Noticed that your spa cover is so heavy? In this article, we talk about one of the most common spa cover issues that spa owners face–a heavy spa cover. Read further to know the possible reasons why your spa cover gets heavy and how to fix it.
Spa covers are the one accessory that most spa owners use the most, as they are lifted on and off every time the spa is in use. It’s not surprising that they also tend to be one of the first accessories to encounter problems.
In this article, we'll discuss:
A heavy spa cover is one of the top three spa cover problems that spa owners encounter. While spa covers generally weigh between 15 to 30 kg, the actual weight tends to vary depending on the size and material.
Regardless of the size and weight, however, lifting a spa cover with the help of a spa cover lifter shouldn’t be too difficult. So, why is it that some spa covers become heavier and harder to lift over time?
When your spa cover becomes heavier and harder to lift, this is usually a sign that your spa cover is waterlogged.
This means that the foam core–the main component of your spa cover which functions as an insulator–is no longer sufficiently protected by its moisture protectors/barriers and is now soaking up water.
Keep reading to learn more.
When your spa water is too acidic, it can eat away at the protective outer materials on your cover. When this happens, moisture will penetrate into the foam core which will cause it to become heavier over time.
To prevent this, make sure to keep your spa water’s pH and alkalinity levels balanced. Learn more about spa water chemistry below.
When your spa cover is constantly exposed to dirt and grime, your spa cover’s vinyl may wear much more quickly. This will lead to the cover losing its waterproofing properties that much quicker which will allow moisture to seep into your foam core.
You can avoid this problem, by regularly cleaning your spa cover and using a cover protectant to help the vinyl maintain its water resistance.
If your vinyl has holes and rips in them, you will also likely have a compromised foam core. Punctures on your cover’s vinyl may be caused by different things, such as falling materials on top of the vinyl or general wear and tear. This can cause moisture to begin to be absorbed by the foam core in your cover.
Damaged underside of spa cover - holes like this should be patched immediately
Tear in vinyl outer. These should be repaired immediately to prevent moisture intrusion
For small tears and punctures, you can use a product like the J-B Weld LeatherWeld leather and vinyl repair kit.
When your spa cover loses its structural integrity, it can sag and water can pool on top. When this happens, water will eventually seep into the foam core and make the spa cover heavier.
Damaged foam core
Sagging spa cover with damaged internal structure and water pooling on top
A new spa cover with the internal structure intact - allowing water to run off the top.
When your spa cover becomes waterlogged, there isn’t much that you can do to fix it. A wet foam core is not doing its job of protecting and insulating your spa. Instead, it can even cause more problems because the moisture in the foam is a breeding ground for bacteria and mould.
Over time, this can lead to unpleasant smells and decay.
When this happens, you can only buy a new one to replace your spa cover.
If you are at this point, it’s better to get a replacement as soon as possible to prevent surging power consumption or damaging your spa.
Prevention is better than cure. This saying does not only apply to your health, but also to the general well-being of your spa cover. Take note of a few practices that can prevent your spa cover from being heavy or waterlogged below.
Learn more about spa water care in the article below.
When not in use, we recommend keeping your spa cover on to prevent heat from escaping. This helps your spa retain heat for longer and will do wonders for reducing your spa running costs.
Click the button below to learn more about how spa covers reduce spa running costs.
Keeping your spa uncovered for extended periods is bad for your spa. Particularly for outdoor spas, you are likely to catch passing insects, leaves and twigs, and other debris in your spa when it is uncovered. This will make your spa that much harder to clean and maintain.
Even if your spa is located indoors, it is still important to keep it covered to prevent heat and steam from escaping. Your spa cover provides great insulation for your spa which will help lower your electricity and water consumption.
At the same time, a spa cover provides a safety feature for your spa. If you have pets or young kids at home, leaving your spa uncovered may put them at risk of falling or climbing into the water. Having a spa cover will provide added security so you don’t have to constantly supervise your pets or kids.
We do still suggest you set up a lockable gate and fences as an extra security measure to keep children and pets out.
It is possible to stand on a spa cover, but please don’t. While spa covers are made of high-quality materials and can hold up a pile of snow easily, they may not be able to hold the weight of a person.
At the same time, standing on your spa cover may compromise its structural integrity. You may break it completely or damage internal components.
You can also break yourself if you fall down from on top of it.
Yes, you should leave the cover on your spa when you’re warming it up. This will allow your spa heater or heat pump to work more efficiently and quickly. A decent spa cover will keep your spa insulated so you can enjoy your spa faster.
As a general rule of thumb, you should remove your spa cover each time you:
Learn how to care for your spa cover by clicking the button below.
Talk to us on live chat, or email us your spa questions and we'll be happy to help!
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