A cold plunge tub with a chiller can make it easier to keep water at a chosen temperature without adding ice before every session. The right setup depends on how much room you need, how cold you want the water, and whether you prefer an external or built-in pump and filter. These five kits include a tub and chiller, with differences in capacity, cooling temperature, and filtration that can help narrow your choice.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Product | Tub capacity | Chiller | Cooling target | Pump and filter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1stplunge 148-Gallon Cold Plunge Kit | 148 gallons | 1/3 HP | 42°F | External pump; 20-micron filter |
| AS ColdPlunge 148-Gallon Kit | 148 gallons | 1/3 HP | 42°F | External pump; 20-micron filter |
| AS ColdPlunge 216-Gallon 1HP Bundle | 216 gallons | 1 HP | 37°F | External pump; 5-inch replaceable filter |
| AS ColdPlunge 148-Gallon Built-In Pump Kit | 148 gallons | 1/3 HP | 42°F | Built-in pump; washable metal filter |
| AS ColdPlunge 148-Gallon External Pump Kit | 148 gallons | 1/3 HP | 42°F | External pump; 20-micron filter |
Our Picks: Best Cold Plunge Tub With Chiller reviews
1. 1stplunge 148-Gallon Kit: A Complete, Insulated Setup
This 1stplunge kit pairs a 148-gallon oval tub with a 1/3 HP chiller, circulation pump, external filter, and insulated hoses. The touchscreen controller lets you set and monitor the water temperature, and the chiller is designed to cool the water to 42°F. The included submersible pump also allows use with a standard bathtub.
The tub uses reinforced PVC, Oxford fabric, and thick EPE insulation. That soft-sided construction makes it a different kind of setup from a rigid plunge, so consider where you will place it and whether its oval size suits your space. The 20-micron filter is designed to catch hair, debris, and small particles, while replaceable cartridges make upkeep straightforward but do require periodic replacement.
This is a sensible choice if you want a full kit with an external filter and a tub that offers more room than a small personal bath. The listed operating noise is around 40 dB, though the actual experience can depend on where the chiller is placed. The chiller and tub ship in separate packages, so they may not arrive together.
Pros:
- Includes the tub, chiller, pump, filter, and insulated hoses.
- Touchscreen temperature control and cooling down to 42°F.
- 148-gallon oval tub with multi-layer construction and insulation.
- Submersible pump supports use with a standard bathtub.
Cons:
- Replaceable filter cartridges add an ongoing maintenance task.
- The tub and chiller may arrive in separate shipments.
Verdict: Choose this kit if you want a complete 148-gallon setup with an external filter and do not mind managing replacement cartridges.
2. AS ColdPlunge 148-Gallon Kit: External Filtration and Quick Connections
This AS ColdPlunge bundle has a 1/3 HP chiller, 148-gallon insulated oval tub, external pump, and filter. It is designed to cool water to 42°F and uses an LED touchscreen to set and monitor the target temperature. Insulated hoses, quick-connect fittings, and shut-off valves are included to connect the chiller to the tub.
The external filter has a transparent housing and a replaceable 20-micron cartridge, making it easier to check the filter and plan maintenance. The tub uses reinforced PVC, Oxford fabric, 10 mm EPE insulation, and a support frame. The kit also includes a submersible pump for standard bathtub use, which gives you another way to use the chiller system.
This model is a close fit for shoppers comparing complete 148-gallon kits with an external pump. Its feature set is similar to the 1stplunge option, so details such as the connection hardware and filter housing may matter more than a major difference in capacity or cooling target. The brand lists a one-year warranty, and the tub and chiller ship separately.
Pros:
- Includes an external pump, replaceable filter, and insulated hoses.
- Transparent filter housing makes it easier to inspect the cartridge.
- Quick-connect fittings and shut-off valves are included.
- Can also be used with a standard bathtub and the included submersible pump.
Cons:
- Requires replacement cartridges for the external filter.
- The chiller and tub may arrive on different days.
Verdict: Pick this kit if you want a 148-gallon tub with an external filter that is easy to inspect and connection accessories included.
3. AS ColdPlunge 216-Gallon Bundle: More Room and a 1HP Chiller
This bundle stands apart from the other picks with a 216-gallon long tub and a 1 HP chiller. The stated cooling target is 37°F, lower than the 42°F target listed for the 1/3 HP models. The system also includes an external pump and a 5-inch replaceable filter cartridge.
The long tub is designed to give users more legroom for full-body immersion. Its reinforced PVC and insulated layers are paired with an inflatable insulated lid, which helps cover the tub between sessions. With a larger tub and a more powerful chiller, this option is better suited to shoppers who want extra space and a colder stated target than the 148-gallon kits offer.
The larger capacity is also a practical tradeoff: you will need to make room for a bigger tub and the chiller setup. The description says the 1 HP unit is intended for continuous operation, but shoppers should still review the product listing and setup guidance to confirm the arrangement works for their space. A one-year warranty is listed.
Pros:
- 216-gallon long tub offers more room than the 148-gallon options.
- 1 HP chiller has a stated cooling target of 37°F.
- Includes an external pump and 5-inch replaceable filter.
- Insulated lid helps cover the tub between uses.
Cons:
- The larger tub requires more space than the other kits in this list.
- The external filter cartridge needs routine attention and replacement.
Verdict: Choose this bundle if extra room and a lower stated cooling target matter more to you than a compact 148-gallon setup.
4. AS ColdPlunge Built-In Pump Kit: Reusable Metal Filtration
This 148-gallon AS ColdPlunge kit uses a 1/3 HP chiller with a built-in circulation pump and washable metal mesh filter. It is designed to cool water to 42°F, and an LED touchscreen lets you set and monitor the temperature. Unlike the external-filter models in this list, it does not require a separate circulation pump or disposable filter cartridges for the tub setup.
The oval tub is made with reinforced PVC, Oxford fabric, 10 mm EPE insulation, and a support frame. An insulated lid helps keep dust and debris out between sessions. The kit includes insulated hoses, quick-connect fittings, and a submersible pump for use with a standard bathtub as well as the included tub.
The washable filter may appeal if you would rather rinse and reuse a filter than keep replacement cartridges on hand. Its main difference is the integrated pump-and-filter design, not a larger tub or colder listed temperature. The chiller and tub ship separately, and the brand lists a one-year warranty.
Pros:
- Built-in pump avoids a separate external circulation pump for tub setup.
- Washable metal filter can be rinsed and reused.
- Includes a 148-gallon insulated tub and insulated lid.
- Includes a submersible pump for bathtub use.
Cons:
- Its stated cooling target is 42°F, rather than the 37°F listed for the 1 HP bundle.
- The tub and chiller may arrive in separate packages.
Verdict: This is the best fit among these picks if you prefer a built-in pump and washable filter over a separate pump and replaceable cartridge.
5. AS ColdPlunge External Pump Kit: A Familiar 148-Gallon Setup
This AS ColdPlunge package combines a 1/3 HP chiller with a 148-gallon oval tub, external pump, and 20-micron filter. The chiller is designed to reach 42°F and maintain a selected temperature automatically. The kit includes insulated hoses, quick-connect fittings, and shut-off valves, plus a submersible pump for standard bathtub use.
The tub uses reinforced PVC, Oxford fabric, and 10 mm EPE insulation, with a support frame and insulated lid. Its external filter has a 5-inch replaceable cartridge intended to catch hair, debris, and everyday particles. Compared with the built-in-filter AS ColdPlunge kit, this design keeps the pump and filter external and uses replaceable cartridges rather than a washable metal mesh filter.
This is a straightforward choice if you want the standard 148-gallon capacity and prefer an external filter system. Its listed specs are similar to the other 1/3 HP, 42°F kits, so the main consideration is whether you prefer its external pump arrangement and included shut-off valves. The tub and chiller ship separately, and the brand lists a one-year warranty.
Pros:
- Complete 148-gallon kit with chiller, external pump, and filter.
- Includes shut-off valves and quick-connect fittings.
- Insulated tub includes a lid to cover it between sessions.
- Submersible pump supports standard bathtub use.
Cons:
- Replaceable filter cartridges require ongoing maintenance.
- The tub and chiller may arrive separately.
Verdict: Consider this kit if you want a 148-gallon tub with an external pump and the convenience of included shut-off valves and connection fittings.
How to Choose a Cold Plunge Tub With Chiller
Match the Tub Size to Your Space and Preferred Position
Capacity alone does not tell you whether a tub will feel comfortable. The 148-gallon models here use an oval design for seated plunges, while the 216-gallon bundle has a longer shape intended to provide more legroom. Check the product listing for the tub’s dimensions and make sure you have room for both the tub and its connected chiller equipment.
Compare the Chiller’s Stated Cooling Target
Four of the listed kits have a 1/3 HP chiller with a stated target of 42°F. The 216-gallon AS ColdPlunge bundle uses a 1 HP chiller and lists a 37°F target. Think about the temperature you intend to use and compare the chiller’s stated target with your needs. A product’s advertised target is not a substitute for checking its full operating and setup instructions.
Choose Between External and Built-In Filtration
External pump systems in this list use replaceable filter cartridges, including 20-micron filters on the 148-gallon options. The built-in-pump AS ColdPlunge kit instead uses a washable metal mesh filter. Replaceable cartridges can be swapped out when needed, while a washable filter avoids buying disposable cartridges but must be rinsed. Consider which maintenance routine you would rather follow.
Check What the Kit Includes
Look beyond the tub and chiller when comparing packages. Hoses, valves, quick-connect fittings, a pump, and a filter can all affect how much you need to arrange separately. Some kits also include a submersible pump for use with a standard bathtub. Check the listing for the included parts and setup instructions before ordering.
Consider Tub Materials and Insulation
The 148-gallon tubs described here use reinforced PVC, Oxford fabric, and EPE insulation, with some packages also listing a support frame or insulated lid. The larger AS ColdPlunge tub has reinforced PVC and insulated layers with an inflatable lid. These are soft-sided designs, so check the manufacturer’s placement and care guidance and choose a location that suits the tub’s footprint.
Plan for Installation, Maintenance, and Delivery
These systems require connecting the chiller and circulation equipment to the tub. Review the included connection hardware and the maker’s setup instructions before you commit to a location. Also account for filter cleaning or replacement, and remember that several kits say the chiller and tub ship separately. Confirm the warranty details and support information in the product listing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these cold plunge kits require ice?
The kits are designed to use a chiller to cool and maintain the water temperature, so their intended setup does not rely on adding ice for each session. Check each product’s instructions for how to fill, connect, and operate the system.
Which option has the lowest stated cooling target?
The AS ColdPlunge 216-gallon bundle lists a cooling target of 37°F. The four 1/3 HP kits list a target of 42°F.
What is the difference between an external and built-in pump?
An external pump is a separate component connected to the tub and chiller system. The built-in-pump AS ColdPlunge model integrates the circulation pump into the chiller setup and uses a washable metal filter. The external models listed here use replaceable filter cartridges.
Can these chillers be used with a standard bathtub?
All five product descriptions mention a submersible pump for bathtub use. Check the specific kit’s instructions and listing for details on connecting and operating it with your bathtub.
Do the tub and chiller arrive together?
Some product descriptions state that the tub and chiller ship in separate packages and may arrive at different times. Check the listing for the delivery details for the particular kit you choose.
How should I choose between the 148- and 216-gallon tubs?
Consider the space available and how much room you want for immersion. The 148-gallon models are oval, while the 216-gallon bundle is a longer design intended to provide more legroom. Check the listed dimensions before deciding.
Should I ask a health professional before cold plunging?
If you have a health condition, take medication, or are unsure whether cold exposure is appropriate for you, ask a qualified health professional before starting. Follow the product’s safety instructions and do not treat a cold plunge as a substitute for medical care.
Final Recommendation
For a complete 148-gallon setup, the 1stplunge and AS ColdPlunge external-pump kits offer similar core features: a 1/3 HP chiller, a 42°F stated target, and replaceable filtration. The built-in-pump AS ColdPlunge kit is the distinct pick if you prefer a washable metal filter. For more room and the lowest stated cooling target in this group, consider the 216-gallon, 1 HP bundle. Compare the tub dimensions, filter style, included fittings, and setup instructions before choosing the one that best fits your space and routine.
