Frequently Asked Questions

We have been in the spa cover business for over 15 years, and have sold custom made spa covers on the Internet since 1996. Our mission is simple, to provide you with top quality products at affordable prices that can be delivered anywhere in the continental United States in 1-3 weeks  

Do you have a storefront?
 
No.  We do not have a physical storefront open to the public.  Our warehouse is for freight truck deliveries only and most of our business is done online and we ship all over the U.S. daily.

Do you have spa covers in stock?

No. Everything is custom made to order with the measurements you provide. We can often obtain measurements using manufacturer make and model but backup measurements are important to ensure you order the right cover. Often, a manufacturer will re-use a name and change the specifications slightly from year to year.

Is the website secure enough to order?

Our website is secured by McAfee Secure, and is tested daily through paypal. We cannot see any of your card information except for the last four and type of card used to purchase, your card number is not stored in our system for additional security. We also offer phone support service to take orders and answer questions.

I am having trouble getting through to the 1800 phone #?

If our phone lines are busy or the hold time is too long (we sincerely apologize), please contact our retail store directly at 951-734-3760, or email us at info@spacoversplus.com and include your phone number, and we can assist you.

What are the benefits of registration?

As a registered customer, you become entitled to special discount programs and promotional pricing offers. These programs would become available to you not only on orders you place at our web store but also to orders through other channels.

I already have an account set up with you. Do I need to register myself again on your web store?

No. If you already have an account with us, contact our Customer Service; they will give you your login name and password. You can login and then change your password.

Can I place an order without registering my account?

Yes, however, you will have to call in your order. No anonymous orders can be done online. Once you have registered with us, you need not give your billing or shipping information on future visits to shop. This will save you the trouble of entering this information on every purchase you make from us.

   
What if I find a better price?

If you find a better price on the exact same product, including shipping & handling please email us the direct link to sales@spacoversplus.com and we will meet or beat our competitors price!   PLEASE NOTE THE FINAL DELIVERED PRICE ON ITEMS.  
 
We are confident our prices are the lowest online. But, if you find a better price online for the exact same item with the same delivery service levels, before purchase we will do everything possible to try and beat it. The price will be determined by the competitor’s final delivered price including shipping, and sales tax if applicable. We will meet or beat that price to be inclusive of any applicable coupons, or discount promotions.  
 
How do I pay by check?

To pay by check, simply download, print and fill out our online order form and mail it to us at the address printed on the order form.
   
What is the R factor of your covers?
 
Our *Standard* Covers have a 17 R factor.  *Deluxe*, *Extreme Cold* and *Walk-On* Covers have a 21 R factor
 
 I want to order a new cover but I don't know how to measure it or it's an odd shape, now what?

We have thousands of templates in stock if you know the manufacturer name and model number call your order in. If not and If you do not see your spa shape displayed on the order page you can make a template in a few minutes simply buy any clear painters drop cloth at your local hardware store. Drape the plastic over your spa and stretch it so it sits flat. Then with a black permanent marker trace the edge of the spa. Be sure to write "TOP" on the top, your name, your color choice, skirt size, tie downs if any and your address and contact phone number and download and print the order form. Then mail it to us and we'll begin making your new spa cover right away!
 
My current spa cover is a 3 piece, how much will it be?
 
Standard 3 piece spa covers are $449.99 delivered.
Deluxe 3 piece spa covers are $515.99 delivered.
Extreme Cold 3 piece spa covers are $569.99 delivered.
Sales tax applies to CA residents only.

*3 piece covers please place your order over the phone
 
My current spa cover is a 4 piece, how much will it be?

Standard 4 piece spa covers are $599.99 delivered.
Deluxe 4 piece spa covers are $689.99 delivered.
Extreme Cold 4 piece spa covers are $759.99 delivered.
Sales tax applies to CA residents only.

*4 piece covers please place your order over the phone

My spa has speakers, do you make a spa cover for these?

Yes. We do make spa speaker covers. To be sure we have the correct template in stock In this case it would be ideal to take a digital photo of your spa and email it to us at info@spacoversplus.com along with the make and model of the spa, the year, and your contact information.

My current spa cover is a 4 piece, how much will it be?

It depends on how many speakers. Most spas have only 2 or 4 in the corners. A spa with 2 speakers would be an additional $150.00 and a spa with 4 speakers would be an additional $200.00.

How much does my new spa cover weigh?

An average 2-piece spa cover 1.25# foam cover is 36lbs.
An average 2-piece spa cover 2.0# foam cover is 40lbs.

How much weight will my spa cover hold?

While most spa covers are rugged and durable we do not ever recommend walking, sitting, standing, or jumping on your spa cover.

Typically a 1.25# spa cover can hold up to 150lbs.
Typically a 2.0# spa cover can hold up to 225lbs.
Typically a 2.0# walk on cover can hold up to 450lbs.

Why do some spa covers get heavy as they get older?

The foam, a cover's core is made of is called Expanded Polystyrene and is made of small beads that are expanded with steam. Once expanded they are dried and then "attached together" simply by compressing them. The more pressure they are compressed under, the high the density of the foam. The individual "beads" are waterproof! However, water can saturate between the beads.

In order to reduce water absorption, the foam cores are sealed in polyethylene. The method used to seal the polyethylene is an important factor. Many cheap covers simply have the polyethylene taped closed. Not good, as the tape will eventually fail. Better covers have the polyethylene heat sealed. While this is usually better than tape, if not done carefully and properly it can actually be worse. When the polyethylene is heat sealed, if it's over heated the seam will be excessively brittle and can crack, allowing water to enter the foam.

The most obvious cause of water absorption would be a small hole punctured through the cover. Even the smallest hole will allow a large amount of water to enter the foam over time.

The most common cause of water absorption is the "natural degradation of the polyethylene". Over time, chlorine, bromine, non-chlorine shock and ozone will break down the polyethylene causing it to become porous. The thicker the polyethylene (we use a 6 mil thick polyethylene), the longer it will resist this chemical degradation. At some point however, it will become porous enough to allow evaporation and steam to penetrate through it. It WILL NOT be porous enough to allow the steam that has condensed back into water to drip back out.

What causes the underside of a spa cover to droop into the water?

Besides a loosely fitted vinyl covering, the most frequent cause of sagging is excessive air inside the polyethylene that seals the foam cores. Manufactured at cool temperatures, once on your spa temperature increases the additional heat of the water will cause any trapped air in a cover to expand. It's important to vacuum out any air that might be trapped during the process of sealing the foam cores in the polyethylene.

Why do tie downs rip or tear off?

Most tie downs tear off due excessive force or poorly designed or poorly made spa covers. Tie downs should never be use as handles for lifting a spa cover, they should hold up to quite strong winds. We have virtually eliminated tie down ripping by using nylon webbing and sewing it into the cover at 4 different points.

Is sealing the inner wrapping important?

The most common cause of spa cover failure is due to the foam cores absorbing moisture. Besides the moisture causing the cover to gain excessive weight, the saturation also greatly reduces the insulating ability of the cover. One of the most important features of an insulating is the vapor proof barrier surrounding the foam. Not only is the type of material and it's thickness important, but manner in which it's sealed is also important.

The simplest way to seal the foam is to simply wrap it in plastic sheeting and tape it closed. Generally, the tape will fail rather quickly allowing moisture to penetrate into the foam. The preferred method for sealing the plastic sheeting is to properly heat seal it.

Is double sealing the inner wrapping suggested?

Your new spa cover is heat wrapped once with polyethylene sheeting.  One of the option upgrades we offer is to double wrap the foam core with the polyethylene sheeting, which further extends to covers lifespan.

What kind of insulation do you use on my spa cover?

Our spa covers use virgin expanded polystyrene foam.  We do not use recycled foam insulation due to its tenancy to gap and is less reliable.  We use 1.25# and 2.0# foam(2.0# foam is an upgrade option.  The higher weight rating (density 1.25# vs 2.0#) means increased strength and reduced moisture absorption.

What kind of vinyl do you use on my spa cover?

We use 30 oz (per lineal yard) marine grade 1500 vinyl(UV rating & weather resistant to 1500+ hours).  MG1500 was developed for the high demands of the boating and awning industires, it's the thickest vinylo used on any spa cover and it exceeds all specified requirements for :marine grade" or "premium grade" vinyl.  It features mildew inhibitors, UV stabilized coloring, to help prevent fading, and is resistant to chlorine, bromine, and salt sanitizers. The backing fabric is reinforced 100% polyester mesh that is strong, will not rot, and is mildew resistant.  The vinyl encasement is double stitched using the higest quality UV and moisture resistant bonded polyester thread.

How important is a warranty?

As with any product, a comprehensive warranty is important. It's important however, to look closely at, and understand the warranty. Warranties are frequently used as a marketing tool and can be very deceptive. While the warranty may state an extremely long time frame, the exclusions can make it virtually worthless. Some retailers are adding an extremely long extended warranty, to the actual manufacturers warranty, as a marketing ploy. It should be interesting to see if they're still in business (or have any happy customers) towards the end of this time frame.

Most warranties exclude damages caused by animals, fire, vandalism, excessive chemicals, improper installation, excessive weight load, acts of God and possibly more. Almost certainly, they also have an exclusion for "normal wear and tear". What exactly is "normal wear and tear", and who makes the determination on this?
The most important exclusion in all spa cover warranties is "shipping and handling". The customer is ALWAYS responsible for this, and the cover has to be shipped back to the manufacturer and then again back to you. Unless you can personally deliver the cover to the manufacturer, almost certainly the cost of shipping will be MORE than the cost of a brand new cover.

Prorated warranties are some of the most deceptive! It makes it look like the warranty has an even longer time frame, but now you're paying not only for the shipping costs (in both directions, which can be more than the cost of a new cover), but also a percentage of the retail cost.

We have been in the spa business since 1996, and though it's rare, what few warranty problems we've seen, have never occurred after the first year! In fact, almost all have occurred within the first month. Since we started double stitching every aspect of our spa covers, we have never had a warranty problem. While it is stated in our warranty that the cover must be returned to us for repair, we have never required the actual return of an entire cover at the customers expense for repair.

How long can I expect my spa cover to last?

The life span of a spa cover is dependant upon many things.  Direct sunlight, heat and snow conditions, chemicals used on the cover and in the spa.  How well the cover is cared for or abused all have an impact on the lifespan of a spa cover.  Generally if taken care of a spa cover should last 5 to 8 years.  So be weary of any company claiming to have a 10 year warranty.  If you read the fine print most of these 'warranties' are prorated and include you pay for shipping both ways, which can cost just as much as a new cover.

What can I do to extend the life-span of my spa cover?

Although spa covers are very durable, a small amount of general care and maintenance are recommended and can help extend the life of any spa cover.
When possible keep your spa cover out of direct sunlight or if exposed to full sun we recommend a lighter color to reduce noticeable fading.

Do not over sanitize the water, and remove the cover when shocking. This is the very important. As excessive sanitizers evaporate, they can actually deteriorate many of the plastic materials a spa cover is constructed from.

When cleaning your cover do not use abrasive cleaners.  Dish soap and a sponge are recommended.

Treating and protecting the outer vinyl from the elements is the most important factor. "303 Protectant" is the best thing for treating and protecting the cover from sun damage. Stay away from any petroleum based products that claim to condition vinyl. They actually do much more harm than good.

Remove excessive snow to prevent the cover from sagging and possibly breaking.

Never sit, stand, or jump on a spa cover.

Do I measure the old spa cover or the spa?

This depends on the condition of the old cover.  Generally we recommend removing the old cover and measuring the outside of the tub. 

Do I measure the spa shell or the spa cabinet?

This is a personal preference.         

How do I measure radius?

#1 download and print our pdf template and place it over the corner of your spa. Click here for a pdf.
#2 Using a carpenters square or a standard tape measure. Standard radius is between 5" to 9" Click here for an illustration.
(If you have trouble distinguishing between an 8" radius and a 7" radius,the 7" radius will make the cover bigger and the way to go.) or,
#3 if you have a rounded square (most common cover) we can obtain the radius by simply measuring an X kitty-corner (from outside rounded square to
opposite outside rounded square). an example measurement: (length, width, diagonal) 82" x 82" would have a 112". Enter 82,82,112 on order form.
                                                                                     

   
Can I replace only the foam in my existing cover?

Typically the answer is no. The reason being it is very costly to ship a spa cover and you would need to ship your old cover to us, have us replace the foam, then ship the cover back to you costing you hundreds of dollars in shipping costs.

Do you keep spa covers in stock to order from?

No.  There are thousands of variables: shapes, sizes, colors, tie downs, foam density, skirts, and other options to chose from.  Each cover is custom made when you order it.  This is why it is very important to measure your spa cover carefully before ordering and once we receive your order it cannot be canceled for any reason.

Can I return my spa cover if I measure incorrectly?

Yes. But you will be responsible for shipping costs. You, the spa owner assumes all responsibility for providing measurements. There are no refunds- no exceptions! Be sure to measure twice and verify your measurements are accurate when placing your order.

How long until I receive my cover if I order it today?

Depending on your location you will receive your new spa cover within two weeks, three weeks maximum.  Most covers are made and shipped within a week.

How is my cover delivered to me?

We ship spa covers using "common carrier" freight companies.  Spa covers are just too big and bulky to be shipped by UPS and FEDEX.  This means our shipper delivers your cover to a nearby terminal it is then transferred to a local delivery agency and delivered to you. 

What if I receive my cover and it's damaged?

Less than 1% of covers shipped are received damaged.  If the carton  is obviously severely damaged, please refuse the shipment from the freight  company. Call us within 48 hours of receipt of your new cover and we will  make arrangements to ship the cover back, repair it, and return it to you  promptly. Calls received after 48 hours require payment for shipping  charges.

What states does *FREE SHIPPING apply to?

FREE SHIPPING offer to the following 48 states:
Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine,
Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming


What states/ zip codes does *FREE SHIPPING not apply to?

Alaska add $125.00
Hawaii (depending on which island): add $150.00
New York Zip Codes:
100-104, and 110-119 add $80.00
*If you live in these areas please place your order over the phone

Can I order using manufacturer make/ model only?

Yes. But backup measurements are highly recommended to ensure you receive the right cover. From time to time a manufacturer will re-use a model name and change measurements slightly. We do have templates in stock for the following spa / hot tub manufacturers: Arctic Spas, Alps Spa, Amish County Spa, Aquatic Industries, Aqua Plunge, Atera Any Temp Spas, Arctic Spas, Artesian Spas, Aspen Spas, Avalon Spas, Bahama, Baja Spas, Barefoot Spas, Bay City, Beachcomber Hot Tubs, Beachcraft, Beachport, Blue Pacific Spas, Blue Ridge, Bradford Products, Bullfrog Spas, Cal Spas, California Spas, Caldera Spas, Canadian Hot Tubs, Cascade, Catalina, Centurian, Charisma, Clearwater Spas, Coast Spas, Coleman Spas, Colonial Spas, Columbia, Continental, Country Leisure, Comfort Line, Crown, Crown Leisure, Crown One Spas, Dakota, Del Sol, Diamante, Dimension One, Discovery, Dream Maker, Dolphin, Downeast, Dynasty Spas, Emerald Spas, Factory Select, Freedom Spas, Freeflow Spas, Great Lakes Spas, Guardian Leisure, Gatsby, Goodlife, Great Lakes, Gulf Coast Spas, Hawkeye Manufacturing Spas, Heldor, Holiday Springs, Hot Spring Spas, Hotspring spas, Hotspot, Hydro Spa, Hydropool Hot Tubs, Image, Infinity, Islander, Jacuzzi Hot Tubs, Jason, Jetsetter, Kohler, La Mere, LA Spas, Leisure Bay, Leisure Life, Leisure Spas, Lifestyle, Life Spas, Maax, Marquis Spas, Master Spas, Medallion Pools, Millennium, Morgan Spa, Nespa Enterprise Spas, Nordic Spas, Pacific Composite, PDC Spas, Phoneix Spas, Polynesian, Premium Leisure Spas, PDC Spas, QCA, Resort Spas, Royal Spas, Rio Swim Spas, Robert Hot Tubs, Royal Spa Manufacturing, Safari, Saratoga Spas, Seahorse, Sequoia, Seven Seas, Shoreline Spa, Softub Inc Spas, Solana Spa, Sonoma Hot Tubs, Spas Direct, Stateside Spas, Sun Spa, Sundance Spas, Sunrise, Sunset, Sunwave, Superior Spas, Sweetwater, Swirlway, ThermoSpas, Tidewater, Tiger River, U.S. Forming, United Spas, Vita Spas, Viking Spas, Vita Spa, Waters Edge Spas, White Springs, Xpress Spas

How often does my filter need to be replaced?

This depends on many factors such as the quality of the filter, the chemicals used in your pool, spa or water feature, the average temperature of your water, etc. A good rule of thumb is when you are cleaning the filter with a high pressure water nozzle does it come out bright and white? Does the dirt wash off entirely? Does it have the same shape, size, and strength as when it was new? If the answer is NO it's time for a new filter. For most hot tubs that are heated regularly it's a good idea to replace the filter elements every 18 months.

I cannot find my replacement cartridge filter on your site, what do I do?

Manufacturer's are constantly changing their products and we do our best to keep our list of model numbers up to date. If you are having trouble please measure your cartridge filter then give us a call or email. The 3 measurements you need when calling or emailing are A: Length of cartridge B: OD- (Outer Diameter) C: ID- (Inner Diameter). With these three measurements supplied by you, we can locate the filter you need.

I do not have any numbers on my cartridge filter, what do I do?

You will need to take a few measurements. If you are having trouble please measure your cartridge filter then give us a call or email. The 3 measurements you need are A: Length of cartridge B: OD- (Outer Diameter) C: ID- (Inner Diameter). With these three measurements supplied by you, we can locate the filter you need.

I found another filter online cheaper, can you beat the price?

There are many companies online selling inferior and knock-off products. Therefore they are paying pennies and have enormous markup on something of lesser quality. All of our filters are factory direct and made in the USA.