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THe cover lifter is not an absolute must, but I would strongly recomend it. Relative to the cost of the spa, they are not that expesive but make the tub alot more enjoyable and prolong the life of the cover (which can cost 2-3 times the cost of the lifter). Putting the lifter on the ground, it get's dirty, and the dirt eventually ends up in the tub. Not to mention the scuff, nicks, cuts and tearing of the handles that can occur when moving it.My first POS tub didn't have a lifter and it was a pain in the butt taking the cover off and on. It was even worse in the winter time. I'd put a few extra bucks aside to get one. It's worth it.
but the gadget that helps take the cover off, is that really necessary?