Hot tub covers are designed to protect your hot tub from debris, as well as retain heat during cold weather. Just like any piece of hot tub equipment, these covers can become worn out and damaged over time. If you’re unsure whether or not your hot tub cover needs replacing, you have come to the right place. Today, we’ll dive into the 8 signs that you should replace your hot tub cover.
Common indicators a hot tub cover needs replacing include the following signs:
- The cover is sagging
- The hot tub cover is waterlogged
- Vinyl appears damaged
- The water is cloudy or bad-smelling
- The cover has broken straps or locks
- Running costs increase
- The cover experiences discoloration
- The hot tub cover is old
If you want to learn more about the signs a hot tub cover needs replacing, you have come to the right place. Read on to learn the 8 signs a hot tub cover needs replacing, and how to identify the issue.
1. The Hot Tub Cover Is Sagging in the Middle
A hot tub cover should have a tight fit around your hot tub. If the cover is sagging, particularly in the middle of the tub, it is likely a sign that the cover needs replacing.
Sagging is typically caused by heavy rain and snowfall on the cover. Rather than running off the sides, the water will sit in the middle of the cover, causing it to lose shape. The main issue with sagging is that the cover’s sides may begin to lift. As a result, water and debris can enter the hot tub, and heat will escape. In turn, this can increase hot tub maintenance costs.
If you notice your hot tub cover sagging, be sure to replace it right away. As soon as a cover begins sagging, it will continue to lose shape by the excess weight in the center.
2. The Hot Tub Cover Is Absorbing Water
If your hot tub cover has suddenly become significantly heavy, it is a sign that the cover is absorbing water. In this case, you will likely need to replace the hot tub cover.
The cause for this sudden weight gain in your cover is due to the insulating foam core becoming waterlogged. In addition to becoming extremely difficult to lift, the hot tub cover will lose its ability to insulate the hot tub. As a result, your hot tub may take longer to heat, and your running costs may increase.
When a hot tub cover becomes waterlogged, it is at risk of breaking at the seams. Additionally, waterlogged covers put extra weight on the manual or automatic cover lifter, and consequently may damage the lifter. Therefore, a waterlogged hot tub cover should be replaced as soon as possible.
3. The Vinyl Appears Damaged
Hot tub covers are typically crafted with three materials: a solid foam core, a plastic case surrounding the foam core, and vinyl covers on the exterior. If the vinyl becomes cracked or torn, the entire hot tub is at risk of getting dirty and losing heat.
Because hot tub covers are designed to insulate the hot tub, any rips or tears in the cover can cause the hot tub to release heat. As a result, the running costs will increase, and the water will not feel as hot. Furthermore, a torn cover puts your hot tub at risk of collecting debris and dirt, making your hot tub appear murky and unpleasant.
While it’s possible to repair the vinyl with a vinyl repair kit, it is best to replace the cover once the vinyl becomes damaged. Keeping a torn cover on your hot tub increases maintenance costs and puts your hot tub at risk of permanent damage.
4. The Water Is Cloudy and Bad-Smelling
If your hot tub’s water appears cloudy, even after maintaining proper water chemistry, it is likely a sign that the cover is ripped or sagging. Both a ripped cover and a sagging cover will allow debris to enter the hot tub, either through a hole or through the cover’s sides. Consequently, your hot tub will have a murky appearance and perhaps a foul odor.
Keep in mind that a hot tub may be crystal clear yet still have a bad smell to it. Do not rely on appearance alone to determine if a cover needs replacing. Any unusual odor may indicate the hot tub cover is ripped, even if the water appears clear.
5. The Hot Tub Cover’s Straps and Locks Are Broken
In order for a hot tub cover to work properly, it must completely cover the hot tub. If the straps, locks, or hinges become broken, it is time to replace the old cover.
Broken straps and locks prevent your hot tub cover from being securely attached to the hot tub. This can cause heat to escape, as well as put the cover at risk of breaking during the event of harsh weather. Moreover, broken hinges make hot tub covers difficult to lift, even if your hot tub is equipped with an automatic cover lifter.
Because straps and locks are essential parts of hot tub covers, the cover should be replaced as soon as the straps show signs of damage. Do not attempt to continue using a cover with broken locks or hinges.
6. The Hot Tub’s Running Costs Increase
If you notice a significant increase in running costs, it may be a sign the hot tub cover needs replacing. Oftentimes, a torn hot tub cover will allow heat to escape from the hot tub. As a result, your hot tub will require more energy for longer periods to heat the water.
When determining whether or not a cover needs replacing, first examine the cover’s vinyl. If the vinyl has any rips or tears, it is time to replace the cover. If the vinyl isn’t damaged, but the cover is sagging, it means heat is escaping through the sides. Once again, this is a sign the cover needs replacing.
7. The Hot Tub Cover Is Discolored
As the hot tub cover is exposed to UV rays from the sun, its colors may begin to fade. If your hot tub cover becomes completely discolored, it may be a sign the cover needs replacing.
Although discoloration doesn’t necessarily mean your cover is damaged, it may be a sign your hot tub cover is getting older. Additionally, being exposed to direct sunlight may cause the cover to wear out, leading to other issues such as tearing at the seams.
To prevent major issues from developing, it is best to replace a hot tub cover once it shows signs of fading. Not only will this extend the lifespan of your hot tub, but it improves your hot tub’s appearance.
8. The Hot Tub Cover Is Old
Hot tub covers typically last four to seven years. However, if your hot tub cover is constantly exposed to harsh environments, it may wear out sooner than this. UV rays, falling debris, snow, and heavy rainfall are just a few things that may reduce a hot tub cover’s lifespan.
If your hot tub cover is getting old, it may be time to replace it. Although your cover may appear in top condition, old hot tub covers are at greater risk of tearing and sagging than new ones. Rather than waiting for your cover to show signs of damage, it is best to replace it with a new hot tub cover before issues occur.