A hot tub cover is a critical piece of equipment for any hot tub owner, and caring for it should be a regular part of your hot tub maintenance routine. The cover protects your hot tub from unwanted debris, harsh weather conditions, and backyard animals. It also helps you save on energy costs by keeping the heat inside your hot tub when you're not soaking in it.
Hot tub covers are a significant investment in your overall hot tub maintenance budget, which is why it's essential to take the appropriate measures to care for your cover and extend its lifespan. If you neglect your hot tub cover, it will most likely deteriorate and lose its effectiveness quickly.
The Basics of Hot Tub Cover Maintenance
Maintaining your hot tub cover requires only minimal effort in your overall hot tub maintenance routine. The key steps include:
- Cleaning the Cover: Regularly rinse, wipe down, and condition your cover to remove dust, debris, and protect the vinyl from UV damage.
- Inspecting for Damage: Look for rips, tears, and issues with the vapor barrier to address them before they worsen.
- Leaving the Lid Off: Allow the warm, humid air and chemical vapors to dissipate by leaving the cover off for at least an hour per week.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your hot tub cover in top condition and ensure it continues to be efficient and effective.
Cleaning Your Hot Tub Cover
The first step in maintaining your hot tub cover is to remove any debris, such as leaves, branches, snow, and ice, as soon as possible. Then, rinse the cover with a garden hose, wipe it down with a cleaner specifically designed for hot tub covers, and apply a protectant to help resist dirt and UV damage.
Don't forget to clean the underside of the cover as well. Wipe it down with a 10% bleach solution (1 part bleach, 9 parts water) to prevent mildew buildup.
Inspecting Your Hot Tub Cover
Regularly inspect your hot tub cover for any rips, tears, or issues with the vapor barrier. These problems can allow water to penetrate the cover and cause further damage. If you find any holes or breaks, you can usually patch them using a vinyl repair kit.
Additionally, once a year or so, you should remove the foam core and thoroughly inspect the plastic moisture barrier. If you find any tears or holes, these can also be repaired to maintain the cover's effectiveness.
Additional Tips for Longer-Lasting Hot Tub Covers
- Avoid sitting or walking on your hot tub cover.
- Stick to your hot tub maintenance plan and don't use more chemicals than necessary.
- Periodically flip the foam inside your cover, like you would a mattress.
- Use a hot tub cover lifter or cover cap to make accessing your tub easier.
- Keep your hot tub cover dry when not in use.
By incorporating these simple steps into your regular hot tub maintenance routine, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your hot tub cover and ensure your investment continues to protect your hot tub for years to come.
