Sometimes our customers ask us, “Do I need a hot tub cover lifter?” While we can’t answer that question definitively, we can definitely say that having one makes hot-tubbing all the more enjoyable.

Of course, if you currently own one, you know this already. However, the question for you is whether you need an upgrade to enhance your overall investment.

Hot tub covers are relatively light when you first install your hot tub. However, as the years pass your cover will be subject to rain, melting snow, and other elements. All of this moisture will eventually seep into the cover and be absorbed by the foam inside.

After a few years, this will add significant weight to your cover, making it difficult to remove from your hot tub. Since it’s so heavy, you also risk dropping it on the ground and possibly ripping it.

Once you remove your cover, you’re going to need the jet massage to soothe those aching muscles!

The very thought of moving a cover that can weigh in excess of 75 lbs is enough to turn you off of the idea of using your hot tub. You might ask yourself, “Is it really worth the hassle?”, and simply deny yourself of the health benefits your tub can bring.

Plus, depending on the type of cover lifter you currently have, that heavy cover might be too much for the lifter to bear, and cause damage to both it and the cover. That’s potentially two repair or replacement expenses you weren’t expecting – when all you wanted to do was soak in your tub!

When it’s time to buy or upgrade to a new cover lifter to continue having the best hot tub experience possible, you’ll have to choose between standard and hydraulic models. Let’s have a look at both so you can determine which would be best for you.

Standard hot tub cover lifters

Standard hot tub cover lifters are more traditional and cost-effective than hydraulic cover lifters. They don’t use hydraulics or pistons, but are very durable and a great choice for people who don’t have any unique specifications.

This type of lifter requires at least 14” or more behind the spa for proper installation and operation. Although they do their job well, you have to be careful not to push the cover too hard when opening, as the cover might rock back on you and damage the cover lifter or tub at the stop point, or where it rests while open. Also, you don’t have the assistance of the hydraulics when replacing the cover onto the tub.

When it comes to making removing and replacing covers easier, standard cover lifters can’t compare to their hydraulic counterparts. However, standard models such as the Cover Handler are easy to install, feature very durable, all-metal components, and offer excellent value for the investment.

Hydraulic Cover Lifters

One of the biggest benefits of owning a hydraulic cover lifter is that it makes the chore of removing, storing, and replacing the covers easy for 1 person without having to seek help. They also help extend the life of your cover by minimizing dropping or storing it on the ground, which could otherwise rip and scuff the vinyl.

Most hydraulic lifters require comparably little clearance from any nearby walls, fences, or other objects, and safely hold your cover in place while you use your hot tub.

These products run on “piston power” to help you move your cover. You just need to gently move the cover in an upward direction, and pistons instantly take the burden away! Replacing the cover back on the tub is just as easy – just tug the cover so the pistons lower the cover back into place.

Another type of these lifters operates more like baskets that cradle your cover. They’re supported by the bottom of your tub so any extra weight won’t cause any damage. Many users feel that this functionality makes this type of lifter preferable to other models that simply “hang” the cover-up. Typically, you need 36” for proper installation and operation of these basket cover lifters.

Hydraulic cover lifters have a variety of options to fit every size and configuration of hot tub, so you’re sure to find the one that’s right for you. After that, your days of struggling with your hot tub covers will be behind you, and you can then look forward to using your hot tub more, instead of dreading how heavy your cover will be on any given day.

What is the best hot tub cover lifter?

It really depends on your individual needs and, of course, budget. Hydraulic cover lifters are truly the premier choice of spa owners who want to get the most of their hot tub experience.

We’re big fans of the Lift ‘n Store Plus. It’s innovative, space-saving design requires only 6” of clearance to install and operate, compared to other lifters that need a clearance of 14” or more.

Here are some of this model’s other great features:

• Dual hydraulic pistons counterbalance the cover weight for easy opening and closing
• Acts as a privacy screen when opened, eliminating the need for privacy screening on that side of the tub
• Auto-lock safety feature engages when the cover is open
• Can be mounted to the deck as well as the hot tub siding, with no extra attachment materials required

We carry a variety of cover lifters, all made of durable, top-quality materials and designed to maximize your hot tub experience. In our opinion, The Lift ‘n Store will give you the royal spa treatment you deserve!

So…do I need a hot tub cover lifter?

If you want to get the most out of your spa experience, the answer is a resounding YES!

The only decision you really need to make is which cover lifter is the best for your hot tub and backyard configurations. The best idea is to ask your local hot tub professional for their advice. They’ll ask the right questions in order to gather enough information to help you make an informed decision.

Once your new spa cover lifter is installed, you’ll be ready once again for that well-deserved relaxing massage!