Author Topic: HS cover lifter-which is "better"? (Read 2980 times)

kervis · « **on:** May 25, 2006, 07:06:50 am »

My Vanguard will come in a month. I can still change my mind about the cover lifter and am looking for some help. I am a big fan of keeping it simple as then less can go wrong, but I also want it to be easy to use. When I tried them in the store, I thought both were fine, but now I am thinking about longevity. The spa will be out in the open, so I don't have any restrictions there. Do I get the simple one or do I get the Covercradle with the gas springs? If/when the gas springs are shot, wouldn't it be just like using the other lifter with no gas springs? I wouldn't HAVE to replace them, would I? So should I get the "fancier" one and have things easier for as long as it lasts?! Will either cover lifter restrict my future replacement cover purchases? (I noticed that the gas springs one had a little bar running partway through the seam on either side.) Does either cover put more wear and tear on the center seam? With a cover lifter, does that matter? I'd like something really durable that I won't have to worry about. Thanks!

Hot Tub Forum · « **on:** May 25, 2006, 07:06:50 am »

wmccall · « **Reply #1 on:** May 25, 2006, 07:43:48 am »

I've not had any experience with specifically HS lifters. While simpler is frequently better, even the most elaborate lifter is not that difficult as the process is pretty simple anyway. A better lifter will definitely mean you will use your tub more. Do you have kids? Its always nice when one person can use the lifter. Changing the shocks might be the worst part, but I'm sure it won't be that difficult.

I recently said,as it applied to me in another thread, "Why spend $7000 on a spa and $75 on a lifter.

kervis · « **Reply #2 on:** May 25, 2006, 08:02:02 am »

I was hoping you would reply--I had just seen the pics of your covermate! I really like that it doesn't fasten to the cabinet. I think that all of the HS lifters fasten into the cabinet. It came with my package, and I can pick whatever I want, but I like your theory of getting a great lifter to go with the great spa! Yes, I anticipate the kids will be using it (11,9,7) so easier may be better for all of us. What is the typical life of those gas shocks? Thanks.

Zep · « **Reply #3 on:** May 25, 2006, 08:47:44 am »

re: "I really like that it doesn't fasten to the cabinet"

Kervis...I just orderd this one and will let ya know how I like it once it is installed.

http://www.spinternational.ca/english/PDF/Fiche%20Versalift.pdf

hymbaw · « **Reply #4 on:** May 25, 2006, 01:46:07 pm »

My favorite HS lift is the Lift-N-Glide. Simple, sturdy, no gas assist, works well.

hottub.pool_boy · « **Reply #5 on:** May 25, 2006, 04:49:54 pm »

We prefer the covercradle. Requires 28" behind the spa to operate.

Vanguard · « **Reply #6 on:** May 25, 2006, 07:58:41 pm »

Go with the Cover Cradle or the Cover Cradle II. The CCII has only one gas shock and is a bit cheaper.

Even though the lifter attaches to the cabinet, I think it is a superior lifter. I worry about the lifters that have a bar over the middle seams. Just seems like it would put more stress on the seams. The HSS covers have a metal plate that the CC attaches to.

As the old saying goes, pay me now or pay me later. Go ahead and get the good one now and enjoy it for years to come.

Gomboman · « **Reply #7 on:** May 25, 2006, 10:10:56 pm »

If you have room go with the Covercradle. I love mine. The Cradle won't damage your cover since the bar is mounted to the side of the cover--it doesn't touch the top surface like most brands. You must have this confused with a different lifter. Don't skimp on a cheap lifter, otherwise, you'll be buying another one in the near future.

Hot Tub Forum · « **Reply #7 on:** May 25, 2006, 10:10:56 pm »

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