A cold plunge with an active chiller can keep water at a set temperature without daily ice runs. The best setup for you depends on how much room you have, how much water you want to cool, and whether you prefer app controls or a simpler touchscreen. Below, we compare four tub-and-chiller options, including their filtration setups, insulation, and practical trade-offs.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Product | Tub capacity | Cooling and controls | Notable feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| AS ColdPlunge 100-Gallon Chiller Bundle | 100 gallons | 1/3 HP; down to 42°F; LED touchscreen | External pump and replaceable filter |
| 1stplunge 148-Gallon WiFi Cold Plunge | 148 gallons | 1/3 HP; down to 42°F; WiFi app and touchscreen | Seven-layer insulated tub and cover |
| AS ColdPlunge 148-Gallon Chiller Kit | 148 gallons | 1/3 HP; down to 42°F; LED touchscreen | Built-in pump and washable metal filter |
| Recoverex 88-Gallon Pro-Grade Cold Plunge | 88 gallons | 1125W; down to 41°F; WiFi app | Portable tub and two-stage filtration |
Our Picks: Best Ice Bath With Chiller reviews
AS ColdPlunge 100-Gallon Bundle: A Complete, Compact Setup
This bundle pairs a 1/3 HP chiller with a 100-gallon round tub, external circulation pump, and filter. The chiller is designed to cool water to 42°F and maintain a chosen temperature through its LED touchscreen. That makes it a straightforward all-in-one option if you want a dedicated plunge rather than a chiller alone.
The tub uses reinforced PVC and 10 mm EPE insulation. Its upright, round shape is intended to fit in spaces such as a garage, bathroom, or home gym more easily than a larger oval model. The external pump and visible 20-micron filter make the circulation setup easy to identify, though the cartridge will need routine attention and replacement.
The kit also includes a submersible pump for circulating water in a standard bathtub. That adds flexibility if you want to try the chiller with an existing tub, but you should check the setup instructions and compatibility details before relying on that arrangement. The chiller and tub ship separately, so they may not arrive together.
Compared with the 148-gallon options below, this model has less capacity and a smaller footprint. It may be a better fit for shoppers prioritizing a more compact bundled setup over extra room for immersion.
Pros:
- Includes the tub, chiller, external pump, filter, and insulated hoses.
- Chiller is designed to reach 42°F and hold a set temperature.
- Insulated 100-gallon tub has a compact upright design.
- Includes a submersible pump for bathtub use.
Cons:
- External filter cartridges require inspection and replacement.
- The tub and chiller may arrive in separate packages.
Verdict: Choose this AS ColdPlunge bundle if you want a complete, relatively compact system with an external filter and do not need the larger capacity of an oval tub.
1stplunge 148-Gallon WiFi System: Roomy Tub and Remote Controls
This kit combines a 1/3 HP chiller with a 148-gallon oval tub, external pump, filter, and hoses. Its listed cooling target is 42°F. You can adjust the temperature from the chiller’s touchscreen or use WiFi app controls to monitor the water, schedule cooling, and turn the unit on or off remotely.
The oval tub offers more listed capacity than the 100-gallon round AS ColdPlunge model. It has seven-layer insulation and an insulated cover, features intended to help limit heat gain and keep debris out between sessions. The larger size may suit someone who wants more room, but it also calls for more floor space and more water to fill.
The external circulation system uses a replaceable 20-micron filter to catch hair, debris, and fine particles. That can make the filtration easy to check, but it also means keeping replacement cartridges on hand. The product description lists operation at approximately 40 dB and says it is designed for continuous use; actual sound and cooling performance can depend on the setup and conditions.
Its standout advantage over the other 1/3 HP kits here is WiFi control. If app access is not important to you, the built-in-pump AS ColdPlunge kit offers a simpler filtration arrangement, while the 100-gallon AS model takes up less space.
Pros:
- WiFi app and touchscreen provide multiple ways to manage settings.
- 148-gallon oval tub offers more capacity than the 100-gallon option.
- Seven-layer insulation and an included cover help protect the water between sessions.
- Includes an external pump, filter, and hoses.
Cons:
- The larger tub needs more room and water than smaller options.
- The external filter cartridge needs regular care and eventual replacement.
Verdict: This is a strong fit if you want a roomy tub and remote temperature controls, and you have space for a larger oval setup.
AS ColdPlunge 148-Gallon Kit: Built-In Pump and Reusable Filter
This AS ColdPlunge kit has a 1/3 HP chiller and a 148-gallon oval tub. The unit is designed to cool water to 42°F and uses an LED touchscreen to set and monitor the target. Unlike the 1stplunge system, it does not list WiFi app controls, so adjustments are made at the chiller.
The tub is made with reinforced PVC, Oxford fabric, and 10 mm EPE insulation, and it has a support frame and insulated lid. The larger oval shape offers more room than the 100-gallon round AS ColdPlunge tub, but you will need to account for the space required to set it up and access the chiller.
A key difference is the built-in circulation pump and washable metal mesh filter. Instead of a separate external pump and disposable cartridge, the system’s filter can be rinsed and reused. This may appeal to people who prefer fewer separate components or want to avoid routine cartridge purchases. The trade-off is that you need to clean the reusable filter as part of water care.
The kit includes a submersible pump for bathtub circulation as well as insulated hoses and fittings. The product description notes that the tub and chiller ship separately, so plan for the possibility of staggered deliveries. Compared with the 1stplunge 148-gallon model, this one favors a built-in pump and washable filter over app-based control.
Pros:
- Large 148-gallon oval tub with an insulated lid and support frame.
- Built-in pump keeps the setup self-contained.
- Washable metal filter can be rinsed and reused.
- Includes a submersible pump for bathtub use.
Cons:
- No WiFi app control is listed.
- The tub and chiller may arrive on different days.
Verdict: Pick this AS ColdPlunge model if you want a larger tub and prefer a built-in pump with a reusable filter over app controls and disposable cartridges.
Recoverex 88-Gallon Pro-Grade Plunge: Portable Tub With App Control
The Recoverex pairs an 88-gallon tub with a 1125W chiller designed to cool water to 41°F. It offers WiFi app control for setting and monitoring the temperature. Unlike the three 1/3 HP systems above, its cooling capacity is listed in watts, so the specifications do not provide a direct horsepower comparison.
The tub is described as a heavy-duty, UV-resistant canvas model, and the package includes a backpack for carrying it. The chiller has an IPX5 water-resistant housing, and the kit includes reinforced hoses and two replacement filters. Its two-stage filtration and lower tub capacity may appeal to people who want a smaller setup with app control.
The product description says setup involves inflating the tub, connecting the hoses, plugging in, and filling it. It also specifies AC 100–130V, 60 Hz power and warns that incompatible voltage may damage the unit and void the warranty. Check that requirement against your outlet before buying. The chiller should be stored indoors if temperatures fall below 36°F.
The supplied product information marks this item as unavailable. Availability can change, so check the product page before making plans to buy. If it is unavailable, the other three options all include larger tubs and list 1/3 HP chillers, though their pump and control setups differ.
Pros:
- WiFi app control and cooling to a listed 41°F.
- Smaller 88-gallon tub may suit tighter spaces.
- Includes a backpack, two extra filters, and reinforced hoses.
- Two-stage filtration is built into the system.
Cons:
- The supplied product data marks it as unavailable.
- Power compatibility and cold-weather storage requirements need attention.
Verdict: Consider the Recoverex if it becomes available and you want a smaller, app-controlled system, but confirm its power requirements and current listing status first.
How to Choose an Ice Bath With a Chiller
Choose a tub size that fits your body and space
These options range from 88 to 148 gallons. A larger tub can provide more room for immersion, but it needs more floor space and takes more water to fill. Measure the planned location, including room for the chiller, hoses, and access for getting in and out. Check the maker’s sizing details if you need to confirm fit for your height or preferred position.
Compare cooling specifications carefully
Three models list a 1/3 HP chiller designed to reach 42°F, while the Recoverex lists 1125W and a 41°F target. These figures do not tell you how quickly each unit will cool water in your home. Cooling time can depend on factors such as the starting water temperature, tub insulation, and room conditions, so look for additional performance details if speed is important to you.
Decide whether app control matters
The 1stplunge and Recoverex list WiFi app control, while the two AS ColdPlunge models list touchscreen controls. App access can make it easier to adjust or monitor a set temperature remotely. If you are comfortable using controls on the chiller itself, a touchscreen-only model may be all you need.
Think about the pump and filter routine
The 100-gallon AS ColdPlunge and 1stplunge kits use an external pump and replaceable filter. The 148-gallon AS ColdPlunge has a built-in pump with a washable metal filter, while Recoverex lists two-stage filtration and includes replacement filters. Each setup needs ongoing water care; consider whether you would rather rinse a reusable filter or keep replacement cartridges on hand.
Check insulation and the tub’s structure
Insulation and a cover can help limit heat gain and keep debris out between sessions. The product descriptions list 10 mm EPE insulation for both AS ColdPlunge tubs, seven-layer insulation and a cover for the 1stplunge, and a UV-resistant canvas tub for Recoverex. Compare the construction and included cover against where you plan to keep the tub, and follow the maker’s care instructions.
Plan for setup, power, and placement
Confirm that the installation spot can accommodate the filled tub, chiller, and hose connections. Check the included instructions for power needs, drainage, and clearances before setup. Recoverex specifically lists AC 100–130V, 60 Hz and gives cold-weather storage guidance; for the other models, confirm electrical and placement requirements with the seller or product documentation.
Review what is included and how support works
A bundle may include hoses, fittings, pumps, filters, a cover, or a carrying bag, but the included parts differ. Check the package contents and warranty details before ordering. The AS ColdPlunge descriptions list a one-year warranty and support response within 24 hours; do not assume the same terms apply to the other products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an ice bath chiller do?
A chiller cools the water and helps maintain a selected temperature, reducing the need to add ice for each session. The specific temperature and controls depend on the model.
Which of these systems lists the lowest temperature?
The Recoverex description lists cooling to 41°F. The two AS ColdPlunge models and the 1stplunge model list a 42°F target. These are stated product specifications, not a guarantee of identical results in every setup.
Is a larger tub always better?
No. A larger tub may give you more room, but it needs more space and more water. Choose based on your fit needs and where you can safely set up the tub.
Do these kits include filtration?
Yes. All four descriptions include a filtration system. The AS ColdPlunge 100-gallon and 1stplunge kits use external filters, the 148-gallon AS ColdPlunge uses a washable metal filter, and Recoverex lists two-stage filtration.
Can I use a chiller with a standard bathtub?
Both AS ColdPlunge descriptions say a submersible pump is included for circulating water in a standard home bathtub. Follow the supplied instructions and confirm compatibility for your specific setup.
Do these products require maintenance?
Yes. Filters need cleaning or replacement, and the water and equipment need care according to the manufacturer’s directions. The filter type determines whether you rinse and reuse it or replace a cartridge.
Which option is best if I want app control?
The 1stplunge 148-gallon system and Recoverex list WiFi app control. The 1stplunge offers a larger tub, while Recoverex lists a smaller tub and a 41°F cooling target; its supplied product data also marks it as unavailable.
Final Recommendation
For most shoppers who want a complete system with a large tub and a reusable filter, the AS ColdPlunge 148-gallon kit is a practical place to start. Choose the 1stplunge instead if WiFi controls are a priority, or the 100-gallon AS ColdPlunge bundle if you need a more compact tub. Check the listing details, included parts, and setup requirements before ordering, since availability and product information can change.
