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why do hot tub covers get heavy

by Jane Hoeger Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The simple answer is that the hot tub cover foam core becomes waterlogged over time. This water soaks the core and is what is responsible for most of the weight. When this happens, you hot tub cover will become very heavy and your cover will no longer be as effective at protecting your hot tub from the elements.

Full Answer

What happens if you put too much weight on a hot tub?

– Damage to the hot tub cover lifter – Some hot tubs come equipped with hot tub cover lifters to help you remove the cover when you are ready to use your hot tub. If the cover becomes too heavy, this lifter can break or be damaged under the stress of the extra weight.

How do hot tub covers get damaged?

The most common way hot tub covers get damaged is through punctures or deterioration of the vinyl covering – the ‘skin’ or the foam’s protective vapour barrier bag/covering, which serve to prevent moisture from entering the high-density foam.

Why do my hot tub covers smell bad?

Problems with hot tub covers start when steam from the hot tub finds a way into the high-density foam core. Whilst it is steam it can find it’s way through the smallest of openings but, as it cools it is unable to escape and condenses into water. Gradually this water fills the air pockets in the foam core.

Why do I need a hot tub cover?

A hot tub cover’s primary function is to keep dirt and debris out of the hot tub but even more importantly to keep heat in. As we all know warm air rises and so all of the heat generated by your hot tub will rise to the top of the water and, without the hot tub cover in place, it will simply escape into the atmosphere.

How does steam get into a hot tub?

Why do you need a hot tub cover?

How many foam cores are there in a hot tub?

Why is my hot tub cover so heavy?

How much does a hot tub cover weigh?

How many people do you need to take off a hot tub cover?

How to keep mold from growing in hot tub?

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How do you keep a hot tub cover from getting heavy?

Rescuing Your Cover If you notice heaviness early. Remove the foam inserts from within the outer skin and allow them to sun in a place that also allows them to receive a breeze. This will allow the foam to dry out, hopefully before mold and mildew start to form.

How long does a hot tub cover last?

–7 yearsHow long does a hot tub cover last? On average, a hot tub or swim spa cover will need to be replaced every 5–7 years. While some covers are built to last much longer than others, any object that is subjected to the elements will eventually show signs of wear.

How much do hot tub covers weigh?

Although hot tub covers typically weigh about 50 to 70 pounds, their size and shape can make it cumbersome for one person to lift alone. Hot tub cover lifters facilitate the process, pivots to make it easy for one person to lift the spa cover alone.

Is it better to leave hot tub cover on or off?

Energy Efficiency An uncovered (or minimally covered) tub is going to use a lot of unnecessary energy to try and keep the water at the typical 104 degrees. You will save yourself money and avoid long heating times if you get a traditional hot tub cover.

How much does a new hot tub cover cost?

A hot tub replacement cover may range from $350- $500*, depending on what type of hot tub model you have. A sturdy Caldera Spas cover is designed specifically with your spa in mind and is designed for maximum energy-efficiency.

Can I stand on my hot tub cover?

But despite its good build, hot tub covers need maintenance to ensure long-term quality. There are some covers out there that claim “walk-on” durability. But the truth is, you should never walk or sit on your hot tub cover — no matter how much weight the manufacturer claims it will support.

Are spa cover lifters worth it?

Absolutely, yes.” Here's why: A good hot tub cover lifter is the key to extending the life of your cover and making your spa easier to use for the entire family. In addition to protecting your spa, a hot tub cover lifter also protects your back. Extend the life of your spa with a hot tub cover lifter.

How strong is a hot tub cover?

Even though hot tub covers are designed to protect your spa, most are not capable of holding more than a few pounds. However, there are specially designed covers that can support up to 1,000 lbs, often called walk-on spa covers.

Can you dry out a water logged hot tub cover?

Yes, a waterlogged hot tub cover can be dried out. First, remove the foam inserts and allow them to dry fully, cleaning them if necessary. Then allow the vinyl cover to fully dry out. Lastly, any tears or holes in the vinyl need to be patched to prevent water from entering the cover again.

How often should you open your hot tub cover?

Take the cover completely off the hot tub, if you can, and wipe down the entire cover, focusing more time on the black or dark spots you see. I even recommend unzipping the cover's skin, removing the foam inserts, and wiping everything down, like the way you should every two years, but this time, with the bleach.

Does a hot tub use a lot of electricity?

A larger tub will require more power to heat and to move a larger body of water, and to operate more jets. This will be reflected on your electricity bill. Usage - Using your hot tub 3-4 hours a week could mean an extra 100-120 Kilowatts on average.

Should you keep hot tub running all the time?

One of the most common questions our team gets asked is "should I leave my hot tub on all the time?" Quite simply, the answer is yes... your hot tub is designed to be left switched on constantly and works best when it is left on all the time. Your hot tub is at it's most efficient if left to run 24/7.

How often should you replace hot tub covers?

around 4-5 yearsWhen Should I Replace My Hot Tub Cover? In general, hot tub covers have a lifespan of around 4-5 years. UV radiation from the sun, falling debris (like tree branches or ice), and user inflicted damage can all drastically reduce this lifespan however.

Do hot tub covers get waterlogged?

Over time, a worn hot tub cover can become waterlogged. This happens when tears in the vinyl cover allow water to get in. Sure you can just buy a new one.

What can I do with an old hot tub cover?

Hot Tub Cover Material Reuse: Use the metal for tomato plant stakes. The foam can be used as filler under ice rinks in the winter. Use the vinyl as a cover for your grill and other outdoor furnishings.

How long should a spa pool cover last?

A good spa cover is essential for your spa pool to lock in heat and protect children. Modern covers made from high quality, UV resistant, marine-grade vinyl may need replacing within 5-7 years, but will likely last much longer.

Why Do Hot Tub Covers Get Heavy?

Hot tub covers become heavy when they become waterlogged. While hot tub cover foam is covered in a plastic vapour barrier to prevent water absorption, this isn't a perfect solution. Over time, the vapour barrier will either get punctured or simply deteriorate on its own.

What's Bad About Having A Waterlogged Hot Tub Cover?

Foam insulation works by trapping warm air within the bubbles of the foam. Waterlogged hot tub covers are a problem for one simple reason, water is a terrible insulator.

How To Fix A Heavy Hot Tub Cover

To fix a waterlogged hot tub cover you need to dry out the foam. While this may sound easy, the reality is often different. Depending on how waterlogged the hot tub cover is, drying out the foam can take multiple days, making this impractical in cool weather and impossible in the winter.

How To Prevent A Heavy Hot Tub Cover

While you can never really prevent a hot tub cover from becoming waterlogged, you can slow down this process greatly by buying a cover with a thick vapour barrier.

Wrapping Up

Eventually, every hot tub cover will get waterlogged and need to be replaced. If your hot tub cover became waterlogged due to a pierce in the vapour barrier, you may be able to fix it by drying the foam out and repairing the hole in the vapour barrier, otherwise, you are likely better off simply buying a new hot tub cover.

How much does a hot tub cover weigh?

A good hot tub cover will normally weigh around 50 – 75 pounds depending on their size. At this weight you should be able to lift it relatively easily.#N#If you notice you are having difficulty lifting it or you need more than one person to help you, it is time to address the problem.

Do you realize your hot tub cover is heavy?

In many cases, hot tub owners simply aren’t aware that they have a problem and often don’t ever realize their hot tub cover is getting heavy until it’s too late.

How Long Do Hot Tub Covers Last ?

Most original spa covers that you get with a new hot tub have a life of about 2 years. Only a high-quality cover should be able to last for at least 5 to 8 years. You have to make sure to reduce the time your cover spends being exposed to the elements such as UV from the sun and rain. In that case, it will not last as long as the hot tub itself.

Can You Only Replace The Foam In A Hot Tub Cover And Not The Whole Cover?

Yes. The cost of the foam itself is about 60-70% of the new cover. That means you will save about 30-40% if you decide to replace the foam and not the whole cover.

How to remove foam core from spa?

Remove the spa cover. Carefully unzip the vinyl “skin” and remove each piece of the foam core. Place or lay the foam in a sunny part of your garden to allow air to circulate underneath. Turn the vinyl skin over and dry the inside of the skin with a towel. Also place it in a sunny spot.

Why does my hot tub cover break?

You may not notice it since it takes a long time but once the cover cracks water will slowly start to penetrate into the foam core. Eventually, it will lead to making your hot tub cover waterlogged and super heavy.

What is the purpose of a vapor barrier?

The vapor barrier is the plastic that is wrapped around the foam inside the cover. Its main purpose is to protect the foam from absorbing the water. Once this the vapor barrier is compromised the foam inside the hot tub cover will start to absorb the water, and you will notice that your cover is starting to get heavy.

Why is my hot tub deteriorating?

After the winter season, it’s time for a deep clean, whether you’ve used your hot tub or not. One of the most common causes of a deteriorating vinyl cover, besides the elements, is the use of the wrong cleaner. Look specifically for something made for vinyl care and avoid anything that contains alcohol, bleach, detergent, washing-up liquid, and oil.

How long should you keep a hot tub cover off?

There is also a recommendation to try to keep the cover off, weather permitting, for about an hour to two after you add chemicals to the hot tub.

Why is my hot tub cover so heavy?

The main reason why the cover gets heavier with time is that the foam core becomes waterlogged. The water that’s being soaked into the core makes the cover heavy. And once that occurs the cover becomes not effective at protecting your hot tub from the elements. One big reason that causes a cover to become water logged is cracks in your cover.

How much does a hot tub cover weigh?

The first thing you need to know is that a ‘healthy’ hot tub cover normally weighs between 50 to 75 pounds (the range is based on the size of the hot tub you own – the bigger the hot tub the heavier the cover).

Why is my foam cover water logged?

One big reason that causes a cover to become water logged is cracks in your cover. Sitting or placing heavy objects on the cover is a big no-no because it can cause the cover to break. You may not notice it but once the cover cracks water will slowly start to penetrate into the foam core. Another cause of water logged foam is poor water chemistry.

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How to repair a vinyl vapour barrier?

Turn the vinyl cover inside out and towel the inside of the cover dry. Lay it in a sunny spot as well. Spray the inside of your vinyl cover and each surface of the foam pieces with a mildew inhibitor and let them dry. Turn the cover right-side-out, insert your foam pieces back in and zip it closed. If a tear should occur in the vapour barrier cover/bag, you can purchase new bags.

How do hot tub covers get damaged?

The most common way hot tub covers get damaged is through punctures or deterioration of the vinyl covering – the ‘skin’ or the foam’s protective vapour barrier bag/covering, which serve to prevent moisture from entering the high-density foam.

How to tell if hot tub cover is waterlogged?

If you notice that your hot tub cover is heavier than usual and appears waterlogged, remove it from the top of your hot tub and inspect it for rips or tears in the vinyl covering or vapour barrier.

What to do when hot tub cover gets waterlogged?

What to do when your hot tub cover gets waterlogged. niagarahottubs. There’s no way to completely prevent condensation from collecting inside your cover, but annual cleaning and maintenance can extend the life of your hot tub cover, and hopefully prevent waterlogging.

What happens if you don't cover a hot tub?

Although there’s many things you can do to prevent waterlogging, it can still creep up on you and affect your hot tub experience.

Can a waterlogged hot tub cover be replaced?

Replace your cover! Although this isn’t the ideal situation, your cover will eventually become a hassle if it’s past repair. Not only does a waterlogged hot tub cover result in loss of spa heat, but the weight my cause damage to your cover lifters.

Can you air dry foam core?

Before you resort to replacing it, air-drying the foam core may be the solution. Care and caution need to be taken when doing this, but rest assured, it is possible!

How To Fix A Heavy Spa Cover?

Unfortunately the only fix is to replace the cover. While it is possible (in theory) to order replace foam inserts, the amount of money that this saves you is very small, if anything, over the cost of a brand new cover. A sagging hot tub cover is sagging under the weight of the water it has absorbed. This is a structural failure of the product which can not be fixed. Even if you were to do something like re-support the cover with wood or something else, it is important to understand that once insulation gets wet it loses all of its insulating abilities. This is why if you have a leak in your roof and your insulation gets wet you will need to replace it.

Why do hot tub covers crack?

Another big killer of hot tub covers comes from people (usually kids) climbing and jumping on the cover. This can result in cracking the foam, which similar to cutting, opens the cellular structure of the product. Any deficiency in the foam, cuts in the foam, or cuts in the protective plastic or mylovac layer, will result in advanced water ...

What is vapor barrier?

The vapor barrier is the plastic that is wrapped around the foam inside the cover and protects the foam from absorbing water. When the vapor barrier is compromised the foam will start absorbing water, and you will notice your cover getting heavier and heavier. Over a period of time, sometime quickly, sometimes slowly, ...

Can a cover get waterlogged?

That is such a great question and in fact, the vast majority of covers will fail from getting waterlogged eventually. We do hear that quite frequently here at the Pros. To help avoid the cover from getting waterlogged, you can make sure that the new cover you order has an upgraded vapor barrier. Upgrade to the best one you can find.

How does steam get into a hot tub?

Often the steam gets in through damage to either the vinyl outer covering or through a worn out or damaged vapor barrier. To a certain extent, all hot tub covers will eventually succumb to becoming waterlogged but the whole process can be significantly speeded up if there is an easy way into the foam core for the steam to get in to. In theory better quality hot tub covers should last longer as the quality of the vinyl and vapor barriers is higher and they will withstand the onslaught of steam for longer.

Why do you need a hot tub cover?

A hot tub cover’s primary function is to keep dirt and debris out of the hot tub but even more importantly to keep heat in. As we all know warm air rises and so all of the heat generated by your hot tub will rise to the top of the water and, without the hot tub cover in place, it will simply escape into the atmosphere.

How many foam cores are there in a hot tub?

There are usually two foam cores in a hot tub cover often with a hinge between them to ais easy removal. They also will have a slope on them so that rainwater will run off them. The cores themselves are tightly surrounded by a waterproof vapor barrier which is intended to prevent moisture from seeping in and the whole thing is then supported in a vinyl outer cover.

Why is my hot tub cover so heavy?

So, why is my hot tub cover so heavy? Hot tub covers become increasingly heavy over time as their foam cores soak up moisture. The moisture cannot escape and the resulting trapped water is what is so heavy. Good maintenance can help reduce the problem and some foam cores can be dried out if they get too heavy.

How much does a hot tub cover weigh?

A hot tub cover in good condition that hasn’t started to take on water and become saturated should weigh somewhere between 50 and 75lb.

How many people do you need to take off a hot tub cover?

This does take a bit of effort and planning as it may well need two people to get the cover off and also relies on good weather. However, if you do this throughout the life of the hot tub cover you should be rewarded with longer service.

How to keep mold from growing in hot tub?

Dry the cover regularly If you take the cover completely off the hot tub each week and leave it out in the sun to completely dry for a few hours this can prevent moisture build-up. It will also help to prevent the build-up of bacteria and mold in the hot tub cover.

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