The spa: what is the best cover according to the season?
With its warm water and whirlpools, a hot tub is perfect for a moment of relaxation. However, if it is placed outside, how do you cover it for both the summer and winter? Discover the different types of hot tub covers and our recommendations for good protection, regardless of the season.
UV rays, debris, safety, etc.: what type of protection to cover a spa?
Entry-level spa covers will above all help you maintain the cleanliness of the water, but more upmarket models will also provide thermal protection and an element of safety.
The spa cover
A tarpaulin is the most basic type of protection. Above all, it simplifies cleaning by protecting the water from debris and dirt. Nylon or polyester covers will also add a barrier against solar rays.
This is the least expensive type of protection and is very easy to use, but the benefits are rather limited. It may be sufficient in summer. However, you should bear in mind that a spa cover is not a safety device.
The flexible thermal cover
As its name implies, a thermal cover preserves the temperature of the water. It also protects the tank from leaves and other debris to facilitate cleaning.
Easy to handle, it helps cut down on energy costs but will not protect the spa from heavy weather. When completed by an enclosure, it will be useful in winter or mid-season.
The rigid thermal cover
Whether automatic or manual, a rigid cover is the most effective way of protecting a spa. It offers you both thermal insulation, protection against debris, and safety.
Useful in any season, this type of all-in-one cover will enable you to enjoy your spa longer while reducing maintenance.
The winter cover
Designed to stay continuously in place for several months and protect your spa from harsh winter weather, this cover will only be useful if you decide to winterise your tank and not use it at all during the entire cold season.
The total cover
This full protection covers the entire spa structure. You can use it in any season during a prolonged absence. It will also serve to cover your spa during the winter period.
Inflatable spa protection
The simplest way to protect an inflatable spa is to use a cover. Be careful to choose a model that is compatible with the hot tub.
A spa enclosure: additional protection
You can complete your hot tub cover with an enclosure such as a dome, a pergola or even a gazebo. These installations must be sufficiently resistant to protect the tub from rain, wind and exposure to UV rays. It will also help you create a dedicated space for your hot tub by providing an intimate and aesthetic element, especially with a wooden structure.
The models that provide total closure, with locked access, offer a real benefit in terms of safety, in addition to maintaining warm water and creating a pleasant ambient temperature, especially in winter.
How can you protect your spa in winter?
To continue using your hot tub free of care during the winter season, you should ensure its proper operation through rigorous maintenance.
- Frequently check that the water level is sufficient.
- Change the water regularly and drain it at the beginning of the season.
- Use a thick or rigid thermal cover that will properly protect the tub.
If you decide not to use your hot tub during the winter, you can winterise it. Remember to empty and clean the tank and drain all the equipment to eliminate any water that could freeze.
How can you protect your spa from the summer sun?
When temperatures rise, you should also pay particular attention to your hot tub. Ideally, it should not be situated in full sunshine. A hot tub placed in the shade, under an arbour or a pergola, or in an enclosure like a dome, will be well protected from solar rays.
The risk is that the water will spoil and its quality will decrease. Increase filtration up to 12 hours per day during heat waves to prevent it from stagnating. Also stop the heating and remove the tarpaulin for several hours before use to enable the heat to evaporate. Lastly, don't hesitate to renew the water in case of prolonged absence or high temperatures.
In order to choose the ideal cover for your hot tub, you should start by assessing your needs. Do you want to facilitate cleaning while preventing debris from falling into the water? Preserve the water temperature to reduce the need for heating? Benefit from a safety system to prevent accidents, especially with young children? You should also take into account your usage, and in particular whether your hot tub is to continue running in winter. Finally, a cover won't do everything: good maintenance will also enable you to get the most enjoyment, and for longer, out of your hot tub.
