Spa Cover Got A Wedgie?

Tests conclude major heat loss detected at spa cover “Dual Hinge”.

The portable spa might be getting a bad rap because of the spa cover that was provided when new or similar replacement purchased in the aftermarket.
The culprit is a dual vinyl hinge connecting the two halves that are wedged apart to allow a cover lift bar to support the cover during spa use. These wedged apart foam cores allow heat to escape as witnessed by observing where stray cats sleep at night.

These vinyl pads, “Wedgies”, under the dual hinge are designed to reduce visual steam and keep the foam cores wedged apart, where they eventually become brittle from water sanitizing efforts. Cover lift bars tear the cover stitching and hinge and shorten the life of a spa cover! Black metal lift bars can exceed 170° F in direct sunlight and hasten cover destruction.

Wedged covers show accelerated heat loss outdoors due to evaporation at that dual hinge creating a, “Chimney Effect”.(A 60 degree October eve does not reveal a 32 degree spa cover surface due to evaporation)

A university study using infrared technology showed substantial heat loss at the hinge from wedged spa covers and referred the APSP to the patented Coverplay cover to improve portable spa energy efficiency.(See 2008 Cal Poly Univ. portable spa energy test report to PG&E and APSP)

Spa covers have locking tie down straps for safety but are rarely used. Extending strap length at the rear of the spa where the cover is stored avoids the, detach/attach strap issue. These longer straps inhibit torque during cover removal and create a more insulating seal by accurately replacing the cover on the spa, another Coverplay patent.