What To Consider Before Installing a Spa Pool Cover Lifter

Installing a spa pool cover lifter can make using your spa much easier, but there are essential aspects to consider before you begin.

In this article, we'll cover the key questions you should ask to ensure you choose the right cover lifter and install it correctly.

Key Takeaways

• Simplifies Access: A cover lifter makes spa access easy.
• Protect your investment: A cover lifter keeps your cover off the ground, prolonging its life
• Space Needed: Allow 20 cm on the sides and 60 cm at the back.
• Mounting Choice: Mount at the back for best access and maintenance.
• Choose the Right Type: Options include manual, hydraulic, shelf-style, and automatic lifters.

What Is a Spa Cover Lifter, and Do I Need One?

A cover lifter is a device that makes it easier to open and close your spa cover. It acts like a lever, letting you lift and fold the cover with minimal effort. Here are the main benefits:

• Ease of Use: Lifting a heavy cover is much easier with a lifter, making your spa more accessible.
• Cover Protection: By lifting evenly, it prevents dragging or damage, helping extend the cover’s lifespan.
• Space-Saving: It neatly holds the cover to the side or back of the spa, which is great in smaller spaces.

To learn more about spa cover lifters, please read our detailed article below.

How Much Space Is Needed for a Cover Lifter?

The space available around your spa is a primary factor when choosing a cover lifter. Cover lifters generally need extra clearance behind or to the sides of the spa to operate smoothly.

You’ll need to allow some room for the cover lifter, as the metal bracing will stick out from the spa, so allow a minimum of 20cm on each side of your spa and around 60cm at the back for the cover to rest on, will give you plenty of space.

Important Considerations:

• Measure Carefully: Measure the area around your spa to determine the exact space available.
• Location of the Spa: Consider whether your spa is against a wall, in a corner, or in an open area. Each setup may require a specific type of lifter.

Read our detailed article below to get tips on how to choose the perfect spot for your spa.

Which Side Should the Spa Cover Be Mounted On?

The spa cover can technically be mounted on any side based on your preferences for opening and closing direction. However, it’s important to follow these considerations:

• Mount at the Back of the Spa. It is best to mount the cover lifter so that it lifts up from the back of the spa and the cover stacks at the back of the spa. The back of the spa is the side opposite of the keypad.
• Your view. Consider where you want the view to be as the cover lifter will most likely block out some, if not all of your view on the side where it stacks.
• Design-Specific Fit on Certain Models. Some spa models, particularly selected Jacuzzi^® Spa models, are slightly raised at the back and have a unique corner radius, making it necessary to position the cover a certain way. This design ensures a proper fit and secures the cover more effectively. With other models you might want to consider the seating configuration and where you are most likely going to enter the spa from so the stacked cover is not in your way.
• Unobstructed Access to the Touchpad. Most spas have their control touchpad located at the front. By mounting the cover lifter at the back, you prevent the cover from obstructing the touchpad when it’s lifted. This setup makes it easy to adjust settings while the spa is in use.
• Easy Maintenance Access. For models like Jacuzzi^® Spas, the maintenance access panel is typically located at the front. Mounting the cover at the back allows you to remove the access panel for servicing without needing to uninstall or maneuver around the cover lifter, making maintenance quicker and hassle-free.

Choosing the correct mounting side for your spa cover lifter improves your view and convenience and ensures that you retain easy access to essential controls and service panels.

What Types of Spa Pool Cover Lifters Are Available?

Cover lifters come in various types, each designed for specific needs and spaces. Understanding the different types can help you decide which is best suited for your spa pool.

• Manual Lift: These are cost-effective and straightforward but may require a bit of strength.
• Hydraulic Lift: Aided by hydraulic arms, like those found on car trunks, these lifters make lifting the cover nearly effortless, perfect for heavy covers or people with limited mobility. However, they can be more prone to failure over time.
• Shelf-Style Lift: These lifters slide the cover onto a shelf behind the spa, which might require additional space and effort.
• Cabinet-Free Cover Lifter: Ideal for spas without synthetic cabinets, this lifter is versatile for various spa designs making it perfect for above-ground or uniquely shaped spas.
• Basket Lifter: Designed with a basket or cradle structure, this lifter provides support while removing the cover and drops the cover down out of the view further than other lifter types.
• Automatic Lift: With motorised assistance, automatic lifters offer hands-free convenience, making cover removal as simple as pressing a button. Most automatic cover lifters are designed specifically for swim spas, as these larger covers benefit greatly from motorised assistance due to their size and weight.