As we know, in Ohio, our weather is often unpredictable. We may have a 70-degree day in February, followed by 2 feet of snow in March. While you can’t control the weather, you can control the condition of your hot tub and protect it, regardless what Mother Nature serves us with. You should keep your hot tub protected all year with a year-round hot tub cover that is suited for Ohio weather.
Whether you are on the market for a new hot tub, just purchased one, or have noticed your current hot tub cover looks a little rough, it’s time for you to find a hot tub cover that is right for you, year-round. Most new hot tubs come with a cover; however, you may decide to upgrade.
A hot tub cover may seem like a rather simple purchase (if it fits your spa), but there’s a lot more you should take into consideration when seeking to buy a cover, especially for outdoor, year-round use in Ohio. The most important thing that your hot tub cover does is keep your spa and investment protected, extending its longevity, while also insulating your hot tub and trapping the heat and moisture under the cover.
Below, we have provided some tips for things you should consider when purchasing a year-round hot tub cover for your Ohio spa.
Insulating Spa Blankets
No one wants to get into their hot tub, expecting warm water, only to find that the warmth has leaked, and the water is not to their desired temperature. The first line of defense against escaping heat, is an insulating spa blanket. Insulating spa blankets decrease evaporation by up to 95%, which reduces heat loss.
An insulating spa blanket is an insulating, floating blanket that lies on top of your hot tub water, between the water and your hot tub cover. Spa insulating blankets cut down on evaporation, making them an energy saver and protecting your hot tub cover. While an insulating spa blanket is not a hot tub cover, it is an important part to the covering process in Ohio. Spa blankets protect the underside of your hard spa cover from moisture and mildew damage, all while keeping the heat and humidity inside.
Understanding the R-Value
Ohio is a cold weather winter region, so it’s essential to have a spa cover with a higher foam weight and foam density to improve the cover’s R-value. R-value is the capacity of insulating material to resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power. A hot tub cover with a larger R-value number means it has better insulating properties that will enhance the heat retention in your hot tub, thus saving you money in energy costs. A hot tub cover with a low R-value will allow heat to escape, and your spa heater will work overtime to keep up with the heat loss. This could not only lead to a cooler hot tub, but to hot tub repairs or replacement.
R-value climbs in several ways for hot tub covers. To find a cover with a higher R-value, look for one with thick foam core panels, a high weight of marine vinyl used, vapor barriers around the foam core, secure zippers and stitching, and a skirt length and hinge seals that help prevent heat loss. Let’s break this down:
- High-density foam core: Foam density is the weight of foam per cubic foot and provides insulation to your hot tub. A higher foam density means greater insulation. Experts suggest a density of a 1.5 to 2 pounds, especially if you’re living in a colder climate.
- Weight of the vinyl covering: A higher weight per square yard indicates a stronger vinyl. A high-quality hot tub cover is encased with a durable marine-grade vinyl and treated to withstand the sun, rain, snow, dirt, chemicals, UV rays and extreme temperatures that impend the safety of your hot tub.
- Hinge heat seal: Note how the two halves of the hot tub cover meet. The outer edge of each side of the cover hinge should be sealed to prevent heat loss. Preferably, the hinge heat seal should have an R-value of 12 to 13.
- Cost is key: To put it simply, avoid cheap hot tub covers. Inexpensive or cheaply made hot tub covers are more likely to fall apart and can result in a less energy-efficient hot tub.
Hot Tub Cover Lift
Hot tub covers can be bulky and difficult to open. A hot tub cover lift helps you remove or attach your hot tub cover with ease. With the Ohio winter snow, having a hot tub cover lift may be the difference between you being able to enjoy your spa this winter or not. There are different hot tub cover lifts for you to chose from, the most important thing, is having one in Ohio, so you can enjoy your hot tub year-round.
At Litehouse Pools & Spas, our professionals can help you with your year-round hot tub needs. Whether you are looking to purchase a new hot tub, seeking an insulating spa blanket, in search of a hot tub cover or lift, or would like year-round hot tub service, Litehouse Pools & Spas can help.
Visit us in person, online, or give us a call today, to allow us to help you protect your Ohio hot tub year-round.