How Hot Tub Lifters Help Prevent Cover Damage (and Save You Money)

A hot tub cover is more than just an accessory—it’s a critical component that protects your spa, retains heat, and keeps debris out of the water. Unfortunately, hot tub covers are also one of the most commonly damaged parts of a spa. The good news? A hot tub lifter can significantly extend the life of your cover while making spa use easier and safer.

Let’s take a closer look at what hot tub lifters are, how covers get damaged, and why installing a lifter is a smart investment for any hot tub owner.

Why Hot Tub Covers Get Damaged

Hot tub covers are designed to be durable, but daily use and environmental exposure can take a toll. Common causes of cover damage include:

Improper handling: Dragging the cover on the ground or folding it awkwardly can stress the seams and foam core.
Water absorption: When covers are laid flat on the ground, moisture can seep in, making them heavy and prone to sagging.
UV exposure: Prolonged sunlight can break down vinyl materials, leading to cracking and fading.
Wind damage: Covers left unsecured can catch the wind, causing bending, tearing, or broken hinges.
Excess weight: Snow, rain, or standing water can add strain that shortens the cover’s lifespan.

Over time, these issues lead to waterlogged foam, ripped seams, and covers that no longer seal properly—reducing energy efficiency and increasing heating costs.

What Is a Hot Tub Lifter?

A hot tub lifter (also called a cover lifter) is a mechanical or hydraulic device designed to assist with removing and storing your hot tub cover while the spa is in use. Lifters attach to the hot tub cabinet or sit beside the spa, allowing the cover to fold and lift smoothly with minimal effort.

Regardless of type, all lifters share the same core benefit: protecting your hot tub cover from unnecessary wear and tear.

How Hot Tub Lifters Prevent Cover Damage

1. Proper Support Reduces Stress on the Cover

Without a lifter, many spa owners fold their cover in half and let it hang or rest awkwardly against the tub. This uneven support can strain the hinge and seams. A lifter holds the cover securely in a balanced position, reducing stress on key structural points.

2. Prevents Dragging and Scraping

Dragging a heavy cover across concrete, decking, or gravel can quickly damage the vinyl exterior. Hot tub lifters keep the cover elevated and off the ground, eliminating abrasions and punctures.

3. Keeps the Cover Dry

When a cover is laid flat on the ground, it can absorb moisture from rain, snow, or wet surfaces. Lifters store the cover vertically or suspended, allowing water to drain and air to circulate—helping prevent mildew, mold, and waterlogging.

4. Protects Against Wind Damage

A lifter holds the cover in place when it’s open, reducing the risk of sudden gusts catching it like a sail. This added stability helps prevent cracked foam cores and broken hinges caused by wind.

5. Minimizes Bending and Folding Damage

Repeatedly bending a cover the wrong way weakens its internal foam panels. Lifters are designed to fold covers along their natural hinge, maintaining the integrity of the foam and extending overall lifespan.

Added Benefits Beyond Cover Protection

While preventing damage is a major advantage, hot tub lifters offer additional perks:

Ease of use: One person can open and close the hot tub without strain
Improved safety: Reduces the risk of back, shoulder, and hand injuries
Encourages frequent use: When opening the spa is easy, you’re more likely to enjoy it regularly
Cleaner covers: Less contact with dirt and debris means less cleaning and maintenance

A Smart Investment That Pays Off

Replacing a hot tub cover can be expensive, often costing several hundred dollars. By extending the life of your cover by even a few years, a hot tub lifter can easily pay for itself. Plus, better cover performance means improved insulation and lower energy costs over time.

LOVINS SELECT POOL AND SPA