With so many options available, it becomes difficult to decide which cover lifter to get that will best suit your hot tub needs. When faced with the daunting task of picking out a cover lifter, it becomes necessary to consult a hot tub cover lifter buying guide. Here, we will highlight everything you need to consider before buying a cover lifter for your spa, as well as break down the different options for lifters.

Why get a Hot Tub Cover Lifter?

• A spa cover lifter extends the life of your cover. It evenly distributes proper support across the entire cover, reducing the wear and tear and prolonging its use. 
• Allows for easier and quicker removal of your cover.
• Reduces the risk of back injuries, keeping you safe from unwanted strains.
• Hot tub covers can get heavy over time as the foam core absorbs water, making it harder to remove the cover by hand.

What to consider first

Space available

It is important to take a look at the space around your hot tub. Cover lifters for hot tubs vary in shape and size, so it is vital that you ensure you have enough space before purchasing one. Make note of any obstacles that cannot be moved and remember that there are both back-mounting cover lifters, and side-mounted cover lifters. Most lifters need at least 12” clearance, while others require up to half of your cover length of space.

Hot Tub Size and Shape

Consider the size and shape of your hot tub. Some spa cover lifters will only work with specific hot tubs, while others are more versatile. It may be that you have a round hot tub, and some lifters will not work with such a cover. Most lifters require that your cover lifter be between 76” – 96”.

Hot Tub Cover Mount type

The type of mount that you will require largely depends on the amount of space you have, as well as factoring in personal preference and aesthetic.

Hot Tub Cover Installation

Hot tub cover lifter installation is typically easy and straight-forward, though it may be helpful to get an extra set of hands for the process. Be sure to follow the instructions given with your cover lifter, and the process should go smoothly!

Manual Hot Tub Cover Lifter

This hot tub lid lifter features a metal bar that runs across the middle fold on top of your cover. When you want to remove the cover, you simply have to fold the cover in half over the bar, then push the whole cover back where it will hang on the metal bar of the lifter. The Cover Valet Cover Rock-It is a great option is a great option for manual cover lifting.

Hydraulic Hot Tub Cover Lifter

This lifter works very similarly to the manual lifter but instead, the hydraulic pistons featured on this lifter allows for the weight of the cover to be carried by the lifter itself. This makes it lighter for you to remove the cover. This is a great option, particularly for winter climates as it will make taking the cover off far easier after some snow accumulation. The Ultra-Lift Hydraulic cover lifter works exceptionally well and only requires 12”-14” of clearance.

Under Mount Hot Tub Cover Lifter

This is an option that is installed so that it rests under the hot tub, using the hot tub weight as means of support. This lifter also works the same as you fold half of the cover over, then let the cover hang on the side of the hot tub. Ultra Lift also has an Undermount cover lifter that is great if this suits you best.

Shelf Hot Tub Cover Lifter

A hot tub shelf cover lifter is exactly as it sounds, a shelf mounted to the side of your hot tub that will hold your hot tub cover. This option does not carry any of the weight to help lifting but does provide a great place to put your cover. Shelf Lifters typically require the most clearance, so be sure to keep this in mind. This option is the most cost-effective but requires more effort to use.

Hot Tub Cover Lifter Maintenance

Cover lifter maintenance is easy and typically hassle-free. They are made to be corrosion resistant and easy to maintain. Be sure to inspect your lifter components every few months to ensure no damage or danger. It’s in good practice to also wipe down your cover lifter components at the same time, to extend its life by removing any grime and debris. 

Cover Lifters are made to make your life easier and your hot tub experience more relaxing. There are options to suit every tub, with different sizes and functions available. Your cover lifter is bound to make every hot tub experience less straining on your body, and your hot tub cover will also thank you for it.