COLD PLUNGE TUBS FAQs
We’re a family business with outstanding customer service.
We want our clients to be fully supported in their cold plunge journeys! We’ve redirected our careers and lives to bring the benefits of cold plunging to wider and wider circles. We’re so excited to help others along this journey by delivering efficient, well designed, effective and affordable home cold plunges, backed by amazing customer service. We’re here to answer your questions and provide help and support, both before sale and once you have your tub set up. Check out our FAQ topics below!
GENERAL COLD PLUNGE QUESTIONS
The main difference between an ice bath and a cold plunge is the method of cooling the water.
Ice baths require either frequent trips to the store to buy bags and bags of ice to get the water cold enough to achieve sufficient results, or an industrial ice maker at home.
Cold plunges, like our 1/4 horsepower cold plunge, use an electric chiller to keep the water cooled to an optimal 39 degrees.
When you water is electrically cooled, your cold plunge tub is ready any time for a dip, no trips to the store or ice hauling needed.
Cold plunges offer a range of health benefits to some people, including reduction of swelling and inflammation, aiding post-workout recovery, relieving sore muscles, reducing the perception of pain from chronic conditions, increasing immunity, and boosting mental health. Read more about the health benefits of cold plunging.
Cold plunge tubs cycle water through a chiller to create a very cold water bath (the best get down to 39 degrees). Submerging in very cold water or ice baths has been shown to have a wide range of health benefits for some people; people have been using cold water exposure for thousands of years to increase health and healing. See our cold plunges for health page to see the medical studies behind cold plunge benefits.
Desert Plunge Cold Plunges were created when our founder couldn’t find a decent combination of value, performance and reliability in a cold plunge – so he created his own!
Our plunges offer a number of benefits over others on the market: they are child-safe (just close the top and lock!), crafted particularly for very hot climates as well as cooler ones, are hand-crafted, affordable, and come with a one year warranty.
The chiller is connected to the tub and a pump pulls the water from the tub into the chiller, circulating it through the chillers cooling system, then out of the chiller back into the tub. You can set the chiller to your desired temperature, as low as 39 degrees. The chiller will run until it reaches your set temperature then shut off. It will stay off until the water warms back up 2 degrees and then turn back on to begin cooling to your desired temperature again.
The kind of chiller you need for your cold plunge depends on a several factors: how cold you want your plunge to get, whether you set it up indoors or outdoors, how hot a climate you live in, how often your plunge will be used, and how many people will be using it regularly.
Our ¼ horsepower tub cools to 39 degrees in optimal conditions(indoors, or outdoors if stored under cover, protected from the elements, and kept away from direct sunlight), has a cooling speed of 1-4 degrees per hour, and can accommodate 3-4 people per day.
Due to the superior insulation of our tubs our 1/4hp chiller is more than sufficient to keep your water cold and stay cold, even in the hottest climates. Our 1/4hp chiller gets down to 39 degrees, the same as a 1/2hp or 1hp chiller but using less electricity. Most 1hp chillers will require a 20A dedicated circuit while our 1/4hp chiller and pump only draw 6.2A while running.
We have done extensive testing on all-in-one chillers and while they sound great, it is still a newer concept, and the technology is not where we want it to be yet. All components are dependent on each other, if something breaks in an all-in-one, you are having to ship an entire chiller back before receiving a new one and you are out of a cold plunge for weeks or longer.
Yes! We have plenty of customers that have purchased who are 6’7″ and can fully submerge up to their chin. If you want a little extra width on the interior you can choose our wide model.
In optimal conditions (stored inside under climate control, or outside out of direct sunlight and kept under cover) both our Exclusive and Wide plunges get down to 39 degrees. See our plunges
You will need a standard 110V outlet to plug your cold plunge into; it draws 6.5 amps while chiller is running.
If your cold plunge tub is kept at 45 degrees during an Arizona summer, it will cost you roughly $25-$35/month depending the price you pay per kWh with your local utility company.
You can find water treatment options and replacement o-rings for your cold plunge here. We’ve also put together some additional links for filters, etc. here. If you make a purchase through the additional links above, Desert Plunge may receive a small commission on the sale.
To care for your cold plunge, you will want to
- Change filter cartridge – depending on use, every week or two, or once a month. You know your filter needs to be changed if the water flow coming into your plunge slows down or stops, and/or your pump sounds louder than normal (making a loud humming noise.) See more details on filter care above.
- 1/4HP – Clean chiller screens monthly if your plunge is outside. If your plunge is indoors, you should do this every 1-2 months.
- Change your water every 3 months. If you are clean when getting in, and using the Sirona sanitation protocol we recommend or ozone sanitation, your water can stay clean for 3 months. See more tips on keeping the water clean below.
- Clean and inspect your pump – check your pump for build up, hair and debris 1-2 times per year. View the instructions here.
- If your cold plunge is kept outside, Keep it covered and out of direct afternoon sunlight in hot climates. If keeping your chiller outside during the winter, please refer to our care instructions for freezing temperatures.
COLD PLUNGING HEALTH QUESTIONS
People and medical studies report a range of health benefits from cold plunging that include reduced inflammation and swelling, which aids in injury recovery and general systemic inflammation; relief from sore muscles, aiding in post-workout recovery; as a pain reduction technique for chronic conditions including arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia and others; increased joint mobility; immunity strengthening; as well as mental health benefits, including increased feelings of wellbeing, and decreased depression, anxiety, and grief. Some people report no longer needing medication for depression with regular cold water therapy. Results may vary depending on your underlying health conditions.
People and medical professionals report that cold tub plunging can have a number of positive effects on the body including:
- Faster injury recovery & workout recovery
- Reduction of general systemic inflammation
- Managing chronic pain
- Increased joint mobility
- Increased immunity
- Increased energy/focus
- Triggering of dopamine and norepinephrine release
- Fat and weight loss
Your results may vary. Please see our list of medical studies below to see a sampling of what medical professionals have found.
Some medical professionals point to the body’s initial stress response of cold plunging as being the catalyst for other body functions that increase feelings of psychological well being, decrease stress and show changed immune markers.
According to the Mental Health Center of America, “Cold exposure increases the production of a neurotransmitter called norepinephrine (focus, attention, vigilance, mood). As a result, cold therapy can produce a feeling of calm, happiness, and well-being, which can support the mitigation of mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety.”
Another study found significant increases in both noepinephrine and dopamine levels in test subjects after cold water exposure. Noepinephrine and dopamine play important roles in motivation, experiencing pleasure, stress response, sleep and alertness.
A study of the effects of cold water therapy on open air cold water swimmers found after several months “tension, fatigue, memory and mood negative state points in the swimmers significantly decreased.”
Some medical professionals also consider depression to be related to chronic inflammation in the body system, and “sources of inflammation may play a role in other psychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism and post-traumatic stress disorder.” Cold water therapy has been shown in some contexts to reduce overall inflammation through vascular constriction.
This depends on the temperature of the bath, the height and weight of the person, and their general sensitivity levels to cold. Many people gradually increase their cold plunge exposure over time as they become used to regular cold plunging; 3-5 minutes is a general recommendation.
Medical doctors suggest that the initial shock and resulting body response from cold water submersion is what drives health benefits from plunging, and this only takes a few minutes to achieve.
Do what you can and use common sense; hypothermia is possible from over exposure. If you notice skin color changes or you start shivering uncontrollably you should get out of the cold plunge right away.
Cold therapy can be very helpful for some conditions, but we recommend discussing cold plunging with your medical professional before taking it up. Pregnant women and children should not use cold plunges. People with heart conditions, high blood pressure, circulatory problems, or other conditions related to cold sensitivity specifically should discuss whether cold plunging is okay for them with their doctors.
There is debate on how often a person should cold plunge to achieve particular health benefits; it likely depends on what benefits you are hoping for from the experience. If you are using cold plunging to aid after-workout recovery, do it after workouts. Other people do it two or three times a week, others daily, others twice daily.
Many people cold plunge daily or twice daily. It is up to you to determine how often you’d like to do it and how much you can take.
FILTER QUESTIONS
This is a good indicator that your filter cartridge is dirty and needs to be replaced or your drain intake strainer needs to be cleaned. Check out the maintenance tutorial video above for more information.
Locate your filter housing on the back of your plunge. Simply push the white handle towards the plunge and that will put the filter in bypass mode. Unscrew the filter housing, replace the filter cartridge and pull the handle back down.
It depends on how clean you are when you get in, and how many people use your plunge. It could be every week or two or once a month. We do suggest replacing the filter at least once a month. Do not rinse off and re use filters, always replace with new.
Find additional links to purchase filters and other cold plunge accessories here.
This is due to pressure in the lines. You can hold down the red pressure relief valve on the filter housing and it should fill back up. If that doesn’t work, try unscrewing the filter housing slightly, let the water fill up and then screw tight again.
CHILLER QUESTIONS
1. Pop out the two side screens and hose them off.
2. Unscrew the screw on the front bottom of the chiller.
3. Hose the screen off with water, then put it back in place.
We recommend doing this monthly if your plunge is kept outside. If your plunge is kept indoors, you should do this every 1-2 months.
If you live in a climate that drops below freezing in the winter, and you keep your plunge outdoors, you need to take special care of the chiller and other components on your plunge; exposure to freezing temperatures can potentially damage it. You’ll need to do one of the following. Care instructions can be found here.
This could be due to restricted water flow. Check your filter cartridge, does it need to be changed? Also check your intake strainer or inline strainer to be sure they do not need to be cleaned out.
Yes, condensation is normal, especially during the summer and when it is humid. You can purchase pipe insulation from your local hardware store to insulate your pipes to avoid the condensation build up.
This is an example of a response that you might give. It's Keep your chiller on and the temperature you want it set at. It has a 2 degree temperature differential. If you have the chiller set at 45 it will run until it gets to 45 degrees, then shut off and go back up to 47. Once the temp gets to 47 the chiller turns back on and brings the water back down to 45 degrees, It will continue this cycle. If you turn your chiller off for to long, it can take a while for it to get back to temp again.to be as thorough as possible in responses as that has a tendency to improve trust overall.
Be sure the plug strip your chiller is plugged into is on. If it is, unplug your chiller from the power strip and plug it into a separate outlet that you know is working. If the chiller turns back on, the power strip is bad, reach out to service@desertplunge.com.
Check the air coming out of the back of the chiller. Warm/hot air is good. If it is cool air reach out to service@desertplunge.com
PUMP QUESTIONS
Chances are you need to change your filter or clean your drain intake strainer. Sometimes your filter looks clean, but it still needs to be changed since there can be a slime coat that forms on the filter cartridge material. Do not rinse and reuse filters, always replace with a new one. If that doesn’t work, try cleaning your pump.
Follow our guide on how to disassemble and clean your pump.
Yes, this is normal. The pump runs 24/7 to run the water through your filter.
OZONE QUESTIONS
Ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent, which when diluted in water, produces a broad spectrum biocide that helps eliminate bacteria, viruses and cysts, helping to improve water odor and color.
Ozone should be used outside in a well-ventilated area due to potential off-gassing. The ozone generator’s lifespan is estimated between 24-48 months depending on a number of factors.
Please note: The ozone generator should not be operated in temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are using ozone outside in a climate with freezing conditions, be sure to check the ozone tubing for water build up. If the water freezes in the tubing it can block the airflow, causing damage to the ozone generator. If this is a concern, our Sirona water santiation kit would be a good alternative.
No, if it is running constantly you need to switch the button on your timer to the clock mode. If you see your ozone running during the day, but it does shut off, readjust your timer to the correct time of day. It should only run from 12:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Your ozone should plug into the bottom of your timer.
INSTALLATION AND CARE QUESTIONS
Prior to pick up or delivery, you will receive an instructional video on how to put everything together. It should take about 30-40 minutes to set up.
Depending on ambient temperature and humidity, our cold plunge will cool down 2-5 degrees per hour.
To control the temperature, hold down the set button on the chiller until it beeps or flashes, press the up or down buttons to the temperature you desire and then wait 8 seconds until it is no longer flashing. Make sure the green switch is on, on the side of the chiller.
You can find water treatment options and replacement o-rings for your cold plunge here. We’ve also put together some additional links to purchase filters and other items here. If you make a purchase through the additional links above, Desert Plunge may receive a small commission on the sale.
Yes, you can use your plunge outdoors. However, it should be kept under a covered patio, or structure shielding it from the elements. If you choose to place a cover over your chiller, ensure the chiller has proper ventilation. There are also special considerations for your tub needed in cold temperatures.
To care for your cold plunge, you will want to
- Change the filter cartridge – depending on use, change your filter cartridge every 1-4 weeks, we do not recommend going over 4 weeks. You know your filter needs to be changed if the water flow coming into your plunge slows down or stops, and/or your pump sounds louder than normal (making a loud humming noise.) See more details below on filter care.
- Clean chiller screens monthly if your plunge is outside. If your plunge is indoors, you should do this every 1-2 months.
- Change your water every 3 months. If you are clean when getting in, and using the Sirona sanitation protocol we recommend or ozone sanitation, your water can stay clean for 3 months. See more tips on keeping the water clean below.
- If your cold plunge is kept outside in freezing conditions care instructions (See Freezing Temperatures and your cold plunge section below)
Be sure to rinse off well before getting in your plunge. Makeup, soap, lotions, and oils from your body will affect the sanitation of the water.
Only wear a swimsuit in your plunge, anything else is not recommended. Lint and laundry detergent soap will come off your clothing, causing the water to get dirty faster.
Put a mat down in front of your plunge. Don’t walk from where you rinse off to the plunge barefoot, where sandals and take them off right before you get in.
You can try using a “scum bug” to help soak up some of the oils.
Using our Sirona cold plunge sanitation kit is also a good option for sanitation.
You can also purchase a spa vacuum from Amazon to help suck up some of the loose debris that may fall to the bottom of your plunge.
We provide you with a drain adapter that attaches to the return on your plunge. Simply screw it in and attach a standard garden hose, use the plunge pump to drain.
If you live in a climate that drops below freezing in the winter, and you keep your plunge outdoors, you need to take special care of the chiller and other components on your plunge; exposure to freezing temperatures can potentially damage it. You’ll need to do one of the following. Care instructions (See Freezing Temperatures and your cold plunge section below)
FREEZING TEMPERATURES AND YOUR COLD PLUNGE
Your pump is one of the most important pieces of your Plunge, ensuring you have good water flow is key.Inspect and Clean:
- Clean your drain intake strainer frequently for any hair build up or loose debris.
- Monitor your filter cartridge, if your water flow has slowed down or it has been over a month since you changed your filter cartridge, be sure to replace it.
- Inspect your pump for any debris or buildup that might impact performance.
- Click here to find helpful tips on cleaning your pump. Pump should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year.
Keep an eye on the weather forecasts in your area. If you know that temperatures are going to be below 20 degrees consistently or you see the water temperature on your chiller drop below 38 degrees it’s time to take action.
- It is ultimately your responsibility to ensure you protect your plunge from freeze damage. If you have the option to bring your plunge in a garage or inside during the winter months that is your safest bet.
- Freeze damage will happen in extreme cold weather conditions, if you lose power, or if your water flow is to slow or stops flowing in below freezing temperatures.
- If temperatures are consistently between 20-32 degrees and you decide to keep your plunge running outside, be sure to keep a vigilant eye. Ensure water is flowing optimally and follow the “Inspect and Clean” steps above to ensure optimal water flow.
- Keep an eye on the temperature reading on your chiller, if the water temperature is dropping below 38 degrees, its time to drain and store your plunge for the winter, or disconnect your chiller and plumbing components and use the tub only.
- If using the tub only, once you have disconnected your chiller and plumbing components be sure to drain the chiller and components of all water and store for the winter.
- If desired, you can now cap the return and intake holes and keep your plunge full of water and let mother nature do the cooling for the winter.
If temperatures fall below 20 degrees, we suggest you remove all plumbing components; chiller, filter, tubing, pump, and ozone and store for the winter.
- Disconnect your pump, filter, and chiller (ozone generator if you have it) from your plunge.
- After all components are removed, cap/plug the return (hole up high) on your plunge with a 3/4” threaded plug. Any hardware store should have this, but you can Google 3/4 in. PVC Schedule 40-Plug MPT to find multiple options.
- Install the Grizzly drain plug or the rubber plug provided at the intake (bottom hole)
- By plugging/capping the return and intake this will allow you to continue using your tub and let mother nature do the cooling.
- When removing your chiller connections and hoses, be sure to not lose any O rings on the fittings. Drain and store your chiller and components for the winter.
1. Power Down Your Entire System:
- Ensure your entire system, is safely powered down and disconnected from any power source.
2. Disconnect the “In” and “Out” Chiller Connections:3. Turn Your Chiller Upside Down:
- Carefully turn your chiller upside down. This will allow the water to drain out through the “In” and “Out” ports.
- Do not rest the ports on the ground as this could crack the ports from to much weight.
4. Carefully Upright Your Chiller:
- Once you are confident the water has fully drained, carefully turn it right side up.
5. Clean and store your chiller:
- After draining is complete, wipe down the chiller and all internal components.
- Be sure to store the chiller in the upright position and in a dry, temperature-controlled room.
6. Hooking your chiller back up, allow the chiller to rest before turning back on:
- If your chiller was not stored sitting completely upright or it was moved at an angle, it’s essential to let the chiller rest for a minimum of 3 hours prior to turning on. This allows the refrigerant to settle and ensures optimal performance.
- Bypassing this step can lead to a chiller that is not cooling properly.