Hot tubs can be expensive. Novice hot tub owners often dread opening their energy bills because of how much energy they use. Many times, it’s because they forgot to get a cover or believed it was unnecessary. What many homeowners don’t realize, though, is that having a proper cover can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Keep Heat In, Keep Money Out
Studies show that an uncovered hot tub can lose up to 70% of its heat through radiation and evaporation. As a result, your hot tub has to run a lot longer to make that loss up. If you have a well-maintained cover, most of that heat will stay, and you can see your energy consumption cut in half. Of course, if the cover’s damaged or waterlogged, then you’ll need to get a new cover.
Cover Your Cover to Cut Costs
A good way to keep your cover working longer is to get a floating thermal blanket. This rests on the water and eliminates the air barrier that causes convection. They do cost a little money, but they’ll also give you an additional 25% reduction in heat loss, so they’ll pay for themselves soon enough.
Use Your Cover Correctly
First, always have your spa covered when it’s not in use. Every minute means more heat escaping and more money leaving your wallet. There is one exception, however, and that’s if it’s a sunny day outside. When it’s nice, uncover your hot tub for up to two hours a week. This gives your spa a chance to breathe, which keeps mold and mildew from growing. Also, if you’ve recently treated your hot tub, it will disperse those chemical fumes.
If your cover sags in the middle or gets so heavy that you need two to lift it, your cover is waterlogged and requires replacement. When that happens, make sure that you have the right thickness for your needs, which will depend on the climate, how much you use the cover and how often the spa heats up.
Provide More Protection
Even with a good cover, wind is another fierce adversary. If possible, install windbreaks near your hot tub. Lattice panels and shrubs can help retain a lot of heat in the spa and save you money. You can also build a gazebo with sliding side panels if you’re so inclined.
Not only do covers save money, but a top layer for the cover can save you even more. Make sure you get the right size, shape and thickness to match your spa, and you’ll enjoy every soak without the dread of higher energy bills. When you need replacement spa covers in Vineland, NJ, contact Landi Pool Service.
