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Every good hot tub needs a good hot tub cover. Why? Hot tub covers are essential for keeping your hot tub looking and performing at its best. Not only do they keep debris out of the water, for hot tub water care, but they also help retain heat, saving you money on energy costs.
But with so many options available, it can be difficult to know which cover is right for you.
In this guide, we'll explore the different things to consider when selecting hot tub covers, including size and shape, color, insulation, and upgrades. We'll also provide a measuring guide to ensure that you get the perfect fit for your hot tub.
Let's take a closer look.
How to Find the Right Hot Tub Cover
Hot tub covers are crucial for maintaining your spa, but purchasing the wrong cover can lead to serious headaches, like high energy bills and weather damage. Before you splurge on a new hot tub cover, be sure to follow these steps.
Step 1: Choose the Right Shape and Size
The first step to purchasing a hot tub cover is to determine the correct size and shape.
While most covers are rectangular, some hot tubs may have square or round shapes. If you have an irregular-shaped hot tub, you may need to have a custom cover made to fit the dimensions exactly.
To find the right cover shape and size for your hot tub, measure the length and width of the tub at its widest point. Be sure to measure the corners as well, as some covers may fit better with rounded or squared corners. Once you have the measurements, you can search for covers that match the dimensions or have custom covers made for an exact fit.
Step 2: Pick a Color
The color of your hot tub cover may not seem important, but it can affect the overall atmosphere of your backyard or outdoor space. Most covers come in neutral colors like gray, brown, or black, but some manufacturers offer brighter shades for a pop of color.
Consider the surroundings of your hot tub when choosing the color of your cover. If your spa is surrounded by trees and greenery, a neutral color may blend in better. But if you have a modern outdoor space on a deck or patio, a bolder color may complement the design.
Step 3: Determine the Best Insulation
The level of insulation you choose for your hot tub cover will impact the energy efficiency and overall cost of owning a hot tub. Covers with more insulation will retain heat better, which means your hot tub will use less electricity to stay warm.
The most common types of insulation are foam and air. Foam insulation is denser and provides better insulation values compared to air insulation. However, air insulation is a great option for those who live in warmer climates or use their hot tub frequently.
When selecting the level of insulation, consider your climate and usage patterns to determine the best value for you. If you live in a colder climate, you'll want a thicker, sturdier hot tub cover with a dense foam core. Thicker foam insulation not only provides better insulation, but it also provides structural support to prevent the cover from collapsing under heavy snow and rain.
Step 4: Don't Forget About Hot Tub Cover Upgrades
When shopping for a new hot tub cover, don't forget about the amenities! Hot tub covers can come with a variety of additional features or upgrades.
Here are some of the most popular upgrades:
- Locking mechanisms - Prevents unauthorized access to your hot tub
- Cover lifts - Allows for easy removal and replacement of your cover. Purchase a spa cover lift here
- UV protection - Protects against sun damage and fading
- Water-resistant coating - Helps prevent water damage to the cover
Consider which upgrades are the most important to you. Maybe you have trouble opening your hot tub cover by yourself. If so, a cover lift is a fantastic choice. Or maybe you just want your hot tub to look its best all year round. Then you'll want to go for added UV protection.
Be sure to talk to one of Watson's knowledgeable pool and spa experts to learn about all the upgrades and extra features available for your spa.
Hot Tub & Spa Cover Measuring Guide
No matter what features your hot tub cover comes with, it won't do much good if it isn't the right size.
Measuring your hot tub or spa for a cover isn't especially difficult, but accuracy is key.
Follow these steps to ensure your new cover fits perfectly:
- Measure the length of your hot tub or spa at its longest point. This should be from the outside edge of one end to the outside edge of the other end.
- Measure the width of your hot tub or spa at its widest point. Again, this should be from the outside edge of one side to the outside edge of the other side.
- Measure the radius of each corner. Using a framing ruler, measure the distance from where the corner starts to curve to where it becomes a flat surface.
Remember to always measure the top of your spa and not your old hot tub cover! Old covers tend to shrink and warp over time, so they may not provide an accurate measurement.
Also see: Signs Your Hot Tub Cover Needs Replaced
If you’re looking for a new hot tub cover for your spa, Watson’s has everything you need.
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When you s- Hot tubs in Cincinnatihop with us, you’ll find an amazing selection and personalized service, along with the guaranteed lowest prices in the USA. We offer all the furniture you need for your outdoor spaces along with tons of pool and spa supplies to make your home stand out. Shop online or stop by your nearest Watson’s location today.
