Hot Tub Cover Questions & Answers

• Your Watkins cover and child-resistant safety locks are UL Classified. This is in accordance with the ASTM F1346-91 Standard for Manual Spa Safety Covers. The UL Classification number is E-173712.
• Your cover meets the requirements for the ASTM Standard static load bearing.
• We are committed to delivering safe products for you and your family.

Monthly cleaning as described below and conditioning as described below will keep your vinyl cover healthy and beautiful.

• Rinse away any loose dirt and debris by spraying it thoroughly with your garden hose.
• Next, scrub the top in a circular motion with a large sponge or a soft bristle brush. We like a soap solution of 1 teaspoon dishwashing liquid mixed into 2 gallons of water, or you can use baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).
• Rinse the top thoroughly with a hose before the soap has a chance to dry making sure to remove all soap residue.
• Follow the same procedure on the perimeter and side flaps and rinse them clean.
• Finally, clean the underside; rinse it without using soap, and wipe it clean with a soft towel or rag.
• TIP: Make sure you avoid getting soap into your hot tub.
• NOTE: If your hot tub has a real redwood cabinet instead of a synthetic redwood cabinet you will need to use a few extra precautions: remove the cover before you clean it, or just use water and no soap. Soap or baking soda on the wood cabinet may cause black spots on the redwood.

• First, clean your cover as described above.
• Next, apply a thin film of Hot Spring FreshWater Cover Shield to the top and sides with a soft cloth.
• You can then buff it to a high luster.
• To keep your cover in it's best condition, follow this procedure before every change of season.
• TIP: Be sure you use a cover conditioner that is formulated to work with vinyl, such as Cover Shield. Many vinyl products can deteriorate your vinyl cover. Check with our service department if you are not sure at 303-296-7727.

• Tree sap can be removed with lighter fluid. Do not use charcoal lighter fluid!
• Use it sparingly and carefully and apply with a clean cloth.
• Immediately afterwards, buff with saddle soap or Hot Spring FreshWater Cover Shield conditioner.
• Wipe dry with a clean cloth.

• Paint cannot be removed once it is dry, as solvents used to remove paint will damage the vinyl.

• Grease and grime can usually be removed with a thorough washing as described above in "How should I clean my cover?".

• It is critical to maintain proper water chemistry for a healthy hot tub and cover, even when closed and not in use. If you have a Hot Spring approved cover lifter attached to your hot tub, please call our service department at 303-296-7727 before you proceed. If you don't have a cover lifter, do the following to eliminate the mildew.
• In one gallon of water, mix one teaspoon of mild dishwashing soap with one cup of bleach.
• With a soft bristle brush, scrub the inside of the cover.
• Next, rinse the inside of the cover thoroughly.
• Leave cover open to dry completely.
• TIP: Before closing the cover on your hot tub, check your water chemistry to be sure it is balanced correctly.
• NOTE: If your cover has extensive mildew damage, please call our service department at 303-296-7727.

• You may need a new cover as these are signs of improper water chemistry. There is no way to repair the vinyl damage. If the foam cores are still in good condition you may be able to just replace the encasement.

• Call our service department at 303-296-7727 to obtain a vinyl repair patch kit. It may be an easy fix you can take care of yourself, or if it is more extensive we can schedule a service call.

• We can order a replacement core for you if your cover is not too old. Age and sun can shrink the cover, in which case it may be wiser to replace your entire cover.

• Make sure your hot tub is sitting on level ground. Once you level it, your water puddle problems may go away.

• It is normal for the bottom vinyl to fade. If, you notice a drastic color change, your water chemistry may not be balanced. Check with us to go over your water care routine.

• During cold weather you should protect your hot tub cover by the following.
• Be sure your water chemistry is healthy and balanced.
• Condition the top of your cover before the cold weather to keep the cover soft and keep if from drying out.
• Remove any large snow accumulation to avoid stress and breakage of the foam cores. Be sure to be gentle with your cover. Avoid sharp rakes or shovels and try a soft broom.
• Vinyl won't stretch as much in extreme cold conditions so be careful with tie-down straps and handles.

• Here are some suggestions from other dog owners that may help.
• A gazebo, privacy wall or fence will keep your dog from easy access.
• Dogs don't like cayenne pepper. Try dusting some around the hot tub perimeter or keep some in a baggie on the cover.
• Your pet store or veterinarian can recommend a spray product that will discourage pets from chewing.

DO...

• Keep your hot tub cover healthy. It is essential to keep your spa clean and ready for your use and enjoyment.
• Keep your chemicals balanced. Improper chemical balance can cause numerous problems to your hot tub cover. Signs of chemical problems can be a drastic color change on the bottom vinyl cover; the vinyl may begin to look like burlap; the vinyl may tear apart easily and flake into the water. This is critical, both for your own health, and the health of your spa. Call our service department at 303-296-7727 for any ongoing concerns.
• Use the reinforced handles to open and close your cover.

DO NOT...

• DO NOT drag or lift the cover using with the flaps or the cover lock straps.
• DO NOT walk, stand, sit, or jump on the cover.
• DO NOT store or keep any objects on top of the cover or place plastic tarps or drop cloths over the cover.
• DO NOT leave foam cores which have been removed from the vinyl encasement in the sun.
• DO NOT use any retractable cover systems, chemicals or cleaners except those recommended by IHT.
• DO NOT leave a retractable cover system open in wind conditions above 10 mph and/or occasional gusts up to 20 mph.
• DO NOT let children climb or play on the cover or be alone in a hot tub without parental supervision.