How an Energy-Saving Spa Cover Can Help You Save Money
Did you know that an energy-saving spa cover can help lower your energy bills by up to 30%? Many spa owners don’t realize just how much energy they’re wasting with an old, worn-out spa cover. A low-quality cover with poor insulation makes it harder for your spa to retain heat, causing your heating system to run more often and your energy bills to soar.
At Spa Covers Etc., we offer energy-saving spa covers that are highly insulated and fit spas of all shapes and sizes. Whether your spa is square, round, or custom-shaped, we ensure that you get the perfect, energy-efficient cover.
Choosing the Right Energy-Saving Spa Cover
Some square spas have corners that come to a point, which we call a basic spa. These spas need a standard square spa cover to maximize heat retention and reduce your energy costs.
Older spa models may feature “cut corners,” requiring a square spa cover with cut corners to match the spa’s shape and retain heat effectively. Properly fitting spa covers are essential for reducing heating costs and prolonging the life of your spa.
How to measure your spa click here

This square spa has 1) cut corner so we made a square spa cover with 1) cut corner. Many times, you will find an older portable spa made with all four (4) corners cut and they usually have the same dimensions but its recommended that you measure the spa’s cut corners to be sure that you order the correct size spa cover.

This square spa has rounded corners, meaning all four corners have been rounded off. The radius of the spa’s corners determines how we cut the foam to match the shape. It is crucial that a square spa with rounded corners has a properly fitting square spa cover with rounded corners for the best fit.
Why Your Hot Tub Cover is SO Important
Your hot tub cover does more than keep dirt and debris out of the spa. It plays a critical role in maintaining your hot tub’s temperature and efficiency. A good hot tub cover:
Prevents Heat Loss: A well-insulated spa cover keeps the water at the desired temperature, ensuring the spa is always ready to use. No more waiting for the spa to heat up.
Reduces Water Evaporation: A heated spa loses more water to evaporation, but even a cold spa will lose some water from sitting in the sun all day. A properly fitted spa cover can reduce evaporation by up to 90%.
Protects Against Weather & Debris: High heat and strong winds can increase evaporation. A good spa cover prevents water loss and keeps unwanted debris, animals, rain, and snow from contaminating your spa. This ensures your perfectly pH-balanced spa stays in optimal condition.
Lowers Maintenance Costs: A spa cover blocks UV rays, which can degrade your spa’s sanitizer. Without a cover, sanitizers like Bromine won’t last more than 24 hours, leading to cloudy water, bad smells, and potential algae growth. Using a cover reduces the need for excessive sanitizer and prevents chemical imbalances.
If your spa cover is old, torn, or damaged, it may be causing your energy bills to rise and may also be the reason you’re using more chemicals than when the spa was new.

Signs You Need A New Hot Tub Cover
1. The Cover Feels Heavier and Water-logged
If your spa cover feels much heavier than it once did, it’s likely water-logged. A high-quality, energy-saving spa cover should be lightweight and easy to handle. When the cover absorbs water, it pulls heat away from the spa, forcing the heater to run more frequently and raising your energy bills. Plus, a heavy cover can damage the lift system and discourage regular use.
2. Cracks or Tears in the Cover
Cracked or torn covers allow heat to escape and let sunlight damage internal components like the foam core and vapor-proof barrier. This compromises the insulation, leading to higher energy consumption and inefficient heating.
3. The Cover Has Started to Sag
Sagging indicates a worn-out cover—either due to water-logging or foam damage. A sagging cover won’t create a proper seal, so it can’t retain heat properly. As a result, your spa will have to work harder to maintain temperature, increasing energy use.
If your spa cover shows any of these signs, it’s time to replace it with a new, energy-saving spa cover.
Choosing the Right Hot Tub Cover
Insulation
The R-value measures the insulation of your spa cover. It’s important to choose a cover with the right R-value based on your local climate. For example, a snowy region requires a spa cover with a higher R-value, while a warmer climate like Southern California needs less. Thicker is not always better—choose a cover that fits your needs.
Proper Fit
For a portable, fiberglass spa, the cover should fit exactly and not hang over excessively. For a built-in plaster spa, the cover should be 8 inches larger than the spa’s body to allow for a 4-inch perimeter on all sides. A proper fit ensures your energy-saving spa cover works efficiently.
Durable Materials
Look for a spa cover that uses UV-resistant, marine-grade vinyl. Spa Covers Etc. offers a proprietary vinyl blend that outperforms regular covers. Our material includes Chlorine and Bromine inhibitors to prevent wear from chemicals and sunlight. Additionally, it has mold and mildew inhibitors and is cold-crack tested down to negative 40°F, ensuring durability in all climates.
Strong Hinges and Steam Stoppers
Strong hinges are essential for keeping the cover intact and supporting the weight of the cover when using a lifter. Steam Stoppers prevent heat and steam from escaping through the center hinge. All Spa Covers Etc. covers come standard with these features at no extra cost!
Investing in a High-Quality Energy-Saving Spa Cover Can Lead to Big Savings
How Much Money Can You Save?
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Reduce Your Energy Bills by 20 to 30%
A new energy-saving spa cover significantly lowers your energy consumption. Keeping your spa insulated means less energy required to maintain your desired temperature. -
Extend the Lifespan of Your Hot Tub
Less frequent heating means your spa’s heating system won’t wear out as quickly. This can save you money by preventing costly repairs and extending the life of your equipment. -
Use Less Water and Chemicals
A properly fitting energy-saving spa cover reduces water evaporation and chemical loss. Less water and fewer chemicals mean additional savings for you.
The savings will add up over time, and a new spa cover will practically pay for itself.
If your spa cover is old, damaged, or waterlogged, it’s costing you money. A new, energy-saving spa cover from Spa Covers Etc. will keep your spa hot and ready to use, all while saving you money.