Ice Bath Water Chillers
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Penguin Chillers Cold Therapy Chiller
Penguin Chillers 1/2 HP Water Chiller
Penguin Water Chiller for Ice Barrel 300/400/500
Penguin Chillers 1 HP Water Chiller
Penguin Chillers 1 ½ HP Water Chiller
Penguin Chillers 2 ½ HP Water Chiller
Penguin Chillers 1 HP High Efficiency Water Chiller
Penguin Chillers 316 Stainless Steel Exchanger Water Chiller
Penguin Chillers ½ HP High Efficiency Water Chiller
Kalm Water Chiller For Cold Plunge
Tru Grit .8HP Ice Box Water Chiller For Cold Plunge
Benefits of using Water Chiller for Your Cold Plunge
When it comes to creating the perfect cold plunge experience, water chillers offer significant advantages over traditional ice-based methods. Let’s explore why more cold therapy enthusiasts are making the switch to water chillers:
Precise Temperature Control
Gone are the days of guessing how much ice you need or waiting for your tub to reach the right temperature. Water chillers allow you to set your desired temperature with pinpoint accuracy. Whether you prefer a brisk 39°F (4°C) or a milder 55°F (13°C), you can achieve and maintain your ideal cold plunge environment at the touch of a button.
Hassle-Free
Imagine preparing for your cold plunge without the need to buy, transport, or manually add ice to your tub. Water chillers eliminate these time-consuming and often messy tasks, allowing you to focus on your therapy rather than the preparation. Simply turn on your chiller, set your temperature, and your cold plunge is ready when you are.
Cost-Effective
While the upfront cost of a water chiller may be higher than a bag of ice, the long-term savings are substantial. Consider the recurring costs of purchasing ice or the energy expenses of constantly running an ice maker. A water chiller offers a one-time investment that pays off with each use, saving you money and effort over time.
Cleaner, Safer Cold Plunges
Many water chillers come equipped with built-in filtration and sanitation systems. This means you’re not just getting cold water, but clean cold water. Unlike ice, which can introduce impurities, a water chiller maintains a closed system, ensuring a hygienic environment for your cold therapy sessions.
Choosing A Water Chiller For Your Ice Bath
Sizing a Chiller For Your Setup
Choosing the right size chiller is critical for optimal performance and efficiency. Selecting a size to small can result in
Several factors influence the sizing of a water chiller:
- Tub Size: Larger tubs contain more thermal mass to cool and maintain at the desired temperature. As a general rule, the larger the tub, the more powerful the chiller needs to be.
- Your Desired Temperature: Lower desired temperatures like 39°F (4°C) will require more cooling power than higher temperatures such as 50°F (10°C).
- Surrounding Air Temperature: Warmer environments, especially for outdoor installations, necessitate more powerful chillers.
- Tub Insulation: Well-insulated tubs retain cold better, reducing chiller workload. Poor insulation requires stronger chillers to compensate.
- How Often the Cold Plunge Will Be Used: More frequent or longer use introduces more heat, requiring higher capacity chillers for consistent temperature maintenance.
When in doubt, it’s better to select the next size up. Undersized chillers may experience additional stress, potentially shortening its lifespan, or may struggle to reach and maintain desired temperatures.
Water Chiller Sizing Chart
Chiller sizes are typically measured in horsepower (HP) or British Thermal Units (BTUs).
When sizing an ice bath water chiller, it’s important to note that horsepower (HP) refers to the cooling capacity of the chiller, not the flow rate of the water. A higher HP indicates a stronger ability to lower the temperature, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it will move water faster.
| Horsepower | Tub Size |
| 1/4 HP | 75 Gallons (284 Liters) |
| 1/2 HP | 120 Gallons (454 Liters) |
| 3/4 HP | 175 Gallons (662 Liters) |
| 1 HP | 200 Gallons (757 Liters) |
| 1.5 HP | 400 Gallons (1,514 Liters) |
| 2 HP | 500 Gallons (1,893 Liters) |
| 2.5 HP | 600 Gallons (2,271 Liters) |
| 3 HP | 800 Gallons (3,028 Liters) |
| 3.5 HP | 1,000 Gallons (3,785 Liters) |
Types of Water Chillers
Water chillers for cold plunge setups come in two main types: Base Model Chillers and All-in-One Cold Plunge Chillers.
Base Model Chillers
This type consist of only the core chiller unit and require additional components like pumps, hoses, and filters. They offer a cost-effective initial investment and allow for extensive customization, making them ideal for DIY enthusiasts or those with specific requirements. These chillers require more technical knowledge for setup but can optimized with customized components.
If you have any questions about buying other components for a DIY build, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
All-in-One Cold Plunge Chillers
These types of chillers are designed specifically for cold plunge and ice bath applications. They come with built-in pumps, filters, ozone sanitation, and other functionalities, making them significantly easier to set up and use. While more expensive, they offer convenience and pre-optimized performance for cold plunge requirements.
Why Choosing a Good Brand Matter
There are a lot of ice bath chillers on the market today, and the brand you pick can make a big difference in how reliable the machine is and how good the support is if you have any problems.
Water chillers can be divided into two main groups: those made in China and those made in the USA.
- Overseas-Manufactured: About 90% of the chillers you see online (including those on Amazon) are made in China and then rebranded. This includes popular brands like Ice Pod, Nuvio, and Warrior Wellness, which all offer similar chillers with different logos. Most of these chillers work well and have lots of features, but their tech support often depends on the manufacturer, which can take weeks (or even months) to solve simple problems.
- American Manufactured: Chillers made in the USA usually have much better after-sale support. If you have issues like shipping damage or need to make a warranty claim, you can expect quick help and fast replacements. This is one of the reasons why we highly recommend Penguin Chillers.
Noise
Water chillers make noise when they run, usually between 50 decibels (about as loud as a refrigerator) to 65 decibels (like an air conditioner). These dB noise ratings are measured from 1 meter (3.2 feet) from the unit.
There are several things that can affect how much noise a chiller makes:
- Chiller Size and Power: Bigger, more powerful chillers are usually louder.
- Design and Technology: Some modern chillers have features to help reduce noise.
- Maintenance: A well-maintained chiller will often run more quietly than one that isn’t taken care of.
- Installation: Proper installation, including reducing vibrations, can help lower the noise.
- Environment: The environment around the chiller affects how the noise is heard. Things like whether the chiller is inside or outside, nearby walls or buildings, the type of ground (hard or soft), and even the weather can all change how loud the noise seems. Outdoor setups usually spread out the noise better, while indoor setups might make it echo more. Hard surfaces reflect sound, while soft surfaces absorb it.
- Time of Day: It’s usually quieter at night, so the chiller noise may be more noticeable then.
When picking a chiller, it’s important to think about these factors so you can choose a model that fits your noise preferences and works well in your space.
How to Install a Water Chiller
Installing your water chiller correctly is key to making sure it works well and lasts a long time. In this section, we’ll show you the best ways to place, connect, and prime your chiller to get the best performance and avoid problems.
Chiller Placement & Location
Where you place your chiller can significantly effect the effectiveness and lifespan of your unit. When choosing a chiller and setting it up, be sure to follow these guidelines.
General Placement
- Allow 6 inches of clearance on the sides and top, and 12 inches at the back for airflow. Proper airflow is crucial for efficient operation and to prevent overheating.
- Place the chiller close to your tub, ideally within 3-4 feet. Longer distances increase pump workload and reduce cooling efficiency.
- Ensure the chiller is on a level, stable surface to prevent vibrations and maintain efficiency.
- Keep the chiller away from heat sources to maintain optimal performance.
- Check your unit’s manual as requirements can vary depending on the make and model of your chiller.
Indoor Placement
- The chiller and tubing produce condensation, so avoid placing it on surfaces that can’t get wet, like hardwood floors. Use a drip tray or mat to catch excess moisture and protect surfaces.
- Position the chiller in a well-ventilated space to help dissipate warm air and prevent overheating.
Outdoor Placement
- Ensure your chiller is outdoor-rated. Some models are not designed to get wet.
- Place it under a covered area or build an enclosure to protect it from rain, snow, and direct sunlight, which can prolong its lifespan and effectiveness.
- Make sure the enclosure has adequate ventilation to maintain airflow and prevent overheating.
- Use a stable surface, like a concrete pad, to minimize vibrations and prevent water accumulation.
Secure Connections
Ensuring that all connections between the chiller, pump, and tubing are tightly secured is crucial to avoid issues. Loose connections can allow air to enter the system, leading to water flow problems and potentially causing permanent damage to the chiller or other components.
To prevent this, use hose clamps or other suitable fittings to properly secure the tubing and create a tight seal. For threaded connections, use Teflon tape or another type of thread sealant to ensure a leak-free fit.
Regularly inspect all connections, especially during installation, to confirm there are no leaks or loose fittings. If you notice air bubbles in the water or reduced water flow, check all connections immediately to prevent potential damage.
Priming Your Chiller
Priming your chiller is essential to keep the water flowing properly and maintain the correct temperature. If you don’t prime it correctly, air can get trapped, reducing water pressure and flow, and potentially damaging parts like the pump and chiller. Some chillers have a “self-priming” feature, but it doesn’t always work well.
To be safe, always manually prime your chiller when:
- Setting up your chiller for the first time
- Draining the water for cleaning or changing
- Moving your chiller to a new location
- Disconnecting a hose
Priming Procedure
There are several ways to manually prime your system, but our preferred method is as follows:
- Initial Setup: Ensure all hoses and connections are secure and free of leaks. Place the chiller in its designated spot on a flat, stable surface with good ventilation.
- Fill the Ice Bath: Fill your ice bath until the water level is just below the top port that returns water to the tub. This initial fill helps create the pressure needed to expel air from the system.
- Prime the Hoses: Position the hose you’re using to fill the tub firmly against the bottom port on the tub that pulls water to the chiller. Hold it in place until water flows out of the top port, indicating that air has been removed and the system is fully primed.
- Complete the Filling Process: Once the hoses are primed, continue filling the ice bath to your desired level—ideally over the top port.
- Activate the Chiller: Turn on the chiller once everything is primed and filled. Monitor the system for a few minutes to ensure proper water circulation and check for leaks.
Regular priming is an easy but important task that helps prevent issues and extends the life of your chiller. A well-maintained chiller will improve your ice bath experience and protect your investment.
Maintaining a Water Chiller
Proper maintenance is crucial to keep your water chiller functioning efficiently and to extend its lifespan. Neglecting regular upkeep can lead to decreased performance, unexpected breakdowns, and costly repairs. Follow these detailed maintenance tips to ensure your chiller stays in top condition.
General Maintenance Tips
- Check Filters: If your chiller has water filters, inspect them monthly to ensure they are free from debris and blockages. Clean or replace filters as needed—dirty filters can reduce water flow, cause damage from overheating, and lead to increased energy consumption. Keeping the filters clean is one of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain optimal performance.
- Inspect Hoses and Connections: Regularly inspect all hoses and connections for signs of wear, leaks, or blockages. Look for cracks, loose fittings, or areas showing signs of aging. Replace any damaged parts immediately to avoid water leakage or air getting into the system, which could reduce efficiency. It’s also a good idea to make sure all clamps and fittings are securely tightened to prevent future problems.
- Preventive Measures: Take preventive measures to protect your chiller from environmental factors that could lead to damage. For example, keep the area around the chiller clear of debris to ensure good airflow, and use a cover if it’s placed outdoors to protect it from harsh weather. Make sure that the chiller is positioned on a stable surface to reduce vibrations, which can lead to vibration-wear over time.
- Seasonal Maintenance: If you use your chiller seasonally, make sure to perform a thorough check before and after the season. Before storing the unit, drain any remaining water to prevent mold and mildew, and store it in a dry place. At the start of the season, check all connections, filters, and components to make sure they are in good working order before using the chiller again.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the exterior of your chiller regularly to remove dust, dirt, and grime that can obstruct airflow and impact performance. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the unit and avoid harsh chemicals that might damage the surface or internal components.
Keep an eye on your chiller’s performance by monitoring for water flow issues, difficulty holding temperature, or unusual noises. These issues can indicate potential problems such as a poorly primed system, coolant leaks, blockages, or pump issues that need attention. Early detection can prevent larger and more costly repairs down the road.
If you notice any of these issues, revisit each of the above maintenance tips above to see if that resolves the problem.
Consistent maintenance will not only help your chiller perform at its best but also protect your investment and prolong the lifespan of the unit, allowing you to get the most out of your cold plunge setup for years to come.
Cold Weather Use & Off-Season Storage
While chillers are designed for everyday outdoor use, freezing temperatures can cause serious damage.
Bring your chiller indoors before temperatures drop below 45-55°F. At these temperatures, your cold plunge water will likely stay cold enough without the chiller, and you can avoid the risk of unexpected freezing.
Your chiller contains an internal heat exchanger with coils for cooling the water. If water is left inside and temperatures drop below freezing, the water can expand and cause the heat exchanger to burst. Unfortunately, freezing damage is often not covered by warranties, so it’s important to prevent it.
How to Protect Your Chiller
Before temperatures drop, take these steps to keep your chiller safe:
- Empty It Out: Tilt your chiller to drain as much water as possible.
- Remove Excess Water: Use a wet/dry shop vac to remove any remaining water.
- Bring It Indoors: Move your chiller to a warm, climate-controlled space, like a garage or basement.
What About Water Chillers with Heating Functionality?
Some units come with heating capabilities, but we strongly advise against using these to keep your tub from freezing in cold temperatures.
If there’s a power outage, the heating function will fail, leaving the water vulnerable to freezing. Even with heating, there’s still a risk of localized freezing in parts of the system that aren’t adequately circulated. Many warranties do not cover damage caused by freezing, emphasizing the importance of proper winterization.
If freezing is a concern, it’s best to store your chiller for the season and use something like a stock tank or pond heater to keep your water from freezing.
Why Buy From Plunge Junkies
At Plunge Junkies, we offer the largest selection of water chillers and other cold plunge equipment online, all backed by our expert knowledge and exceptional customer service. We only work with brands we trust and would personally use, ensuring you receive the highest quality products available.
Expertise You Can Trust
We’re not just a retailer—we’re cold plunge and sauna enthusiasts. Our team, including founders Ryan Brown and Ethan Nelson, spends countless hours researching the best products and staying up to date on the latest cold therapy trends and scientific studies. We bring this expertise to every product we offer, ensuring you get the best solutions available.
Personalized Support Every Step of the Way
We pride ourselves on offering the best customer service in the industry. We live and breathe ice baths and saunas, and we’re here to help, whether you’re a customer or simply looking for advice. Have questions or building your own DIY cold plunge? Let us know—we’re happy to assist. Feel free to reach out here anytime via phone, text, email, or chat—we typically respond within minutes during business hours.
We work directly with many popular brands, ensuring you receive fast, knowledgeable support.
Competitive Pricing & Flexible Financing
We’re committed to offering the best value on high-quality products. We offer a lowest price guarantee—found a better deal elsewhere? Let us know! We’ll match it to ensure you get the best value for your wellness investment. We also offer flexible financing plans to make investing in your health easier and more affordable