200-2, Hydraulic Hot Tub Coverlift

The lifter is nice quality, very sturdy and easy to use. The instructions are well written in step-by-step fashion. "Used, like New" indicates that it comes in the original packaging, but the packaging is damaged. It arrived in a box that was re-taped, but in good condition. The contents were in the original plastic sleeves and bubble wrap, so for all intents it was in new condition. I proceeded to install it step by step, drilling holes in the side of my hot tub and into the tubing according to the instructions. When I got to the last step, installation of the gas pistons, I discovered they were missing from the box. I called Amazon customer service, who told me I could return it for a refund. I felt that would not serve me or Amazon since there were now holes in the skirt of our hot tub as well as in the lifter. So they suggested that I contact the manufacturer for the parts, which I did. Although it was not the fault of the manufacturer, but rather Amazon's fault that the product was not as advertised, the manufacturer graciously sent me the missing parts. I informed Amazon of this and they went ahead and discounted the purchase price anyway for my trouble. What started off as a disappointing experience turned out to my great satisfaction. So the customer service is beyond excellent! A very small complaint about the product is that the rubber caps that go over the screws don't stay put. (see photo) I'll try gluing them on, but it seems a minor point. Also, the instructions say to use s 9/64 drill bit to prepare holes for the self-tapping screws. The first suggestion I would make is to drill all the way through the tubing to make two holes at each location, one on each side of the tubing. I made the mistake of drilling one hole, putting a screw in and then drilling the hole on the opposite wall of the tubing. The drill bit hit the first screw and broke. So I removed the screw and used the next smaller drill bit I had, a 1/8" bit, for the remaining holes. The screws actually fit tighter in the 1/8" hole than the 9/64, which I believe makes it stronger. Coordinating the customer service of both Amazon and the manufacturer took some time and effort, but they both made every effort to resolve the problem, making me a satisfied customer.

I have used CoverMate 1 and then 3 for many years. The SpaEase 200 is a much better lifter than the CoverMate 3 in every way and it's not even close. Solid metal parts, good welds, good fasteners on SpaEase: the CoverMate 3 is made out of plastic in places that will warp and fail and the way it holds the spa cover is not ideal—SpaEase 200 addresses all of this and is really a pleasure to assemble and use.If you are on the fence, go with SpaEase 200. If you have a larger spa, spring for the extension bracket kit, as it is excellent and adds a great deal of strength to the appliance. It is refreshing to see a product so well made and with such good instructions and product support. Install took me about half a day, being careful and taking my time: I'm sure it could be done in an hour or so, but I would not recommend that.I am impressed with the product: it looks great, works great, and I beleive it will prove durable.

Seemed so easy...but the box arrived with no mounting parts...over 14 missing pieces and no instructions. I found instructions online after thinking, "I'll just run to the hardware store"...not so easy given product specific teflon nuts, among other things. Now starts the process of trying to get what was clearly a "bag" of mounting equipment which simply wasn't added in the product box during the manufacturing process...or return. What what supposed to be a great help for the family over the holidays has turned into a major pain in the ***.

Easy to put together. The shocks are very helpful when lifting and lowering

Wonderful product but it's only easy to install if you have structure in the right places on your hottub. I did not and had to remove 2 sides, add structure, put them back, and then start the assembly. It took me about 4 hours and I broke 5 drill bits so recommend using the cobalt type designed for super tough metal. Overall this make it super easy to open/lift the cover but be prepared for some hassle to install it.

Update: after a little over a year the hydrolic part broke. This is under covered deck so no elements cery disappointing. Going to rmsee what warranty options.Using for about 6 months now and has been holding up well. It does assist a little in opening but still need a little strength to open and close.

Easy to install if you're handy with tools. I thought it would operate like a new hatchback car lift. While the louvers provide a little assistance, they're not great. I'd give that function a 5 out of 10 rating. The main problem I have is it seems structurally flimsy when you raise with the handle from one side. It twists quite a bit unless you raise both sides evenly with a partner. Not sure it is worth the extra cost vs a standard lift.

Our hot tub cover took on water and broke the coverlift. We ordered this coverlift and my husband (who is NOT AT ALL handy around the house) had it installed in an hour or so. Very sturdy and working well with the new cover...