For those passionate about cold exposure, getting an ice maker for your ice bath will allow you to consistently have enough ice. There are tons of options so to help, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the top-rated ice makers for your cold therapy needs.
For most ice bath enthusiasts, the LIFEPLUS Commercial Ice Maker is the best bang for your buck ice maker on the market for keeping a constant supply of ice. With its impressive 70 lbs per day production capacity and large 10 lb ice bin storage, it can readily keep up with the demands of frequent ice baths.
Whether you’re an occasional plunger or a dedicated cold therapy enthusiast, we also have other recommendations ranging from compact units that produce moderate amounts of ice to industrial-grade machines capable of churning out large quantities.
Whatever your ice bath habits, we have an ice maker for you on this list.
What are the Best Ice Makers for Ice Baths?
- Best for Large Ice Blocks: Ice Block Molds
- Best for 30-40 Lbs Daily: AGLUCKY Nugget Ice Maker
- Best For 40-50 Lbs Daily: EUHOMY Ice Cube Maker Machine
- Best For 50 To 70 Lbs Daily: LIFEPLUS Commercial Ice Maker
- Best For 70 To 100 Lbs Daily: EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker
- Best For 100 To 150 Lbs Daily: SILONN Commercial Ice Maker
- Best For 200 To 400 Lbs Daily: EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker
1. Ice Block Molds (7-Pound Blocks)
Best for Large Ice Blocks
Best Deals:
Features:
- Produces 7-pound ice block
- Last 5X longer than regular ice cubes
- Easy to stack and store
- Reusable and dishwasher safe
- Dimensions 5” x 6.75” x 11.5”
When it comes to elevating your cold therapy experience at home, not all ice is created equal. For those who take their ice baths and cold plunges seriously, traditional ice cubes may not always make the cut.
Enter the Ice Block: a game-changer for sustained, deep cold in your personal rejuvenation sessions.
This steel-reinforced silicone mold allows you to produce extra-large 7 lb blocks of ice, which boast a lifespan of 5 times longer than their cubed counterparts. Whether you’re looking to maintain a consistently cold temperature during prolonged ice baths or seeking to avoid the hassle of constantly adding more ice, the Ice Block has got you covered.
With dimensions of 5” x 6.75” x 11.5”, the Ice Block’s design ensures that you can stack them. It’s sized to fit most standard freezers, making it a convenient home-use option.
Ease of use is another cornerstone of the Ice Block’s design— add water and place it in your freezer. Once frozen, you have a formidable ice block that won’t require a Herculean effort to move.
The Ice Block is also portable and dishwasher-safe, making it a breeze to clean and store. Its durability ensures that you can count on this accessory time and time again for your cold therapy needs.
While ice cubes might chill water more quickly, they fall short in providing a stable cold environment due to rapid melting, which can disrupt the tranquil, steady cold needed for effective ice baths.
For frequent cold therapy enthusiasts, the Ice Block presents excellent utility. By owning multiple Ice Blocks, you can create and maintain a steady supply of ice blocks, avoiding the need for a bulky, electricity-consuming ice machine. This not only preserves counter real estate but also reduces energy expenses, making it an intelligent, space-saving, and eco-friendly option for continuous chilled bathing.
2. AGLUCKY Ice Maker (35 Lbs Daily)
Best for 30-40 Lbs Daily
Best Deals:
Features:
- Production Rate: 35 lbs/day
- Storage: 1.5 lbs
- Water Capacity: 1.1L
- Type of Ice: Pebble
- Noise: 36dB
The AGLUCKY Nugget Ice Maker is a small frosty powerhouse, delivering up to 35 pounds of pellet ice per day with an ice basket that holds 1.5 lbs, ensuring a steady stream for your ice bath needs. With fast, continuous ice production, ice starts dropping within about 7 minutes, significantly reducing wait times.
Its compact design (8.66 x 11.3 x 12.68 inches) makes it an ideal addition to any indoor space, while the 36dB noise level means it operates almost silently, minimizing disruption. Operation is simple, with a one-button system to start/stop and an equally effortless self-cleaning function, activated by holding the same button for five seconds.
The machine’s indicators are clear and helpful: the ‘ICE FULL’ light informs you when to empty the basket, and the ‘ADD WATER’ light reminds to refill, negating guesswork. The 1.1L water capacity strikes a balance between ample volume and maintaining a modest size, though frequent refills may be needed for uninterrupted use.
Portability is thoughtfully addressed with a handy ice basket for easy transport of ice cubes, and a scoop holder on the back keeps accessories organized. This combination of efficiency, convenience, and sleek design makes the AGLUCKY ice maker an effective tool for those in need of moderate quantities of ice for their cold plunge tub without hassle.
3. EUHOMY Ice Machine (45 Lbs Daily)
Best for 40-50 Lbs Daily
Best Deals:
Features:
- Production Rate: 45 lbs/day
- Storage: 2.6 lbs
- Water Capacity: 3.2L or 3-gallon water jug
- Type of Ice: Cube
- Noise: 45dB
The EUHOMY Ice Cube Maker Machine is a versatile addition to any cold plunge routine that requires regular and substantial quantities of ice. With the capability to produce an impressive 44 pounds of ice cubes every 24 hours—dispensing 24 cubes per cycle within 12 to 18 minutes—this machine is great at keeping up with the high demands of filling ice baths, ensuring that there’s always enough ice on hand.
Adjustability is key; the EUHOMY allows users to customize the ice cube thickness. This feature is particularly beneficial for ice baths as thicker cubes melt slower, maintaining the cold temperatures for prolonged periods. This control over ice density means a more sustained and effective cold plunge experience.
Its large 3.2-liter water tank is a practical feature, reducing the frequency of refills. Furthermore, the innovative option to connect a 3-gallon water bucket directly to the machine simplifies the process even more, keeping the machine stocked and ready for high-yield ice production.
The inclusion of an LCD display and an intuitive automatic cleaning function underscores the user-friendly design, allowing for straightforward operation and maintenance.
However, the 2.6lbs ice basket capacity might necessitate regular clearing during extensive ice-making sessions, which could be a slight inconvenience if you take regular or even daily ice baths.
In terms of installation and space management, its compact size (14.2″D x 9.9″W x 14.6″H), quiet operation (45db), and energy-efficient 110 watts usage ensure that the EUHOMY Ice Cube Maker is both unobtrusive and economical. The 12-month warranty and lifetime support underscore its reliability, making it an investment that’s backed by a plethora of positive user experiences, evident from the multitude of 5-star reviews.
4. LIFEPLUS Ice Maker (70 Lbs Daily)
Best for 50 to 70 Lbs Daily
Best Deals:
Features:
- Production Rate: 70 lbs/day
- Storage: .22 Cu.Ft. ice bin (10 pounds)
- Water Capacity: Water line or 5-gallon water jugs
- Type of Ice: Cube
- Noise: 45dB
The LIFEPLUS Commercial Ice Maker is where serious cold plunge junkies go when they need a steady and abundant supply of ice, producing an impressive 70LBS of ice cubes in 24 hours and crafting 32 clear ice cubes every 11 to 20 minutes. This high-yield performance is ideal for filling up an ice bath without the wait.
Maintenance is hassle-free thanks to the self-cleaning function, which is essential for those who use the ice maker extensively and want to ensure their ice bath stays clean.
Connecting the machine is straightforward and gives you two ways to connect water—directly to a water line or via water jugs—allowing for flexible placement and setup without additional installation costs—a practical feature for those who may need to move their ice supply closer to their bath setup.
The ice bin’s capacity is quite large, holding roughly 10-11 pounds of ice. This means less time spent refilling and more time focusing on the recovery benefits of your ice bath. While the machine doesn’t keep ice frozen indefinitely, the insulating layer slows down melting, granting a buffer to transfer ice to the bath or a freezer for later use.
A unique feature is the adjustable ice thickness, enabling the creation of larger cubes that last longer in an ice bath, providing sustained cold temperatures for the full duration of the plunge.
At a quiet 40-45 dB, the ice maker won’t intrude on the peaceful atmosphere that can be integral to the ice bath experience.
Finally, its dimensions (14.1 x 13.8 x 24.8 inches) make it a practical choice for any setting, and the energy-efficient operation on a standard 110 V outlet ensures it’s as economical as it is effective.
5. EUHOMY Ice Machine (99 Lbs Daily)
Best for 70 to 100 Lbs Daily
Best Deals:
Features:
- Production Rate: 99 lbs/day
- Storage: 33 lbs
- Water Capacity: Hooked to water line
- Type of Ice: Cube
- Noise: 45dB
The EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker is a powerhouse, producing an impressive 99 lbs of ice daily and storing 33 lbs, ensuring you’re never short on supply. It has an ETL certification, which is a significant advantage for those offering ice bath or cold plunge services.
The unit’s intelligent LCD panel allows you to easily control the machine and it displays the ambient temperature—a critical feature that helps in maintaining optimal ice-making efficiency.
Customization is at your fingertips, allowing the size of the ice cubes to be adjusted by changing the ice-making time, thus providing the ideal cube size for varying bath requirements.
Maintenance is straightforward with the automatic cleaning function, a single button press ensures the machine remains in top condition. Despite its powerful compressor, it operates within a 50-55 dB noise level, ensuring a quiet operation that won’t disrupt the tranquility of a spa or home environment.
The Euhomy ice maker produces cube-shaped ice, a preferred type for ice baths due to their slower melt rate, thus extending the cold. Although installation requires both a water input and drain output, this setup is typical for such high-efficiency models.
A noted limitation is that the ice will gradually melt within the storage bin, necessitating timely transfer to a freezer or immediate use. Nonetheless, for those needing a reliable, continuous supply of ice, the Euhomy stands out as a capable and efficient choice.
6. SILONN Ice Machine (150 Lbs Daily)
Best for 100 to 150 Lbs Daily
Best Deals:
Features:
- Production Rate: 150 lbs/day
- Storage: 33 lbs
- Water Capacity: Water Line
- Type of Ice: Cube
- Noise: 50dB
The Silonn Commercial Ice Maker is a formidable machine for any cold water fanatic requiring substantial ice for their plunge tub ventures. Producing an astonishing 150 lbs of ice daily and equipped with a 33 lbs storage capacity, this machine meets the rigorous demands of even the most hardcore enthusiast.
The Silonn’s ice maker has a straightforward panel that simplifies operation. With the timer adjustment feature, you can customize the ice thickness to your preference, from thin to thick, ensuring that the cubes last as needed.
A standout feature is the alert system that sounds when water levels are low, prompting a timely refill to maintain uninterrupted ice production. This system can be hooked up to a waterline.
Maintenance is a breeze thanks to the self-cleaning function, which ensures the machine remains sanitary and functional without the hassle of hand scrubbing your unit.
While compact with dimensions of 17x16x31 inches, it is relatively heavy at 68 pounds and requires 320 watts, but its efficiency and positive feedback for its ice-making capabilities overshadow this. Excellent U.S.-based customer care adds to the overall positive experience of owning this robust ice maker.
7. EUHOMY Ice Maker (400 Lbs Daily)
Best for 200 to 400 Lbs Daily
Best Deals:
Features:
- Production Rate: 400 lbs/day
- Storage: 250 pounds
- Water Capacity: Water line
- Type of Ice: Cube
- Noise: 55dB
If you are done piddling around and just want something that will produce glaciers at will, this EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker is your ice-flinging huckleberry.
With the capability to churn out an insane 400 pounds of ice per day and with each cycle producing 160 ice cubes, this machine is an ice-cold workhorse. It’s perfect for those crazy enthusiasts who need a steady and substantial supply of ice cubes for their ice baths.
Equipped with a quick ice-making cycle that ranges from 8-15 minutes and allows for adjusting the ice cube size with simple (+) or (-) buttons, users can customize the cube size to small, medium, or large. This feature is ideal because larger cubes tend to last longer—keeping your ice bath cooler for extended periods.
The LCD panel enhances the experience by providing functions such as 1-24 hour timing, full ice reminders, and a self-cleaning option—all adding to the convenience of operation.
Crafted from high-quality materials and advanced technology, the EUHOMY Ice Maker is not just durable but also integrates insulation technology to preserve the ice’s temperature, ensuring your ice bath has a consistent ice supply when you need it.
The ice storage is very large with a 250-pound bin, allowing flexibility for ice bath timing without the worry of supply, and the machine maintains a noise level of approximately 50 to 55 dB, so it shouldn’t become a disturbance.
Despite its many positives, the significant size of the machine, standing at 63.2 inches in height, could be a drawback for those with limited space.
The EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker, backed by nearly 1000 positive customer ratings and commendable customer service, assures satisfaction with a one-year warranty, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for an uninterrupted ice supply.
How to Make Your Ice More Effective
The secret to a more potent ice bath lies not just in having ice, but in having ice that’s as cold as possible. While the standard freezing point of water is 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius), your home freezer typically operates at around 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius). This means that freshly made ice won’t be at the freezer’s lowest temperature immediately; it needs time to settle and cool further.
Taking the time to let your ice sit in the freezer for an additional day or two can have a significant impact on its temperature. This means when you add your ice to the bath, it won’t just melt; it will actively draw more heat out of the water, lowering the temperature of your bath more efficiently.
To efficiently create, store, and lower your ice to these optimal cold therapy temperatures, consider utilizing reusable ice-making products like Perfectware Icebags. They are designed for easy use and can help your ice reach and maintain this ultra-cold state, ready for when you need it most.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Ice Machine
Choosing the right ice machine for your ice baths isn’t just about avoiding a financial misstep; it’s about ensuring that your recovery routine is as efficient and effective as possible.
In this section, we’ll navigate through the essential considerations, ensuring that you invest in an ice maker that not only suits your current demands but also serves you reliably as your needs evolve.
1. Capacity and Production Rate
For an ice bath enthusiast, the machine’s capacity and production rate are crucial. You need a machine that aligns with your recovery routine. If you’re plunging daily or hosting sessions for multiple users, a machine that churns out at least 100 pounds of ice per day might be essential.
On the flip side, casual users might be satisfied with a lower-capacity model. Gauge your frequency and intensity of use – there’s no sense in investing in a high-output machine if a mid-range model can meet your cooling needs without leaving excess ice to melt away.
Here are a few considerations when determining how much ice you need:
- The volume of the tub: The amount of water the cold plunge tub can hold directly influences the amount of ice needed. More water requires more ice to lower the temperature to a desired level.
- Desired temperature: The temperature you want to achieve in the ice bath will determine how much ice you should add. If you’re aiming for a temperature significantly below the water’s starting temperature, you’ll need more ice.
- Starting temperature of water: If the tap water is already quite cold, you’ll need less ice than if the tap water is warm or at room temperature.
- Ambient temperature: The temperature of the surrounding environment can affect how quickly the ice melts and, thus how much ice you need. On a hot day, you might need more ice to achieve and maintain a cold temperature compared to a cooler day.
- Insulation of the tub: If the tub is well-insulated, it will require less ice to cool the water and maintain the temperature.
- Duration of the bath: The length of time you plan to spend in the ice bath may also influence the amount of ice you need. For a longer bath, you may need more ice to keep the temperature steady.
Also be sure to check out our dedicated guide “How Much Ice for an Ice Bath” for more guidance on ice quantity, as well as a handy calculator to help you out!
2. Ice Quality and Consistency
The ice should be of a consistency that cools the water efficiently without posing a risk of bruising due to oversized or irregular pieces. Clear, hard ice typically lasts longer and provides a sustained cold temperature, crucial for the full duration of an ice bath. Machines that produce cloudy, softer ice might necessitate more frequent refills since the ice may melt faster, which is less ideal for back-to-back sessions or prolonged exposure required for therapeutic ice baths.
3. Noise Levels
In a therapeutic setting like ice bathing, a noisy ice machine can be disruptive. Look for a unit that promises low decibel operation. The serene silence will allow you to focus on your breath and the mental discipline that ice baths often require, enhancing the overall calming experience rather than detracting from it with mechanical rumbles.
4. Adjustable Ice Thickness
This might seem minor, but the thickness of your ice can impact the temperature and duration of your ice bath. Thicker ice melts more slowly, maintaining the cold for longer sessions. Select a machine that offers adjustable ice thickness settings, giving you the flexibility to cater to individual preferences and seasonal variations – thinner in cooler months, thicker when it’s warmer.
5. Ease of Use and Cleaning
The machine should be user-friendly, not a puzzle each time you need ice. It should have intuitive controls for setting up ice production cycles, and cleaning should be straightforward. A model with an easy-to-clean design minimizes the time you spend on maintenance, ensuring you have more time for recovery and less time tinkering with machine parts.
6. Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
Consider the machine’s energy consumption, as it will be running frequently to replenish your ice supply. Energy-efficient models may come with a higher upfront cost but can lead to significant savings on your utility bills over time. Moreover, efficient ice production means less water and energy waste, which is not only good for your wallet but also better for the environment.
7. Installation and Setup
An ice machine for ice baths should not require complex installation. Portable and freestanding models generally offer ease of installation; you simply plug them in and start the ice production. If a water line connection is necessary, consider whether you’ll need professional help or if it’s a manageable DIY project. Be clear about what the installation entails before making a purchase to avoid unexpected hassles or costs.
Ice Makers vs Water Chiller For Ice Bath
When it comes to maintaining the crisp, cool temperatures required for ice baths, two main contenders emerge: ice makers and water chillers. Each system brings its own set of advantages and considerations.
Ice makers are the more traditional option, dedicated to producing ice that can be added directly to a bath. The key benefit lies in their ability to generate a large volume of ice, which, when added to water, cools it rapidly to the desired temperature. This method offers the sensory experience of submerging in ice-cold water with floating ice, which many find invigorating and mentally stimulating.
However, the reliance on a physical product (ice) necessitates storage space and regular production, which can become a hassle. Additionally, there’s the task of physically transferring ice to the bath, which can be labor-intensive.
Feature Water Chillers Ice Makers Cooling Method Directly cools the water Produces ice to be added to the water Cooling Speed Slow initially, few after to desired temps Depends on amount of ice Temperature Control Precise temperature settings available Less precise, depends on ice amount Installation Connection of a few hoses Generally simple, just plug in and use Maintenance Some cleaning, filter changing Requires periodic cleaning, ice bin emptying Space Requirement Relatively compact Requires space for ice production and storage Cost Generally more expensive upfront Varied, from affordable to high-end models Energy Efficiency Usually more energy-efficient Can be less efficient due to ice production Frequency of Use Ideal for frequent, controlled use Depends on size of ice maker Portability Less portable, often fixed installation More portable, can be moved as needed Filtration Circulates and filters water No filtration, relies on water quality Labor Required Initial setup, some adjustments Regular transportation of ice to bath
Ultimately, the choice between an ice maker and a water chiller boils down to personal preference, frequency of use, and the value placed on convenience. Those seeking the traditional ice bath experience with the tangible presence of ice might lean towards an ice maker, while individuals prioritizing ease of maintenance and consistent temperature control might favor water chillers.
At Plunge Junkies, we pride ourselves on hosting the largest collection of ice bath water chillers, catering to every preference and ensuring you find the perfect fit for your ice bath regimen.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right ice maker for your ice bath routine is key to achieving those chilling temperatures that can be “oh-so rejuvenating.” With options ranging from compact machines that produce a couple dozen pounds per day to industrial workhorses churning out hundreds of pounds, there’s an ice maker out there for every need and budget.
For most home ice bath enthusiasts, a mid-range commercial unit like the LIFEPLUS is a great pick, with its robust 70lb daily output and generous storage bin. This gives you the power to keep your tub well-stocked without overbuying the capacity you won’t use.
Ultimately, match your machine to your ice bath frequency. Casual or occasional bathers can get by with an entry-level model, while ice bath junkies will appreciate the convenience of an industrial-strength ice maker’s high production rates.
And don’t forget—quality thick ice lasts longer, so look for adjustable cube sizes. With the right ice maker, you’ll be set up to chill out in style.