Best Water Chiller For Cold Plunge (2023)

Last updated on November 22nd, 2023 at 10:30 am

Cold plunges have garnered significant attention in recent years, emerging as a favorite recovery method for athletes and health enthusiasts alike.

With the myriad of health benefits, including reduced muscle soreness and improved circulation, it's no surprise that the market for the best water chiller for cold plunge has expanded rapidly.

But with so many options, how does one make the right choice? Here's a deep dive into three of the top cold plunge chillers to help guide your decision.

Our Top Picks

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Decision Criteria

Before diving into our top picks, let's outline the criteria we used to evaluate the best water chiller for cold plunge:

• Performance: How effectively does it chill and heat the water?

• Connectivity: Features such as WiFi control and mobile app compatibility.

• Filtration & Sanitization: Ensures the water remains clean for longer.

• Usability: Design elements like wheels for portability or intuitive controls.

• Price: Does the value justify the cost?

Why Invest in a Cold Plunge Chiller?

The idea of submerging oneself in ice-cold water might seem daunting to the uninitiated. However, cold plunge enthusiasts and athletes around the world swear by the numerous benefits that this practice brings. Investing in a water chiller for cold plunge can significantly elevate this experience. Here’s why:

1. Therapeutic Benefits:

Cold therapy, often synonymous with ice baths or cold plunges, has been touted for its numerous health benefits. From reduced muscle soreness to improved circulation and decreased inflammation, the therapeutic advantages are manifold. A chiller ensures that the water temperature is optimal to reap these benefits.

2. Enhanced Recovery:

For athletes and fitness aficionados, recovery is a crucial aspect of training. Immersing in a cold plunge tub post-workout can accelerate muscle recovery, reduce fatigue, and prepare the body for the next training session.

3. Mental Toughness and Well-being:

Beyond the physical, there's a mental aspect to cold plunges. Regularly exposing oneself to cold water can enhance mental resilience, reduce stress, and even boost mood, thanks to the endorphin rush it triggers.

4. Consistent Water Temperature:

Manually preparing an ice bath can be inconsistent and labor-intensive. A cold plunge chiller offers precise control over the water temperature, ensuring a consistent cold plunge experience every time.

5. Safety and Sanitization:

Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and pathogens. Modern cold plunge chillers come equipped with advanced filtration and sanitization systems, ensuring that the water remains pure and safe for use.

6. Cost-Effective in the Long Run:

While the initial investment might seem steep, consider the recurring costs of purchasing ice for traditional ice baths. Over time, a chiller becomes a cost-effective solution, offering consistent results without the ongoing expenses.

7. Environmental Considerations:

Constantly buying and using ice for ice baths can be wasteful. Investing in a chiller is an eco-friendly alternative, reducing the environmental footprint associated with frequent ice purchases.

8. Customized Experience:

With features like WiFi connectivity, LED touchscreens, and pre-set scheduling, modern cold plunge chillers offer a tailored experience, allowing users to adjust settings as per their preferences.

Investing in a cold plunge chiller isn't just about luxury or following a trend. It's about optimizing the cold therapy experience, ensuring safety, and making a sustainable choice for the long run. Whether you're an athlete, a wellness enthusiast, or someone curious about the world of cold plunges, a chiller might just be the game-changer you're looking for.

Click here for a more expansive article as to why we believe that it is very worth it to invest in a water chiller for cold plunge.

Best Overall Option: Sun Home Cold Plunge Chiller + Heater

Sun Home brings a holistic approach to the cold plunge experience. Named the "Best Cold Plunge of 2023" by prestigious sources like Sports Illustrated, New York Post, and US Weekly, this unit doesn't skimp on quality. Here's why we named the Sun Home Cold Plunge Chiller + Heater the best water chiller for cold plunge in 2023.

1HP Smart Chiller

At the heart of the Sun Home is a potent 1HP motor that offers rapid cooling and heating capabilities. With a range from a crisp 37.5F to a soothing 104F, it provides the versatility needed for those who want to alternate between an ice bath and a warm soak. The efficiency ensures users can have their desired temperature in just minutes, optimizing the cold plunge experience.

Mobile App Control

Gone are the days of manual adjustments. Sun Home's state-of-the-art mobile app brings temperature control and scheduling to the palm of your hand. This convenience means that you can initiate cooling or heating sessions even when you're not home, ensuring the cold plunge tub is ready the moment you step in.

Intuitive LED Touchscreen

The modern LED touchscreen is more than just a visual treat. It provides real-time feedback on the water temperature and offers easy access to all of the unit's features. Coupled with a 24-hour reservation mode, it allows users to pre-set their cold plunges or warm baths, adapting to even the most intricate daily routines.

Portability and Design

Whether it's an indoor spa area or an outdoor patio, the Sun Home chiller is designed for both environments. The wheels add a touch of portability, making it hassle-free to move the unit as per one's needs. Its robust 88lbs weight ensures stability, even when fully operational.

Advanced Filtration & Sanitization

Health and hygiene are paramount when it comes to water immersion therapies. Sun Home takes this seriously with a multi-faceted approach to water purification:

• UV Disinfection: UV light has proven efficacy in neutralizing harmful microorganisms, ensuring that the water remains bacteria and virus-free.

• Ozone Injection: This added layer of sanitization breaks down contaminants that might otherwise be resistant to other forms of purification.

• 20 Micron Filter: A fine filter captures any larger impurities, ensuring that the water in your cold plunge tub remains crystal clear.

Combined, these features provide a holistic cleaning solution that minimizes the need for frequent water changes.

Built-in Circulation Pump

A stagnant water body can become a breeding ground for impurities. The built-in circulation pump ensures continuous water movement, further promoting water hygiene and ensuring even temperature distribution throughout the cold plunge tub.

Pros & Cons

Pros

1. Versatile Temperature Control: With a temperature range from 37.5F to 104F, the Sun Home caters to both the cold plunge enthusiasts seeking the rejuvenating experience of an ice bath and those wanting the relaxation of a warm soak.

2. Smart Connectivity: The mobile app control means you can adjust settings, schedule sessions, and monitor your cold plunge tub's temperature from anywhere, anytime.

3. Cutting-edge LED Touchscreen: The intuitive interface allows for swift adjustments and provides clear feedback on the current water temperature and system status, ensuring users always have a handle on their cold plunge experience.

4. Advanced Sanitization System: Combining UV disinfection, ozone injection, and a 20-micron filter, Sun Home offers a robust three-tier purification system. This not only ensures clean and safe water but also reduces maintenance requirements.

5. User-centric Design: Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, its adaptability ensures you can set up your cold plunge tub wherever you prefer. Plus, the wheels offer portability, making it easier to relocate based on user preference.

6. 24-hour Reservation Mode: The ability to pre-set cold plunge or warm bath sessions 24 hours in advance caters to those with busy schedules. You can ensure that the water is at your desired temperature the moment you're ready.

7. Awards and Recognition: Being named the "Best Cold Plunge of 2023" by renowned outlets adds a layer of trust and credibility to the product.

8. Comprehensive Warranty: The standard 1-year warranty, with options for 3 and 5-year extensions, assures users of Sun Home's commitment to long-lasting performance and product quality.

Cons

1. Price Point: With a cost of $3,499, it's on the higher end of the market. While it offers a plethora of features, the price might be prohibitive for some potential users.

2. Weight: Weighing 88lbs, while it does suggest sturdiness and quality build, it might be a challenge for a single person to move, despite the added wheels.

3. Mobile App Dependency: Relying heavily on the mobile app for remote control might be an issue if there are connectivity problems or if the user isn't tech-savvy.

In conclusion, the Spartan Max 1HP WiFi Chiller/Heater shines as a robust, value-packed option in the cold plunge chiller market. While it may lack a few premium perks, its core functionalities and affordability make it a compelling choice for many seeking a blend of performance and value.

Runner Up: Coldture Cold Plunge Chiller

This water chiller for cold plunge, which gained notable attention after its feature on Dragon’s Den, is a blend of advanced technology and efficient design.

0.8HP Chiller: Precision at its Best

The Coldture's 0.8HP chiller is engineered to be both potent and precise. With the capability to cool water down to a brisk 37F and heat it up to a warm 105F, it ensures that your cold plunge tub is always at the desired temperature. This temperature range ensures users can switch between ice baths and warmer therapeutic soaks with ease.

Advanced Step Filtration: Crystal Clear Water

What stands out for many cold plunge enthusiasts with this model is its advanced step filtration system. This feature ensures that every drop of water in your cold plunge tub is purified, reducing the risk of contaminants that could detract from the cold plunge experience.

Wi-Fi Control and Digital Display: Smart Soaking

Gone are the days of manual adjustments and guesswork. The Coldture chiller comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control the water temperature remotely. The digital display, with its clear and intuitive interface, offers users real-time feedback on the current temperature and system status, ensuring you're always in the know.

Durability: Built for the Elements

Constructed to withstand various weather conditions, this chiller is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, even in temperatures as low as -10C/14F. So whether you're planning a winter ice bath outdoors or a summer soak indoors, the Coldture chiller won't let you down.

Warranty and Pricing: Assurance and Value

With its one-year standard warranty and options for extended coverage, you can be assured of its durability and long-lasting performance. Plus, with a competitive price of $3,250 and flexible payment plans available, it presents a valuable proposition for those wanting a blend of features and affordability.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

1. Efficient Cooling & Heating: Its 0.8HP motor ensures optimal water temperature, ranging from a chilly 37F to a soothing 105F, catering to various preferences and needs.

2. Advanced Filtration System: The advanced step filtration guarantees pure, uncontaminated water for every cold plunge session, enhancing safety and the overall experience.

3. Smart Connectivity: With Wi-Fi capabilities and a user-friendly digital display, users can easily control and monitor the chiller remotely, bringing convenience to the fore.

4. Weather-Resilient Design: Built to withstand varying climates, it's suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, even in colder temperatures. This flexibility offers users versatility in their cold plunge routines.

5. Affordable Luxury: While offering many high-end features, its price tag of $3,250, accompanied by available payment plans, ensures it remains accessible to a wider audience.

6. Renowned Recognition: Its feature on Dragon’s Den underscores its innovative design and functionality, lending it credibility in the marketplace.

7. Extended Warranty Options: Beyond the standard one-year warranty, the availability of extended warranties provides peace of mind for the long-term investment.

Cons:

1. Slightly Less Power: Compared to some 1HP models in the market, the 0.8HP might take marginally longer to achieve the desired temperature in larger volumes of water.

2. Limited Advanced Sanitization: While it boasts an excellent filtration system, it doesn't have features like UV disinfection or ozone injection that some competitors offer.

3. Bulk & Weight: Depending on the setup location, its size and weight might be a consideration for those who prioritize compactness or frequent relocation.

4. Single-year Standard Warranty: The base warranty is limited to one year, which might be shorter than what some competitors provide as a standard.

5. No Mention of Noise Level: While many chillers highlight low-noise operation, there's no specific mention of this for the Coldture model, which could be a consideration for those who value tranquility during their cold plunge sessions.

In summary, the Coldture Cold Plunge Chiller offers a balance of advanced features and affordability. While it has a few areas of improvement, its overall performance, design, and user feedback suggest that it's a strong contender in the cold plunge chiller market.

Most Affordable: Spartan Max 1HP WiFi Chiller/Heater

Renowned for providing top-tier performance at a fraction of the cost, the Spartan Max 1HP WiFi Chiller/Heater is a blend of innovation and value that resonates well with cold plunge aficionados, and here's why we named it the most affordable water chiller for cold plunge (without sacrificing quality).

Robust Motor & Temperature Control

At the heart of this chiller is its powerful 1HP motor, ensuring that your cold plunge tub always remains within the desired temperature range. With capabilities to adjust water temperatures between 38F and 104F, it provides flexibility for both chilling and heating sessions. This precision allows users to seamlessly switch between therapeutic warm soaks and invigorating ice baths, catering to diverse recovery and relaxation needs.

Seamless Connectivity: WiFi-Enabled Controls

Modern problems require modern solutions. The Spartan chiller embraces this mantra by offering WiFi-enabled controls. This means users can adjust settings, monitor water temperature, and even set timers directly from their mobile devices. The era of bending over backward to tweak your chiller settings is a thing of the past.

Efficient Filtration & UV Sterilization

Clean water is paramount for an optimal cold plunge experience. The Spartan chiller features an advanced micron filtration system that effectively traps contaminants, ensuring the purity of every drop. Paired with UV sterilization, it eliminates harmful pathogens, providing a safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable cold plunge session.

Mobility & Portability

A distinct advantage of the Spartan chiller is its portability. Mounted on wheels, users can effortlessly move the unit around, ensuring optimal positioning whether it's adjacent to an indoor cold plunge tub or outside by the ice barrel.

Industrial-Grade Components

One of the standout features is its use of industrial-grade components. This not only speaks to its durability but also ensures long-lasting performance. Whether it's daily use or occasional weekend recovery sessions, the Spartan chiller is built to withstand the test of time.

Quiet Operations: Peaceful Plunges

Nobody wants a noisy chiller interrupting their peaceful cold therapy sessions. The Spartan chiller boasts a low-noise operation, ensuring that the only sound you hear is the gentle ripple of water as you immerse yourself.

Value Proposition

Priced at a reasonable $2,000, it's over 40% more affordable than many leading competitors. This positions the Spartan chiller as a fantastic choice for those wanting robust features without the hefty price tag.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

1. Powerful Motor: With a 1HP motor, it ensures quick and efficient temperature adjustments, catering to both cold plunge enthusiasts and those seeking therapeutic warmth.

2. Smart Connectivity: WiFi-enabled controls mean users can easily adjust settings and monitor the water temperature remotely, offering modern convenience.

3. Advanced Sanitization: The combination of micron filtration and UV sterilization guarantees clean, pathogen-free water for every session, enhancing safety and the overall plunge experience.

4. Portability Advantage: The inclusion of wheels facilitates easy relocation, providing flexibility in positioning the chiller as per individual preferences.

5. Durable Construction: Built using industrial-grade components, this chiller is designed for longevity and consistent performance.

6. Whisper-Quiet Operations: Its low-noise operation ensures a peaceful and undisturbed cold plunge experience.

7. Unbeatable Value: Priced significantly lower than many competitors, the Spartan chiller offers premium features at a budget-friendly price, ensuring great value for money.

8. Voluminous Capacity: With a maximum volume of 130 gallons, it's suitable for larger tubs and consistent performance across varying tub sizes.

Cons:

1. Single-Year Warranty: While it boasts many advanced features, the standard warranty is limited to just one year, which might be shorter than some premium competitors, although a 2 year warranty is available for purchase for an extra fee.

2. Limited Advanced Features: It lacks some of the bells and whistles like LED touchscreens or reservation modes that other high-end models might offer.

3. Bulkier Design: The use of industrial-grade components, while ensuring durability, might make the unit bulkier and more space-consuming.

4. No Media Recognition: Unlike some competitors that have been recognized by prominent media outlets, the Spartan model doesn't have such accolades to its name, which might influence some potential buyers.

In conclusion, the Spartan Max 1HP WiFi Chiller/Heater shines as a robust, value-packed option in the cold plunge chiller market. While it may lack a few premium perks, its core functionalities and affordability make it a compelling choice for many seeking a blend of performance and value.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Conclusion: Best Water Chiller for Cold Plunge in 2023

Selecting the right water chiller for cold plunge is crucial for optimizing the ice bath and cold therapy experience.

Each of our top picks excels in different areas.

Whether you're after award-winning performance, a balance of features and cost, or sheer affordability, there's a chiller unit here for you.

Dive in, and experience the rejuvenating power of cold plunges today!

Get Cold.™