For many, there’s no better season to own a hot tub than the winter. You can take advantage of the soothing warm water and therapeutic massage jets, even soaking as the snow falls.
But with all of its charm, the winter season can bring sub-zero temperatures, snowfall, and overall blustery conditions. And what’s protecting your spa from the conditions? Your hot tub cover.
It’s important to make sure that your hot tub cover remains in great condition, especially in the winter. These tips will help you protect your hot tub cover in the winter and make the most of the season as a spa owner.
Hot tub cover basics
Hot tubs are a fantastic addition to any home, providing a relaxing oasis for unwinding after a long day — even in the winter.
But when you aren’t soaking up those soothing vibes, you want to make sure that your hot tub is covered. A quality cover protects your hot tub and adds to the energy efficiency, among other benefits.
Energy efficiency
Hot tub covers play a crucial role in maintaining the water temperature. By acting as a thermal barrier, they prevent heat loss, reducing the energy required to keep the water warm. This not only saves on electricity costs but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly hot tub experience.
Evaporation
It’s normal for your hot tub water to evaporate. Many owners will find that they have to top off their hot tub every week or so, depending on how often they are using it. But when you have a properly fitting cover on your hot tub, it captures and retains that rising steam. This effective coverage minimizes water loss significantly.
Protection from the elements
Leaves, twigs, and other debris can quickly find their way into your hot tub if left uncovered. These elements not only detract from the hot tub experience but can affect the water quality. The cover allows you to spend more time enjoying your hot tub and less time on cleaning and balancing chemicals.
Extended lifespan
A hot tub cover also contributes to the longevity of the hot tub itself. By protecting it from the elements, the cover helps prevent wear and tear on the hot tub’s interior and exterior components, ensuring a longer lifespan for the overall system.
Tips to protect your hot tub cover in the winter
Master Spas hot tubs are designed to be used year-round, even if you live in an area where you see wintry conditions. The full foam insulation helps to maintain water temperature while protecting many of the components. And the high-density foam cover adds to the energy efficiency, locking in the heat and keeping out the winter elements.
But when winter’s worst arrives, it’s essential to take extra steps to safeguard your hot tub cover. These tips will help you protect your hot tub cover so you can enjoy the benefits of your hot tub year-round, even when the snow is falling and temperatures drop.
Inspect and protect
Your hot tub cover, just like other parts of your hot tub, require some maintenance to keep them in the best condition. Seasonal cleaning, including using a cover care protectant, can help maintain the durability and extend the life of your cover.
It’s especially important to give your hot tub cover a thorough inspection before winter weather arrives. You want to be on the lookout for any visible damage, such as tears or cracks in the material, as the moisture can damage the foam.
If you have a tear in the cover, there are options for repairing it. Addressing any issue in advance will prevent it from escalating during the winter months, ensuring that your hot tub and cover remain in good condition.
Secure straps and locks
While snow and cold temperatures are expected during winter, the intensity of the winds can catch many off guard. High winds can be especially problematic for hot tub owners, potentially causing damage to the cover and even putting your spa at risk.
If you are expecting stronger winds with the next winter storm, you want to take proactive measures to secure your hot tub cover. You want to make sure that the cover’s straps and locks are securely fastened. The locking feature can help prevent your cover from lifting or blowing away.
Keep the cover clear of snow and ice
Snowfall is synonymous with winter, and it can even provide a dreamy backdrop to your winter hot tub sessions. But as a hot tub owner, you want the snow to be on the ground — not on top of your cover.
As you clear the route to your hot tub of snow and ice, you also want to prevent snow from accumulating on top of your cover. This will prevent excessive weight from accumulating on the cover, which can damage the foam. Use a plastic snow shovel or a soft broom to clear off any snow from the cover. Don’t use a sharp object or metal shovel, which can tear or damage the cover.
Ice can be trickier to remove but it’s just as important to clear. But patience will be key when trying to remove ice from your hot tub cover. You want to tap the edges of the cover lightly, being mindful not to damage the cover. Some Master Spas owners suggest trying to use a windshield scraper or the handle of a wooden broom to lift the cover, creating space between it and the acrylic shell.
Another method to remove ice from your hot tub cover is to push it side to side. The goal is to almost shake the ice loose from the cover, allowing you to open it and get in the hot tub.
But you should always be mindful to not use too much force — especially near the hot tub control panel.
Use a hot tub cover cap
If you are not excited about the idea of breaking off ice from your hot tub cover, a hot tub cover cap might be a better alternative.
While Master Spas covers are designed to be used year-round, some hot tub owners choose to cover their entire spa — cover included — ahead of a winter storm. This added layer of protection can prevent snow from accumulating on top of the cover while adding an extra thermal layer, especially when super cold temperatures are expected with the winter storm.
The most basic cover option is a tarp, secured so that it doesn’t blow away. However, there are post-market cover caps for your hot tub. If you are considering this option, be sure that it is compatible with your hot tub.
By following these tips, you can protect your hot tub cover during the winter months and keep your hot tub in excellent condition for years to come. Remember, regular maintenance and care are key to prolonging the lifespan of your hot tub cover and ensuring your enjoyment throughout the winter season.
Buy an all-season hot tub
Are you ready to invest in your well-being and backyard? Master Spas hot tubs can be enjoyed this year and many years to come. You can click here to learn more about the benefits of hydrotherapy. Or, contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about hot tub ownership. Wondering how much a Master Spas hot tub costs? You can request a quote here.