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Determining a Quality Cover

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Why a Cover is Important
A cover is a requirement for spas due to a variety of reasons. First, without a cover, the spa would lose its ability to retain its heat, resulting in very expensive heating bills. In addition, the cover helps to protect your water from impurities, as well as from evaporation. A spa without a cover is also unsafe. Small children and pets could easily fall into a spa without a cover.

Determining a Quality Cover
The cover is the first thing that will need replacing on your spa, so it is important to look for a quality cover. Most covers look the same, however, it can be hard to determine a quality cover from an imposter. The following list are things to look for when choosing a cover:



1. Density of the Cover. Look for a cover with at least a 1.5 lb foam density. This type of cover is structurally sound with sufficient insulation. The R-Value for these covers is 12.7, which is an excellent, energy-efficient rate for hot tub covers. Some manufacturers use a 1 lb foam density, but it does not provide adequate insulation. There are even covers with 2 lb foam density, however, make sure the cover is not too heavy and cumbersome to handle. We would recommend a cover lifter for most spa installations.


2. Extended Apron. Some covers have a short 2" vinyl flap, or apron, around the perimeter of the cover that barely covers the spa shell. This can result in a loss of heat and moisture. Look for covers that extend at least 4" beyond the spa, covering the shell coping as well as a portion of the spa cabinet. This will keep the heat and moisture in, and help your spa to operate more efficiently.

3. Heat Seal Gasket. Most spa covers are large and fold in half for better maneuverability. However, with extended usage, a crease will begin to form in the area where the cover folds. This crease loses valuable heat and suffers vapor loss. On cold days, you can actually see the heat and moisture escaping! To correct this, look for covers that utilize a heat seal gasket at the crease that keeps the heat in and prevents vapor loss.

4. UL and ASTM Listing. Covers that are listed with UL (Underwriters Laboratories) and ASTM (American Society of Testing and Materials) provide many benefits. Covers that are not UL or ASTM listed will often require a fence to be installed around the hot tub for safety. UL and ASTM listed covers have been tested to withstand hundreds of pounds, protecting children and pets from accidentally falling into the spa. UL and ASTM listings ensure that the covers either meet or exceed all of the safety standards set by UL and ASTM, providing peace of mind for the owner.

5. Warranties. Since the cover is the first thing that will need to be replaced on your hot tub, it is important to look for an extensive warranty. Most manufacturers determine the length of coverage by dividing in half the time that they perceive the part to last. Most manufacturers offer only a one year warranty on covers, meaning that it would need replacing within two years. A cover can be a very expensive item to replace, so it is ideal to look for at least a three year warranty.

Related Information:

Hot Tub Cover Care
Hot Tub Covers, Is Your Insulated Enough?

 

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