pool solar blankets

pool solar blankets

For hot tub owners, tub covers make a dramatic difference when it comes to saving money on the electric bill. Since most heat escapes through the top of a tub, not having a spa cover causes the tub heater to work harder to generate adequate heat. An insulated cover can make your tub heater more efficient, reduce your electric bill, as well as reduce wear and tear on your hot tub and parts and cut down on cleaning and maintenance times.

The tub covers that usually come with many models of portable hot tubs do not offer the same benefits as an insulated cover, and still allow for heat to escape. Since most covers are made from Expanded polystyrene, it is not the kind of material that matters when it comes to proper insulation for a tub cover, but instead the level of insulation.

The thickness of your cover should be an R value to provide the appropriate level of protection. A high R value insulation thickness means that the cover has superior ability to resist heat flow. While it isn't necessary to know a lot about spa covers, you should keep in mind that the higher the R value, the better.

Most basic covers have an R value of insulation thickness that ranges anywhere from 12 to 15. While some manufacturers claim that their spa covers have an R value of insulation thickness in excess of 20, it is important to keep in mind that there is no universal requirement for outside temperatures when measuring the R value. The outside temperature can obviously make a great deal of difference when trying to determine the amount of heat that can escape through any spa cover, therefore, an R value of 20 on one could be totally different than the same rating on another.

If you have had your hot tub or your spa cover for a period of time, it may be more affordable to consider purchasing a floating blanket instead of investing in a new insulated tub cover. Floating thermal blankets also help to reduce the amount of energy consumed by your hot tub's heater, prevent heat from escaping, and can also reduce the amount of wear and tear on your spa cover by cutting down on moisture buildup on the inside surface. This can greatly increase the lifespan of your insulated tub cover over time.

Another thing to think about is the purchase of a tub cover lift. Since thicker insulation can add several pounds to your cover, these hot tub covers can be more difficult for the average person to lift, and a tub cover lift is a relatively affordable added convenience that can save you time, energy, and unnecessary back and muscle strain.

Nicole Rempfer is a Spa Dealer that shares her expertise through her write ups. Visit her website now SunsetSpasAZ.com for more information on hot tub covers in Phoenix.

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