While most commercial cold plunge tubs come with an integrated chiller, going for a DIY cold plunge chiller can help improve the power, add Wi-Fi capability, or more.
Even in case your integrated cold plunge chiller dies, the external chiller can be a lifesaver.
In this post, we’ll show you some of the best DIY cold plunge chillers that will work with any type of commercial cold plunge tub, so keep on reading!
How to Choose a DIY Cold Plunge Chiller
When you’re looking for a new chiller or want to upgrade your existing chiller, here are a few things you have to consider:
- Cold plunge tub’s size and chiller’s power
- Desired temperature
- Temperature control and monitoring
- Build quality and durability
- Noise level
- Ease of installation
Cold Plunge Tub’s Size and Chiller’s Power
The first thing you have to get right is your cold plunge tub’s size. The volume will determine how powerful your chiller needs to be.
For example:
- 1/10HP is ideal for 13 to 40 gallons
- 1/4HP is ideal for 42 to 92 gallons
- 1/2HP is ideal for 92 to 172 gallons
- 1HP is ideal for 132 to 396 gallons
It’s also recommended looking into the water circulation’s flow rate and matching it with the rate recommended by your cold plunge tub’s manufacturer.
Desired Temperature
Cold plunge tubs usually require temperatures between 45 to 55 degrees, but considering you’re offering cold plunging tubs to your customers and clients, you might want to look into chillers that provide a lower end of the temperatures (around 32-35 degrees).
This will give you a competitive advantage but also please your customers who prefer extremely cold temperatures.
Temperature Control and Monitoring
Controlling the temperature and monitoring the settings is crucial, especially for cold plunge tubs in frequent use.
Wi-Fi connectivity is one of the best features introduced in modern cold plunge chillers. This way, you can access information on each cold plunge tub you have, monitor it, and even adjust temperature controls remotely.
Digital displays aren’t a bad option either, but you’ll need to be checking on the tub regularly, in person, between sessions.
Build Quality and Durability
Not all chillers are ideal for commercial use. That’s why it’s important to look for the build quality, versatility, power, and additional options.
All of these chillers are made for commercial use and are more than enough to withstand frequent and daily use. You only need to choose the right power for the size of your tub.
Also, it’s wise to get a chiller that’s made in the USA or comes with at least 1 year of warranty.
Noise Level
Depending on your cold plunge setup, it’s important to consider the noise as it can ruin the client’s experience. It’s also especially important to consider how much noise a cooler makes, in case you’re using the chiller for indoor purposes.
Ease of Installation
The last thing you want is to wait for the chiller to arrive, only to have to wait for a plumber to set it all up for you.
Luckily, all of these commercial chillers are easy to install, come with a video guide, and require 10 minutes or less without requiring any plumbing tools.
Best DIY Cold Plunge Chillers
The best thing about the cold plunge chillers is that you can hook up almost any cold plunge chiller. With that being said, you can go for cold plunge chillers that can outperform the stock chillers that come with most commercial tubs.
1/2HP Artica Chiller Unit
If you’re on a budget and need a low-cost chiller that’s performing decently, Artica chiller is a good choice.
The greatest thing about the Artica chiller is that it can help you drop your cold plunge temps down to 32 degrees, without costing a fortune. In fact, this 1/2HP chiller is one of the most affordable coolers that can achieve such low-end temperatures.
Another thing that’s great about the Artica chiller is that it’s very quiet. Advertised as a chiller you can sleep next to, it definitely isn’t far from the truth.
Equipped with a single-stage controller, this chiller performs best with cold plunges at 100 gallons or below with a recommended flow-through rate of 474 GPH to 790 GPH.
Artica chiller is equipped with an anti-freezing system that won’t allow the heat exchanger to freeze, no matter the placement. The only thing to keep in mind is that this cooler isn’t for use in enclosed areas without proper airflow.
The thermostat is integrated into the unit so you and your customers or clients will have easy access to control the temperature, with the simple keypad. However, keep in mind since this chiller is aimed for commercial use, you can program what’s visible on the display and how your customers can control the chiller.
While this chiller provides plenty of features and is made with quality in mind, note that it’s a budget pick. We highly recommend going for a chiller one size larger than recommended for the size of your cold plunge tub.
Click Here for the Price of the Artica Chiller!
Embrace 1HP Chiller
Embrace is a 1HP chiller ideal for commercial cold plunge tubs and businesses that want to improve the power of their chilling unit or improve the filtration system.
What’s most important to know about Embrace chiller is that it’s an all-in-one unit, which includes a dual filtration system (UV/micron filter) and a hair screen strainer.
It’s built with durability in mind and handlebars for easier transportability. All hoses and connections come included, with a detailed setup guide so you won’t have to worry about hiring a professional to connect the chiller with your cold plunge tub.
This chiller can keep the temperatures as low as 37 degrees. A digital display makes temperature adjustment highly convenient, so even your first-time customers will easily find their way to setting the chiller (if needed).
You can install and use this chiller in both indoor and outdoor settings, but keep in mind you’ll need an indoor spot that has decent airflow.
Embrace 1HP chiller can easily cold down the water in tubs of up to 95 gallons, and even more.
With great adjustability, each one of your customers can precisely control their temperature according to their personal cold plunge preference and experience.
Considering the mid-level price, Embrace chiller offers a lot of value and is built with quality in mind that justifies the investment. One thing is for sure, it won’t disappoint - and in case it does, a warranty will keep you on the safe side.
https://thecoldplungestore.com/products/embrace-1hp-chiller
Cryo 10 Chiller
If you’re looking to upgrade your stock chiller or need a new one, the Cryo 10 chiller is an all-in-one smart chiller that will most likely end up being a better version of any of the previous chillers you’ve used.
Cryo 10 is built with power and clarity in mind, so you’ll get to cool your chiller down to 37 degrees. The higher-end temperature is 107 degrees, which is a significant upgrade over most standard chillers on the market (especially compared to stock chillers).
Besides the powerful pump, the Cryo 10 chiller comes with microfiltration and ozone sanitation, so you’ll have clean and refreshing water every time. This is another aspect why most businesses that include cold plunge tubs decide on Cryo 10.
However, if that’s not enough, you’ll love Wi-Fi capabilities that will allow you to control the temperature and all other settings of this chiller remotely (from the lobby of your business). Still, your customers will still get a chance to manage their temperature using a digital display that’s integrated into the unit, which is a modern and convenient way for every customer who wants to set up the cold plunge tub’s temperature up to their preference.
While many other chillers are recommended for outdoor use, with some of them being ideal for both indoor and outdoor - the Cryo 10 chiller is highly recommended for indoor use.
Alongside all smart and convenient features, you won’t only get a powerful unit with an integrated filtering system that will keep your water cool between sessions and clean for months of use - but you’ll also get all fittings included for an easy installation.
You’ll only need 10 minutes to set this chiller. You’ll receive a step-by-step video tutorial, and you won’t even need any tools or plumbing done.
One thing to keep in mind is that this is a highly popular choice, which means it’s in high demand, so it’s important to grab your unit as soon as possible.
Click Here for the Price of the Cryo 10 Chiller!
Chiller & Barrel Bracket
When you need a quality chiller that’ll be a good fit for a barrel cold plunge, this is what you’re looking for.
This 3/4HP cold therapy chiller includes a built-in pump and a barrel bracket, which ensures you won’t have to do any drilling at all, and yet you’ll get to keep the water in your barrel at the desired temperature.
What’s great about this chiller is that it comes with a barrel bracket that continues to work with the lid on via handles in the lid. There is also a 5-micron filter that ensures your water stays clean, no matter how many customers and sessions your business offers in a day.
This chiller allows you to cool down the water in the barrel tub down to 39 degrees. With the ability to use it for both indoor and outdoor use, you won’t have to worry about rain as another good thing is this chiller’s rainproof.
However, keep in mind you’ll have to disconnect the chiller and drain it completely when temperatures are freezing or below, as this will help prevent damage to the chiller.
Being proudly made in the USA, you are also covered with a 1-year warranty, so there’s no way this high-efficiency chiller disappoints.
With quick connects, once you get this chiller delivered straight to your business, it’ll only take about 10 minutes to connect it and prepare it for the first use. There are no tools or plumbing required, and you’ll only need a 110V outlet - everything else comes included.
Click Here for the Price of This Cold Plunge Chiller (With a Barrel Bracket)!
The Flex 3/4HP Chiller
When you’re looking for a mid-range chiller that won’t break the bank but will fit your cold plunge needs in a business setting, The Flex chiller makes a good choice.
This chiller is a 3/4HP unit ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, with the ability to cool down water down to 37 degrees, and even heat it up to 104 degrees. The temperature range will allow your customers to experience all of the cold plunge benefits in the summer but also get to enjoy the hot tub benefits in the winter.
With a dual filtration system, your cold plunge’s cleanliness will be maintained for months. Flex’s comprehensive 3-stage cleaning system in combination with an internal UV light filter and built-in pool-grade micron filter will keep your water clean at all times, regardless of the number of cold plunging sessions.
Wi-Fi control allows you to have a better overview of how your customers use the cold plunge. Your customers get a chance to still have control of the cold plunge temperature through a digital display that’s integrated into the unit.
What’s even better yet is that you won’t need anything else as you’ll get everything you need to set this unit up and running. You won’t even need a plumber as you’ll be able to install the unit yourself in 10 minutes or less, thanks to a clear video instruction guide.
Click Here for the Price of the Flex Chiller!
Conclusion
Investing in the next best DIY cold plunge chillers makes a lot of sense, especially considering you can keep your water cleaner with better filtration, reduce the noise, improve versatility, and help your clients experience lower temperatures than they’ve ever experienced before.
Also, keep in mind that an investment in a quality chiller that replaces a stock chiller can also bring cost savings and help keep your business competitive.