Best water chillers for cold plunge: Cold plunge therapy is becoming more popular because it helps with recovery, improves blood flow, and refreshes the body. Whether you’re an athlete needing quick muscle recovery or just want to boost your well-being, a good water chiller can make your cold plunge or ice bath even better. In this guide, we’ve gathered the 5 best water chillers on Amazon.com to help you find the right one to keep your plunge at the perfect temperature.
First, let’s talk about the benefits of cold plunge and then we will provide you with top choices to make your cold therapy sessions more effective and enjoyable.
What is a cold plunge?
A cold plunge, or cold water immersion, means sitting in cold water, usually between 50°F (10°C) and 59°F (15°C), for a short time. Athletes often use it for recovery but it is also popular among people who want to improve their health.
Benefits of a Cold Plunge
- Reduce Muscle Pain: Cold plunges can help reduce muscle soreness and swelling after exercise. The cold helps shrink blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and remove waste from muscles.
- Better Blood Circulation: Switching between cold and warm water can boost blood flow and improve heart health because your body works hard to keep its temperature steady.
- Improved Mood and Focus: Cold water can increase the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain, making you feel happier and more alert.
- Stronger Immune System: Regular cold exposure might help your immune system by boosting white blood cell count, which helps fight off illnesses.
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Where to Do a Cold Plunge
- Natural Water: Some people use lakes, rivers, or the ocean, especially in colder places.
- Cold Plunge Pools: Special pools designed for cold water immersion, found in wellness centers, spas, and gyms.
- Ice Bath or Tub/Cold Plunge Tubs: Most common, where you sit in a tub filled with ice water. Specialized tubs made specifically for cold plunges are often equipped with features to help maintain the cold temperature.
How to Take a Cold Plunge
- Start by getting used to cold water, like taking cooler showers first.
- Spend about 2 to 5 minutes in the cold water. If you’re new to it, start with shorter times and increase gradually.
- Cold plunges aren’t for everyone. If you have health issues, like heart problems, check with your doctor first. Also, warm up slowly after the plunge to avoid shocking your body.
What is a Water Chiller for Cold Plunge?
A water chiller for cold plunge is a machine that cools down the water to keep it at a very low temperature. This makes your cold plunge or ice bath cold enough to help with muscle recovery, reduce inflammation, and refresh your body. It’s like an air conditioner, but for water, keep it cold so you can get the full benefits of cold therapy. The power of a water chiller is measured in horsepower (HP).
For small to medium tubs up to 100 gallons, a chiller with 0.25 to 0.5 HP is generally sufficient. A 0.5 to 1 HP chiller is recommended for medium to large tubs ranging from 100 to 300 gallons. For large tubs over 300 gallons or if you need to maintain temperatures below 40°F, a chiller with 1 HP or more is necessary.
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5 Best Water Chillers for Cold Plunge or ICE Bath
Looking for the best Water Chiller for Cold Plunge? Here are the top 5 available on Amazon.com.
1. Active Aqua AACH50HP Hydroponic Water Cooling System
The Active Aqua AACH50HP Hydroponic Water Cooling System is a powerful tool for keeping your hydroponic nutrient solution at the right temperature. It works well with both fresh and saltwater systems and is designed for setups holding between 90 to 172 gallons.
I started cold plunging with a budget setup using a portable plunge and a 1/4 HP Vevor chiller, but it was noisy and struggled to get the water cold enough. I upgraded to the Active Aqua chiller, which is much quieter and more efficient. It keeps my plunge at a steady 39 degrees without running constantly. – One buyer on Amazon.com
It is one of the most preferred water chillers for cold plunge and ice baths on Amazon.com. The chiller uses a durable titanium evaporator to prevent corrosion and has a strong cooling capacity, helping to quickly bring the water to the desired temperature. With its quiet operation and user-friendly controls, it’s a reliable choice for anyone looking to create a healthy environment for their plants or fish, whether in a hydroponic system or an aquarium.
2. Poafamx Aquarium Chiller
The Poafamx Aquarium Chiller is a reliable cooling system ideal for large aquariums and hydroponics. It features an energy-efficient compressor that maintains a stable temperature, making it safe for freshwater and saltwater setups. The chiller is quiet, with effective heat dissipation, and comes with everything needed for easy setup.
Customers are impressed with its performance. Jason Lucia says, “I’ve had this chiller for over a year, and it’s amazing, keeping my cold plunge at 53°F.” Brad Parks adds, “It cooled our water down into the 40s in Alabama with no issues, and it’s very quiet.”
This chiller is a great choice for those seeking a dependable and cost-effective cooling solution.
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3. VEVOR Aquarium Chiller
The VEVOR Aquarium Chiller is perfect for keeping your fish tank or cold plunge at a stable temperature, especially in hot weather. It cools water between 65°F and 80°F, thanks to its efficient 0.25 HP compressor. The chiller also includes a water pump for steady circulation and features a fan for rapid heat dissipation.
David N. Schaber, an Amazon reviewer, praised the chiller for keeping his cold plunge water cold and being quieter than his previous unit. However, another user found it noisy and struggled to maintain the right temperature.
4. Polar Revive Chiller for Ice Bath and Cold Plunges
The Polar Revive Chiller is a powerful cooling system made for ice baths and cold plunges. It comes with everything you need, including hoses and a pump, making setup easy. You can quickly set your desired temperature using the digital screen. Available in 1/3 HP, 2/3 HP, and 1 HP models, this chiller is built to deliver strong cooling and is backed by a 12-month warranty with support from USA-based customer service. It is one of the finest water chillers for Cold Plunge.
Customers have shared their thoughts on the chiller. Paul Coleman mentioned, “I set mine to keep the water at 39°F, and it takes about an hour to lower the temperature by 2 degrees.” Another user, Off The Grid Ken, said, “The chiller works slowly to reach ice bath temperatures, so it’s best to plan ahead. For $750, it does the job, but I expected a bit more.”
Overall, the Polar Revive Chiller is a good option for those serious about cold plunges, offering reliable performance with easy setup.
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5. VEVOR Aquarium Chiller, 110 Gal 416 L
The VEVOR Aquarium Chiller is perfect for keeping the water in your 110-gallon tank cool, especially during hot weather. It maintains temperatures between 65°F and 80°F, creating a healthy environment for your fish. With a 0.33 HP energy-efficient compressor and Freon-free refrigerant, it cools the water effectively without causing pollution. The included water pump ensures steady circulation, and the built-in fan with vents helps to quickly remove heat.
Joseph Barclay, who bought the chiller for his cold plunge tub, shared that it does a great job keeping the water cool and refreshing after workouts or on hot days. He mentioned that while it works well for smaller setups, those in hotter climates or with larger tubs might need a stronger chiller for faster cooling. Overall, it’s a dependable option for keeping your water at the right temperature.
Conclusion
Choosing the right water chiller for your cold plunge is important for a great experience. Look at the horsepower because it affects how well the chiller cools the water. Also, make sure to check the return and refund options in case you need to return the product. Also, make sure to read the instructions carefully to know how to set up and use the chiller properly. This will help you enjoy your cold plunge and get all the benefits it has to offer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can an aquarium chiller be used as a water chiller for a cold plunge?
Yes, an aquarium chiller can be used as a water chiller for a cold plunge. While it’s designed to cool water for fish tanks, it can also lower the temperature of the water in a cold plunge. However, make sure the chiller is powerful enough to cool the larger volume of water in your plunge.
How long should I stay in a cold plunge for safety?
For a safe cold plunge, it’s best to stay in the water for 5 to 10 minutes. If you’re starting, begin with 3 to 5 minutes and slowly increase your time as your body gets used to the cold. Pay attention to how you feel, and get out of the water if you feel too uncomfortable or numb. If you have any health issues, it’s a good idea to check with a doctor before starting cold plunges.
Which is better for long-term use: a water chiller for a cold plunge or a cold plunge tub?
For long-term use, a cold plunge tub is generally better. It is specifically designed for cold therapy, with durability, insulation, and consistent performance offered. While a water chiller can work, it might require more maintenance and may not be as efficient as a dedicated cold plunge tub.
What should I think about when picking the right HP for my chiller?
Think about the size of your tub, the temperature of your surroundings, and how fast you want to cool the water. Bigger tubs or those in hotter areas might need a more powerful chiller.
