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2024

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Categories Spacoversetc

Square Hot Tub Cover Replacement – Signs, Options, and Professional Installation

At Spacoversetc, we understand the importance of a well-functioning hot tub cover in preserving the condition of your spa and providing a safe and enjoyable experience. Over time, hot tub covers may show signs of wear and tear, indicating the need for replacement.

This blog will guide you through recognizing when to replace your square hot tub cover, exploring replacement options, and how professionals can assist in proper installation.

Signs it’s Time for Replacement

Visible Wear and Tear

Inspect your square hot tub cover regularly for indications of damage, such as cracks, tears, or fading. These issues can compromise the cover’s ability to insulate and protect your spa, indicating the need for replacement.

Waterlogging

If your hot tub cover becomes heavy and saturated, it’s a clear sign that the foam core has absorbed water and lost its insulating properties. A waterlogged cover reduces energy efficiency and puts strain on your spa’s components.

Difficulty Opening and Closing

A worn-out cover may become difficult to open and close, requiring more effort and potentially straining or damaging the cover’s hinges and locking mechanisms.

Mold or Mildew Growth

The presence of mold or mildew on your hot tub cover is not only unsightly but also a health hazard. If you notice symptoms of mold or mildew, it’s essential to replace the cover promptly to prevent further contamination. This is especially crucial for owners of custom-made spa covers, as the tailored fit may exacerbate mold growth if left unchecked.

Replacement Options

Standard vs. Custom Covers

When replacing your square hot tub cover, you can choose between standard and custom covers. Standard covers come in pre-defined sizes and shapes, while custom covers are tailored to fit your specific hot tub dimensions for a perfect fit.

Material Selection

Consider the material options for your new hot tub cover, such as vinyl, thermal foam, or fiberglass. Each material offers unique benefits regarding durability, insulation, and weather resistance.

Additional Features

Explore additional features for your new hot tub cover, such as reinforced stitching, UV-resistant coating, or upgraded insulation for enhanced energy efficiency and longevity.

Professional Installation Assistance

Expertise and Experience

Professional installation ensures that your new square hot tub cover is properly fitted and installed for optimal performance and longevity. Experienced mechanics have the ability and expertise to handle the installation process efficiently and effectively.

Customization and Adjustment

Professionals can help customize your new hot tub cover to provide a perfect fit for your spa. They can also make necessary adjustments or modifications to accommodate unique spa features or specifications.

Quality Assurance

Entrusting the installation to professionals can give you peace of mind, as you can be sure that your hot tub cover is installed correctly and securely, minimizing the risk of issues or damage down the line.

Safety Considerations

Professional installation reduces the risk of casualties or injuries during the building process, ensuring the safety of the technicians and your spa.

Ensuring Longevity and Performance!

At Spacoversetc, we’re committed to helping you maintain the integrity and performance of your hot tub with high-quality replacement covers and professional installation services. By identifying the symptoms of wear and tear, exploring replacement options, and seeking professional assistance, you can ensure that your square hot tub cover continues to protect and enhance your spa for years. Schedule a consultation with our team today to discuss your hot tub cover replacement needs and discover the difference professional installation can make.

seo-team 0 comments June 25, 2024
Categories Spacoversetc

The Benefits of Investing in Custom Spa Covers – Elevating Your Spa Experience

At Spacoversetc, we understand that every spa owner desires the best for their oasis of relaxation. That’s why we believe in the undeniable advantages of investing in custom-made spa covers.

Here, we will explore into the unique benefits of custom spa covers, from the perfect fit and enhanced insulation to personalized aesthetics that elevate your spa experience.

Perfect Fit – Tailored Protection for Your Spa

Ensuring a Snug Fit

One of the most significant advantages of custom spa covers is their ability to fit your spa precisely. Unlike standard covers that come in limited sizes and shapes, custom covers are tailor-made to match your spa’s exact dimensions and contours. This perfect fit ensures maximum protection against the elements, preventing debris, leaves, and other contaminants from entering your spa.

Preventing Heat Loss

A snug-fitting custom cover creates a tight seal, minimizing heat loss and maximizing energy efficiency. With a standard cover, gaps or overhangs may allow heat to escape, leading to increased energy costs.

Custom spa covers eliminate these concerns, helping to maintain your spa’s water temperature and reduce heating expenses.

Enhanced Insulation – Keeping Your Spa Warm and Inviting

Optimal Insulation Properties

Custom spa covers are designed with high-quality insulation materials that offer superior thermal efficiency. These materials help to trap heat inside your spa, keeping the water warm and inviting even in the coldest weather. Enhanced insulation lets you enjoy a relaxing soak without worrying about chilly temperatures or excessive energy consumption.

Reducing Energy Costs

Custom spa covers can significantly reduce energy bills over time by minimizing heat loss and reducing the workload on your spa’s heating system. The improved insulation properties ensure your spa is efficient without compromising comfort or performance.

Personalized Aesthetics – Reflecting Your Style and Preferences

Expressing Your Individuality

Another compelling benefit of custom spa covers is the opportunity to personalize the aesthetics to suit your style and preferences. With a broad range of colors, materials, and design options, you can create a cover that completes your outdoor decor and improves the visual appeal of your spa area.

Adding a Personal Touch

Whether you prefer a sleek and modern look or a more rustic charm, custom spa covers allow you to add a personal touch to your outdoor oasis. From embossed logos to custom embroidery, the possibilities are endless when customizing your cover to reflect your unique personality.

Long-Term Value – Investing in Quality and Durability

Ensuring Longevity

While custom spa covers may require a higher initial investment than standard covers, they offer long-term value and durability that justify the cost. Custom covers are crafted from premium materials and built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, providing years of dependable performance and protection for your spa.

Protecting Your Investment

Your spa is an investment in relaxation and well-being and deserves the best protection. Custom spa covers provide peace of mind, knowing your spa is safeguarded against damage, deterioration, and premature wear. By investing in a custom cover, you’re watching your investment and prolonging the lifespan of your spa.

Elevate Your Spa Experience with Custom Spa Covers!

At Spacoversetc, custom spa covers offer unmatched benefits that enhance your spa experience and provide long-term value. From the perfect fit and improved insulation to personalized aesthetics that reflect your style, custom covers elevate your spa to new extremes of luxury and comfort. Explore our selection of custom spa covers today and discover the difference they can make for your outdoor oasis.

seo-team 0 comments June 25, 2024
Categories Spacoversetc

Energy Efficiency and Insulation: Finding the Right Jacuzzi Hot Tub Cover

Investing in a high-quality Jacuzzi cover is one of the best decisions you can make for your spa. It serves as insulation and weather protection for your hot tub in addition to being essential for energy efficiency.

At Spa Covers Etc, we understand the importance of these features, which is why our Jacuzzi hot tub covers are designed to meet and exceed your expectations.

Why Insulation Matters

Proper insulation is essential for maintaining your Jacuzzi’s temperature and reducing energy costs. A well-insulated Jacuzzi hot tub cover ensures the heat stays trapped inside, minimizing the energy needed to keep your spa warm. This results in substantial energy cost reductions, particularly in the winter.

Our Best Seller Jacuzzi cover is designed with energy efficiency in mind. It features 50% more foam than standard spa covers, providing superior insulation. This extra insulation means you can save money on heating costs without sacrificing the ease of removing the cover.

Whether you have a Jacuzzi Hot Tub, Sundance Spa, Cal-Spa, or Dimension One Spa, our covers are direct replacements and are perfect for all climates.

Features of Ideal Jacuzzi cover

Every Ideal Jacuzzi cover from Spa Covers Etc comes with a range of features that ensure maximum efficiency and durability:

  • Tapered Foam Core

Our covers have a tapered foam core, facilitating maximum water run-off. This design prevents water from pooling on the cover, which can lead to waterlogged, heavy covers that are difficult to remove.

  • VPB3000 Vapor Proof Barrier

The VPB3000 Vapor Proof Barrier is a vacuum-sealed foam that prevents moisture from contacting the foam core. This innovative barrier ensures that your cover remains lightweight and efficient for years to come.

  • Marine Grade Vinyl

Each cover is made from 32-ounce marine-grade vinyl treated with UV inhibitors. This treatment prevents the vinyl from fading due to sun exposure, ensuring that your cover looks as good as new for longer.

  • Steel Reinforced Foam Core

Our covers feature a steel-reinforced foam core to prevent sagging. This reinforcement maintains the cover’s shape and structural integrity, providing consistent performance over time.

  • Lockable Tie Downs

Safety is a top priority, which is why our covers come with four lockable tie-downs. These tie-downs prevent children under the age of five from entering the spa, providing peace of mind for families.

  • Dual Purpose Heat Seal Gaskets

Our covers are equipped with dual-purpose heat seal gaskets that prevent heat from escaping. This feature enhances the cover’s insulation capabilities, ensuring that your hot tub remains warm without extra energy expenditure.

  • Three-Year Warranty

We stand behind the quality of our products. Every Ideal Jacuzzi Spa Cover comes with a three-year warranty, giving you confidence in your investment.

Book your Jacuzzi Cover!!

Choosing the right Jacuzzi hot tub cover is crucial for energy efficiency and insulation. At Spa Covers Etc, our Jacuzzi covers are designed to provide superior insulation, reduce energy costs, and offer long-lasting durability.

With features like the tapered foam core, VPB3000 Vapor Proof Barrier, and steel-reinforced foam core, our covers are ideal for any hot tub owner. Invest in a high-quality cover today and enjoy a more efficient, cost-effective spa experience.

seo-team 0 comments June 25, 2024
Categories Spacoversetc

How Safety Spa Covers Prevent Accidents and Injuries – Ensuring Peace of Mind for Spa Owners

At Spacoversetc, we understand that owning a spa is more than just relaxation—it’s about creating a safe, enjoyable environment for you and your loved ones. Safety is important, particularly when it comes to children and pets.

A safety spa cover is one of the most effective ways to ensure your spa remains a safe haven. In this blog, we’ll explore how safety spa covers can significantly lower the risk of casualties and injuries, providing peace of mind for spa owners.

The Importance of Safety Spa Covers

Owning a spa is a luxury that brings joy, relaxation, and many health benefits. However, it also comes with responsibilities concerning safety. Spa covers are crucial in preventing unwanted accidents. They act as a barrier, protecting vulnerable individuals, especially children and pets, from the potential dangers associated with open water.

Preventing Child Accidents

Effective Barrier Against Unsupervised Access

Children are naturally curious and often drawn to water. Unfortunately, this curiosity can lead to dangerous situations if your spa is uncovered. Safety spa covers are designed to be sturdy and secure, preventing children from accessing the spa without adult supervision. Most covers come with locking mechanisms that make it difficult for little hands to remove, ensuring that the spa remains off-limits when adults are not around.

Enhanced Safety Features

Modern safety spa covers have advanced features such as reinforced edges and weight-bearing capabilities. These features ensure that even if a child were to climb onto the cover, it would not give way, thus preventing accidental falls into the water. This added layer of protection is essential for households with young children.

Protecting Pets

Keeping Pets Safe

Pets, like children, are often intrigued by water and can easily fall into an uncovered spa. Safety spa covers provide a reliable barrier preventing pets from accessing the water. The durability and strength of these covers ensure that pets cannot tear or move them, thus preventing accidental drownings.

Relaxation for Pet Owners

For pet owners, understanding that their furry friends are safe from the potential hazards of an open spa brings immense peace of mind. Safety spa covers eliminate the constant worry of monitoring pets around the spa area, allowing owners to enjoy their time without stress. This is especially true for those with in-ground spa covers, which seamlessly blend into the landscape while providing a secure barrier that keeps pets and children safe.

Preventing Unwanted Debris and Contaminants

Maintaining Cleanliness

Safety spa covers do more than protect against accidents; they also keep your spa clean by preventing debris, leaves, and other impurities from entering the water. This reduces maintenance efforts and ensures a healthier, more hygienic spa environment.

Reducing Chemical Use

Safety spa covers can help reduce the chemicals needed to keep the spa clean by removing debris and preserving water quality. This is beneficial for both the environment and the health of those using the spa.

Ensuring Energy Efficiency

Insulation and Heat Retention

Safety spa covers are designed to provide excellent insulation, which helps retain heat and maintain water temperature. This makes the spa more enjoyable, reduces energy consumption, and lowers utility bills. A well-insulated cover ensures your spa is always ready for use without excessive heating.

Environmental Benefits

Safety spa covers contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing energy usage. They also help lower the carbon footprint associated with maintaining a spa, making your relaxation time more eco-friendly.

Long-Term Durability

Investment in Longevity

Investing in a high-quality safety spa cover means investing in your spa’s longevity. These covers are built to withstand various climate situations, from intense sunlight to heavy snowfall, ensuring your spa remains protected year-round. Their durability means they will last longer, providing continuous protection and value over time.

Protecting Spa Components

A sturdy cover protects your spa’s internal components from exposure to the elements, decreasing the risk of damage and the need for costly repairs. This helps extend the lifespan of your spa, providing that it remains a source of joy for years to come.

Peace of Mind with Safety Spa Covers!

At Spacoversetc, we believe that safety should never be compromised. Safety spa covers are:

  • An essential component of responsible spa ownership.
  • Providing a secure barrier that protects children.
  • Pets
  • The spa itself.

By investing in a high-quality safety spa cover, you’re not only enhancing your home’s safety but also ensuring your spa’s longevity and cleanliness.

Connect With Us!

Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s safety, a pet owner looking to protect your furry friends or someone who values peace of mind, a safety spa cover is an invaluable addition to your spa setup.

At Spacoversetc, we offer a range of durable, reliable, and safe spa covers designed to meet your needs. Prioritize safety and enjoy your spa worry-free with our top-notch covers.

seo-team 0 comments June 25, 2024
Categories Spacoversetc

Spa Covers Should Have Tapered (Pitched) Foam Core

SPA COVERS – PITCHED (TAPERED) FOAM VS. FLAT FOAM

The engineering of spa covers.
Made of generic, off the shelf vinyl and a FLAT foam core it didn’t take long, usually after the first decent rain, the owner’s of the covers reported that they have become very heavy (sometimes too heavy to lift). The design allowed water to puddle on top of the cover and water-log.
Flat foam core covers do NOT allow the water to run-off so they cover become heavy. Over time, the weight of the water puddling on the cover will cause the foam core to sag (bow) into the spa, exacerbating the problem ever more because the water begins to wick into the spa cover adding more weight.
Now we have MANY foam core options! But what do they mean?

OUR 4″ X 2″ FOAM CORE

Spa Covers Etc. has been an Independent Authorized Dealer of Ideal™ Spa Covers for over 20 years. Ideal™ Spa Covers practically invented the modern TAPERED foam spa cover. They use a 4″ thick foam core that tapers to 2″ thick. This means that the spa cover is 4″ thick in the center and 2″ at the edge. Like an “A” frame roof that is peaked in the middle, not only does it encourage water (and snow) to run-off, it also adds strength to the design.
The Cover Is Sewn Together…
Even with a full 2″ taper, some water will get inside the spa cover. And when the spa is heated, steam will penetrate the cover through the underside’s stitches. When you remove the spa cover, the steam will cool back into liquid water. Because of this Ideal™ Spa Covers adds a Vapor Proof Barrier VPB3000. Exclusive to the Ideal™ Spa Covers, the VPB3000 is a heavy duty plastic that is vacuumed-sealed around the foam core ensuring that moisture does NOT come in contact with the foam. This eliminates the problem FLAT foams have with retaining water weight.
When water from rain / snow lands on the Ideal™ Spa Covers, due to the 2″ taper, water runs-off quickly. Any water that does penetrate the vinyl simply bypasses the sealed foam core and goes through the drain holes located on the bottom of the spa cover.
NEW – The Ultimate Waterfall Spa Cover 5″ x 2″ 
The ONLY spa cover with Three Inches of taper!
Exclusively @ Spa Covers Etc. https://www.spacoversetc.com/
The “Other Guys” Common Foam Cores:
3.5″ x 2.5″ – only 1″ of taper.
4″ x 2.5″ – only 1.5″ of taper.
Watch Out For The Bigger Is Better Gimmicks!
5″ x 3″ – Yes it has a 2″ taper, BUT it weighs 25% MORE!
6″ x 4″ – This is CRAZY! Same taper BUT 50% more weight!
admin 0 comments April 23, 2024
Categories Spacoversetc

Things to Consider When Purchasing a New Spa Cover

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING A NEW SPA COVER

WHAT SIZE COVER? WHICH FOAM TYPE? DO I NEED TO UPGRADE ANYTHING?

Depending on your climate and the type of spa consider these points when purchasing a new spa cover. Portable spas/ hot tubs come in a variety of sizes and shapes. It is important to have the cover fit properly in order to retain heat and keep debris and moisture out of the spa. Spas that measure 96″ x 96″ or smaller use a typical two-piece design containing two panels sewn together and fold in half. The foam core is 48″ wide x 96″ long. If we put two together we get 96″ x 96″ square. Depending on the size and shape of your spa we will cut/shape the cover to fit your needs.

If the length is longer than 96″it will require a third panel. We refer to this as the three-piece design. We will take the length of the cover in inches and divide that number equally by the number of panels. All three panels will be equal. Two panels sewn together and fold in half. For convenience the third panel attaches with a Velcro flap. If the width of the spa is over 96″ (up to 120″) AND the length is also over 96″ you will need the over-sized three-piece spa cover.We can accommodate the width of a spa up to 120″.  As far as the length of the spa cover is concerned, we add panels until we have the proper length. Basically any size spa!

You will need a tape measure for shapes such as square, round, octagon, hexagon and rectangle to determine the size. For shapes such as oval, stretched octagon and free formed spas (e.g. kidney bean shape) will require a template in order to fit properly.

A carpenter’s square is needed for radius corners (rounded corners).

***Remember to measure the area that you want the cover to rest, NOT the length of the water. The cover sits on the edge of the spa. It does NOT fit into the spa or float on the water. In ground Gunite/ plaster spas should have a minimum of 3″ to 4″ perimeter around the spa for the cover to rest onto.

What foam density?
What is the difference between 1.0# and 2.0# foam?
The density is a measurement of the degree of compactness of the foam inside the spa cover. The density is one of the main things to consider. Density and thickness Do NOT go hand in hand. Just because a cover is thicker does not mean it more dense.

Ideal™ Spa Covers are available in the following:

Standard – 1.0 lbs. foam (4″ x 2″ tapered) R-12 value
The Deluxe – 1.5 lbs foam core (4″ x 2″ Taper R-17 value
Heavy Duty 2.0 lbs. foam (4″ x 2″ tapered) R-19 value
Super Foam 5″ x 3″ R-22 value
Ultimate Waterfall Spa Cover – 1.5 lb foam (5″ x 2″ tapered foam) R-15 value.
The R-Value has to do with the energy efficiency and cost savings of using the spa. Spa covers with higher R values are more energy efficient. If the spa is outdoors or if you live in a colder climate the R-value of the cover is more important than if your spa is indoors.

Tapered Foam
Simply put….water will not run-off a flat cover. The water tends to puddle in the center of the cover causing it to gain weight and wear prematurely. Spa covers made by Ideal™ Spa Covers have two inches of taper for maximum run-off of rainwater and snow melt. In the center they are 4″ thick and taper to 2″. Spa covers of yesteryear were either flat or 3.5″ to 2.5″ with only 1″ of taper 50% less than our spa covers.  Recently (March 2014) Ideal™ Spa Covers released its newest design. The Ultimate Waterfall spa cover. This cover has 3 inches of taper, 50% more than any other spa cover! It is 5″ thick and tapers to 2″. For more information about the Ultimate Waterfall spa cover visit Ultimate Waterfall Spa Cover

Spa covers that are NOT specifically stamped “Meets ASTM Certification”…. are not safety covers. In order for a spa cover to meet this certification the spa cover must submit their spa cover to a lab for independent testing and the cover must meet the standards. The cover must have four(4) locking tie downs with keys. Spa covers are meant to cover the spa Not to be walked on or sat on.

VPB 3000 Vapor Proof Barrier Vs.  the other guys covers.

If the foam is exposed to moisture it will become water-logged! The VPB 3000 completely eliminates this problem. The VPB 3000 is a special proprietary blend of plastics that is wrapped around the foam and vacuumed sealed to protect the foam from steam that will penetrate the stitches when the cover is on a hot spa. Steam that gets into the vinyl stays separated from the foam due to the VPB 3000 and when the steam cools/ turns into water it drains out of the drain holes located under the cover.
Other spa cover companies use a simple polyethylene plastic and tape it shut. The plastic is porous and will allow steam to penetrate into the foam. When the steam cools it becomes water again and is trapped inside the plastic bag forever. Only a vacuum sealed spa cover done by professional machines (not a hand held unit) can guarantee that the cover is be safe.

For more information about spa covers, visit us @ Spa Covers Etc.
admin 0 comments April 23, 2024
Categories Spacoversetc

Spa Covers Frequently Asked Questions

SPA COVERS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

MY OLD SPA COVER FADED AND CRACKED. WHAT CAN I DO IN THE FUTURE TO PROTECT THE NEW SPA COVER? 

If properly maintained, the spa cover shouldn’t crack during the warranty period. Cleaning the cover and regular use of 303 Aerospace Protectant will stop slow fade by 95% over 5 years. Ideal™ Spa Covers feels that 4-6 years is s good life expectancy of a spa cover that has NO maintenance and constant exposure to the sun. Our customers have reported back that they got up to 10 years with monthly cleaning of the spa cover and 303 Aerospace Protectant used every other month.

HOW DO I MEASURE THE SPA COVER?
THE OLD COVER DIDN’T SEEM TO FIT CORRECTLY.

If you know the Make, Model, and Year the spa was made (not purchased), Spa Covers Etc. can use the spa manufacturer’s dimensions and compare those to the dimensions that you get from measuring the spa. Spa Covers Etc. does not provide the dimensions for the customer unless we physically measure the spa. It is not very common, but the spa manufactures have been known to change the dimensions of a model mid-year which can cause a great deal of confusion. Additionally it is very common for customer to keep the brochure for the spa at the time of purchase. The dimensions provided on the brochure usually are rounded off to the nearest inch which can cause the cover to be the wrong size. AND the brochures do not mention the size of the radius corners or cut corners, so you will need to provide this information.
Spa Covers Etc. has put together a helpful guide:

How To Measure A Spa

WHAT IS THE SKIRT AND WHAT IS THE PURPOSE?

  • The skirt covers the fiberglass on the outside of the spa protecting it from UV rays.
  • The skirt does NOT provide any type of seal. It is for UV protection and looks.

WHICH FOAM TYPE DO I WANT / NEED?

With all the choices it can be difficult to decide which foam type is best for your scenario. Ideal™ Spa Covers is the OEM of spa covers for: Jacuzzi Hot Tubs, Sundance Spas, Dimensions One Spas, Cal-Spas and more. Because the are the OEM they know exactly to what specs the covers was made and what foam type came standard with your cover. When it is time for a replacement Spa Covers Etc. will ask questions in order to determine which foam type is best for your climate, safety needs, etc.
Standard Foam – 1.0lbs foam core with a 4″ x 2″ tapered core. This is the most common cover for spas located in Southern California and most southern states.
Deluxe Foam – 1.5lbs. foam core with a 4″ x 2″ tapered core. Many spa manufacturers have gone to the Deluxe Foam in order to have less inventory on hand. Instead of using the 1.0lbs for the southern parts of the country and the 2.0lbs for the colder, northern states, many companies default to the 1.5lbs. as a way to cover every scenario with one cover model If the current spa cover uses a 1.5lbs foam and you decide to purchase a 1.0lbs foam core to save money, be aware that the insulation value of the 1.0lbs foam is less and you will use more electricity to keep the spa heated.
Heavy Duty Foam – 2.0lbs foam core with a 4″ x 2″ tapered core. This upgrade is recommended for any area that gets ANY amount of snow or temperatures below 50F degrees. All spa covers sold by Spa Covers Etc. can handle a snow load of 300lbs but the Heavy Duty can handle almost double that! Did you know that your spa is equipped with a freeze control? That’s right! Your spa will turn itself on and begin to heat the water automatically if the spa gets below 40 degrees. With a higher insulation the spa heater will run less frequently and you will notice the savings $$$. With the Heavy Duty Spa Cover you will have twice the foam density as the Standard Spa Cover.
ALL spa covers for in-ground spas use Heavy Duty or Super Foam by default.
Super Foam – A 5″ x 3″ Spa cover with a twist! Many times in life you hear “Bigger IS Better” and sometimes this is true. But ask yourself, why do I need a spa cover this thick? The answer: You probably do NOT need it. The Super Foam Spa Cover uses a core that is 25% thicker than the Standard cover. It DOES provide a stronger cover with a higher insulation. But it comes with added weight compared to the 4″ x 2″ spa covers.
Both types of cover has a FULL 2.0″ of taper (slope) which encourages the water to run-off quickly. In reality, Super Foam should be purchased based on the scenario not just because it is Bigger. For example, the spa is built-in (in-ground) and you have a dog that insists on laying on the spa cover because it is warm. Over time the Standard cover may sag. This is less likely with Super Foam. Or maybe you want that extra confidence because you have children and you want to keep them safe. A Super Foam cover may be the hot ticket!
ALL NEW

THE ULTIMATE WATERFALL SPA COVER

The ONLY 5″ x 2″ spa cover! With a FULL 3.0″ of taper (slope) water will run-off the Ultimate Waterfall Spa Cover faster than any other spa cover. ADDITIONALLY… the new stitch design has eliminated over 1/3 of the stitches from the topside of the cover so water can’t penetrate the cover from above. The new design is stronger than any other cover and designed like no other cover! Great for any area! Get a lot of rain? This is the cover for your spa.

pictured above:
The Ultimate Waterfall Spa Cover with OVER 2 Feet of Snow.
IF THE 4″SPA COVER IS GOOD, IS A 5″ OR 6″ COVER BETTER?
Not necessarily. Chose the spa cover based upon your spa’s scenario. What type of climate do you have? Do you have a cover lifter on the spa? You are getting older, do you have to manually remove the cover by hand? Thicker spa covers are heavier and may cause problems when removing/ replacing.over.
Density of the foam and the taper are the most important things to consider about the foam core. The higher the density, the higher the insulation. If the foam doesn’t have a decent taper it will puddle and take on water weight. The 5″ and 6″ spa covers available today still use the 2″ taper but they do it with a thicker cover (and it is heavier). A question that comes to mind: do these 5″ and 6″ covers do anything different when it comes to sewing the cover together or are they same as the lighter spa covers? This will make a difference n the long run. Due to its weight, the heavier cover will be dropped, dragged across the deck/cement. It is more likely to tear, especially when the vinyl becomes older and the foam retains moisture. Buy a spa cover that best fits your needs, NOT what the cover company tells you is the best!
admin 0 comments April 23, 2024
Categories Spacoversetc

Spa Covers Etc. – About Us (Formerly Discount Pool Supply)

DISCOUNT POOL SUPPLY HAS A NEW NAME – SPA COVERS ETC.

ESTABLISHED 1997 

Discount Pool Supply was established in 1997 by Chris Graham, a mobile Pool and Spa Supply “On Wheels”.
From 1987 to 1997 Chris worked as the store manager for Allred’s Pool Supplies in Laguna Hills, Mission Pool & Spa Supplies in Mission Viejo and Sierra Pool & Spa in Lake Forest, Ca.. 
Chris realized that certain needs were not being met by the traditional swimming pool store. The main thing that was not offered as a service is HOME DELIVERY. As a “mobile” swimming pool store, Discount Pool Supply, is able to sell products such as Custom Vinyl Spa Covers, a product that is very big and bulky and may be difficult for a customer to transport to their home. And since you can’t bring your pool or spa to us, we make house calls. This ensures that you get the correct replacement parts for your pool or spa and potential future problems are able to be fixed before they become a major problem.

For information about spa covers visit Home of Ideal™ Spa Covers.

NOTE*** As of Jan 2019 Discount Pool Supply has changed its name to Spa Covers Etc. due to the fact that there are a lot of Discount Pool Supplies throughout the USA.
Our website is :https://www.spacoversetc.com/

Same Owner, just a new name!
admin 0 comments April 23, 2024
Categories Spacoversetc

Ideal Spa Covers vs. The “Other Guys”

THE IDEAL™ SPA COVER IS #1

SPA COVERS ARE NOT ALL CREATED EQUAL!

Ideal™ Spa Covers have over 20 points of reinforcement. Chris Graham, owner of Spa Covers Etc., in Orange County, Ca. would like to share some of those points with you.
Ideal™ Spa Covers are CUSTOM MADE to order. Every spa cover order is made to the customer’s specifications, choice of color, and choice of foam core density. Our spa covers are NOT generic sizes “that will work”. All spa covers are made by hand using industrial grade machines enabling us to make the strongest, longest lasting spa cover, in a wide variety of custom sizes and shapes.

IDEAL™ SPA COVERS USES A PROPRIETARY BLEND VINYL. EXCLUSIVE TO IDEAL!

Ideal™ Spa Covers has been in business over 25 years. This has made for a great relationship between Ideal™ Spa Covers and the manufacturer of the Vinyl. Over the years the formula of the Vinyl has been “tweaked” to meet the needs for our spa covers. This allows us to offer the Highest Grade of Marine Grade Vinyl that is unique to Ideal™ Spa Covers. Our proprietary formula for Vinyl has been treated with mold and UV inhibitors protecting it from the elements. With proper spa cover care, our customers have reported that Ideal™ Spa Covers last 6 to 8 years on average and up to 10 years when using 303 Aerospace Protectant every month after cleaning the spa cover.
The type of Vinyl used is the MOST important thing about a spa cover! If you use cheap Vinyl… who cares if it gets water-logged if the Vinyl is already torn/ faded? Many spa covers use a type of Vinyl that is meant to be used on furniture. This type of Vinyl will deteriorate quickly and have issues with mold due to its properties. Most Vinyl (even Marine grade Vinyl) is usually used as a type of fabric on furniture (e.g. chairs). This type of Vinyl has a soft “cotton-like” fabric on the underside.When exposed to moisture, this will be a perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. Our Vinyl doesn’t have this fabric underside.
UV protection is also a major concern. Even a boat that uses Vinyl for the seats is usually indoors or under a tarp when it not being used. A Vinyl spa cover is exposed to the elements 24/7. In addition to adding protection to our formula, we recommend using 303 Aerospace Protectant every month, this will reduce slow fade by 95% over fiver years! Vinyl has pores similar to the pores in skin. If these pores are allowed to become filled with dirt the vinyl will no longer be able to expand and contract with the heat of the day. Eventually the plasticizes will dry out and the Vinyl will lose its pliability and become hard and brittle. Eventually the Vinyl will tear and your spa cover will water-log the next time it rains.

IDEAL™ SPA COVERS USES VIRGIN EPS FOAM. IT IS TAPERED FOR MAXIMUM RUNOFF OF RAIN-WATER

When the spa cover industry was in its infancy a lot of things were done wrong. It was Ideal™ Spa Covers that standardized the use of tapered/ sloped foam. In the beginning the foam was 3″ flat foam or a foam with only 1″ of taper, 3.5″ to 2.5″. Ideal™ Spa Covers comes standard with 2″ tapered designs of 4″ x 2″ (1# and 2# foam). And also offers Super Foam 5″ x 3″ (2.5# foam).
Ideal™ Spa Cover recently introduced a great new design… the Ultimate Waterfall spa cover featuring 5″ x 2″ design. The only cover with 3″ of taper…50% more than the others! The new design also incorporates a seamless design around the top edges so that no moisture can penetrate the cover from the top. Heavy rains and snow melt will water-log this cover. Click for more information about the Ultimate Waterfall Spa Cover .

THE VPB 3000 VAPOR PROOF BARRIER – EXCLUSIVE TO IDEAL™ SPA COVERS

Protecting the foam from becoming water-logged should be a simple concept and standard on all spa covers. Unfortunately it’s not.
For Ideal™ Spa Covers the concept is simple. Ideal created a Vapor Proof Barrier. A proprietary blend of 4 mil thick plastic, wrap it around the foam panel and vacuum seal it by machine. When a spa cover is on a heated spa IT WILL PICK UP MOISTURE. The steam rises up through the stitches of ALL spa covers. Because our spa covers use the VPB 3000 Vapor Proof Barrier the steam remains separated from the foam. As it cools, it condenses back to water and drains out the drain holes. In my experience of selling this cover since 1997 I have found this is ALL that is required to keep an Ideal™ Spa Cover from water-logging.
The “other guys spa covers” advertise a few “interesting” options. They suggest “double wrap” of the cover. The problem with this idea is two-fold…
If the steam can penetrate their regular, run of the mil, off the shelf , polyethylene plastic, what good will putting a 2nd layer around it do? Nothing, it will just delay it. The plastic is actually porous to the point that steam can penetrate it, but it will hold water. In actuality the steam will still penetrate the first layer of plastic and then become trapped forever between the sheets when the moisture condenses. The foam at this point isn’t water-logged, technically… but the cover is getting heavier.
In addition to the VPB 3000 being an unique formula of plastic the Ideal™ Spa Cover also uses industrial grade machines to vacuum seal the plastic. Vacuum sealing of the plastic removes the air between the VPB 3000 and the foam.  And sealed with an industrial strength machine ensures that the seal will be done evenly throughout with the proper pressure providing a seal that is 100% sealed. Some “other guys spa covers” just tape the plastic closed. This is the worst thing that you can do! You are just guaranteeing that the steam is going to get trapped the first time the cover is on the heated spa consequently its just going to get worse from there.
My favorite “interesting” option is a spa cover that offers NO barrier from the steam. In fact they make no attempt to protect the foam from moisture. Be it steam or water. The design I am referring to uses a “mesh web” bottom material. Ideal™ Spa Covers uses industrial strength sheet of double ply poly-laminate with drain holes. The mesh-web bottom design exposes the unsealed foam to moisture and they acknowledge this and say it will just run out. If you have ever owned and had to replace an old spa cover you know how badly they can water-log and that they never really dry out. And they sure don’t dry out over night while the cover is on the heated spa.

CERTIFIED SAFETY COVER ASTM F 1346-91

Ideal™ Spa Covers are certified to be safety covers for children under the age of 5 years. For Example, when the spa cover is locked it prevents drowning because the child cant crawl under the spa cover. All Ideal™ Spa Covers (96″ x 96″) are certified as a safety cover ASTM 1346-91 when ordered with four (4) locking tie-downs. Recently you may have tried to sell or refinance your home and found out that your spa is NOT compliant with local safety regulations. You may have been told that a fence will be required and/ or door alarms on the patio doors. An Ideal™ Spa Cover w/ Tie Downs will solve this expensive problem. When used properly our spa covers will pass the ASTM requirement and have the required ASTM # stamped on every cover. If it doesn’t have the ASTM stamp the cover will not pass inspection.

IN A NUTSHELL….

Ideal™ Spa Covers are simply better than the competition because of the quality of the craftsmanship and use of the highest quality materials. And by taking the next step to work with the manufacturer’s of the materials, Ideal™ Spa Covers surpasses the quality of the competition with its use of proprietary blends. Forcing the “other guys spa covers” to produce an inferior spa cover. On the outside “theirs” appears similar to Ideal™ Spa Covers, but on the inside “they” sell you a Model T and Ideal sells the “Cadillac of Spa Covers”.

A FEW OF THE OTHER THINGS IDEAL™ SPA COVERS INCORPORATES INTO THEIR COVER

  • Tear Free Padded Handles (slightly offset) Made of same material/ color as spa cover. Fiver layers thick for added strength. (Not Nylon. Nylon rots in the sun)
  • Double Reinforced Folding Hinge – Allows for strength at the hinge (keeps foam panels pressed firmly against each other preventing heat loss through hinge). NO need for “full length thermal seal do-dad thing-a-ma-jig” the other guys are selling.
  • Dual Purpose Heat Seal Gaskets – When the spa cover is on the spa the gaskets eliminate loss of heat at the spa edges. When the spa cover is taken off, the gaskets double as a great resting place for the cover. Simply place the cover upright and rest on the padded gaskets.
  • Commercial Grade Nylon Zipper – At the beginning of the summer it is a good idea to take the foam out of the vinyl and let everything air out for a few hours. While the foam is out, wipe off the VPB 3000 plastic barrier. It may have moisture on it as well as mildew. A high quality zipper will enable you reassemble the spa cover easily.
  • Double Ply Poly-Laminate – The bottom of the spa cover is NOT the same as the colored portion of the spa cover. Since the bottom of the spa cover will be exposed to harsh fumes from the sanitizers it is important to have a strong material to withstand the abuse. We use a light grey color since the fumes will “bleach” out the color eventually.
  • LIVE CUSTOMER SERVICE – Call Spa Covers Etc. 9am to 6pm (PST). Chris, the owner will answer all of your questions about spa covers. And since he has been in the business for over 25 years he can answer all of your pool/spa questions as well. For more information click here: Spa Cover Information.
admin 0 comments April 23, 2024
Categories Spacoversetc

Liquid Chlorine or Salt Pool

SALT POOL VS. LIQUID CHLORINE POOL

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

Why do they call it a Salt Pool? Isn’t it just a device that generates chlorine from salt?

TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) is a measurement of ALL things that come into contact with the water when a chemical is added it leaves behind “salts”. When a swimmer swims they sweat just as much as they would if they were running. The difference is that it is all washed away by the water. Sweat is salt. If the wind blows dust into the pool it will add to the TDS. If the birds “drop” into the water this adds the TDS. And Urine adds to the TDS.

Fresh water is anything from 250ppm to 1000 ppm

Saline Solution (eye drops) 15,000 to 30,000 ppm

Sea water is 30,000 to 40,000 ppm

If the TDS is higher than 2500 ppm in a swimming pool we recommend draining the pool.

(In the pool industry we usually get complaints about the pool tasting salty at 5000 ppm)

If the pool has a high concentration of swimmers at one time and the TDS has tested at or above 2500 ppm, the usual source of the “salty taste” is from sweat floating at the top of the water level. (Sweat doesn’t sink).

NOW WE COMPARE LIQUID CHLORINE TO A SALT (GENERATOR) POOL.

*** Note there are many types of ways to make chlorine. This ONLY compares Liquid Chlorine to a Salt Pool.  Dry Chlorine is very different.

Liquid Chlorine:

In Every gallon of liquid chlorine is a POUND and a HALF of salt. The chlorine manufacturer has a giant storage tank that they use to make liquid chlorine. It uses water and salt NACL. The tank uses a low voltage charge to polarize the NA (sodium) and the CL (Chlorine) using a negative charge the can separate the two elements and make what we call liquid chlorine (Sodium hypochlorite). Notice the Salt and chlorine in the words of sodium hypochlorite?

Over the course of time as more and more chlorine is added, water evaporates leaving the TDS from the tap water behind. When you add more water, more TDS are introduced to the pool. Adding chlorine and other sanitizing chemicals contributes to the rise of TDS.

A commercial pool may need to be drained annually depending on how many people use the pool over a course of the year. Hotter summers will require more chlorine and all will make TDS rise faster.

Fresh water out of the tap (today 9/6/2013) is 486 ppm. At 2500 ppm draining of the water is recommended.

Higher TDS readings are not harmful as long as there is a chlorine reading above 1.0 ppm. Higher TDS readings DO cause the pool to require a bit more chlorine. High TDS may cause cloudiness to the water.

Salt (generator) Pool:

This is exactly the same thing as a liquid chlorinated pool.

The difference is that in a Salt Pool, the owner of the pool owns the salt generator (the machine that makes the chlorine) and your pool is the storage tank.

Initially when the pool is filled, depending on the size of the pool, about 200 to 500 pounds of salt will be added to the water, dissolved, and when the salt generator is turned on it will do the following:

The water in the pool must be circulated (on the customers dime) in order for salt to be introduced as chlorine and mixed throughout the water. Approximately every 4 hours the unit will reverse polarity and separate the NACL into Salt and Chlorine and then reverse and turn itself back into NACL Table Salt. The strength of the chlorine in the water is determined by the setting on the salt generator and the length of time that the pool is running.

Over time more salt will be required and this will add to the TDS.

Neither a freshly filled salt water pool nor a pool that is sanitized using liquid chlorine should have a “salty” taste. However, over time both pools may develop some sort of taste. This usually is when the pool needs to be drained. A TDS test can confirm this.

Note**** Do not confuse the above description of a salt pool with a pool filled with salt water. A salt water pool is a relaxation pool in which the salt level is that of the Dead Sea and you actually float on the water. You can’t swim in this type of pool.

Remember Sea Water is over 30,000 ppm. A pool is usually under 5000 ppm.

Now that you know a Salt Pool is the same thing as liquid chlorinated pool you should ask your pool professional about things like the initial cost of a salt generator, annual maintenance costs, how often do you add more salt,  and how long do they last? Compare this to the cost of liquid chlorine (at about $4.00 per gallon) and you can make an educated decision.

For more information visit our website @ Spa Covers Etc.

NOTE*** As of March 2022, a case of chlorine (4 gallons) has been reported to cost over $30.00. If you use a case of chlorine and you probably do in the summer a salt generator may be for you!

admin 0 comments April 23, 2024