Buying guide for best water chiller for ice bath
Ice baths or cold plunges can provide several mental and physical health benefits that devotees of extreme athlete Wim Hof can attest to. But you don’t need to go to a spa, stock up on ice packs or load your bathtub with ice cubes to enjoy the results. A water chiller regulates water temperature and allows you to take an icy-cold dip any time you’re in the mood.
The best water chillers have efficient filters and energy-saving technologies and work well even in the hottest climates. Some high-end models also allow you to monitor and control water temperature from your smartphone. We’ve rounded up the best water chillers for ice baths, and there are several terrific options, no matter your budget.
Many ice chillers will run you well over $1,000, but our top pick, the Vevor Aquarium Chiller, can cool down a tub up to 500 gallons for a reasonable price.
Which water chiller for ice bath is best?
Vevor Aquarium Chiller
Best of the Best
Temperature Range: 65-80 degrees | Size: 38” x 13.8” x 21.5” | Cooling Capacity (BTU or Tons): 1,000 Btu | Flow Rate (GPM): NA
This robust water chiller is excellent for all kinds of ice bath setups. It efficiently regulates water temperatures anywhere from 65 to 80 degrees. It’s also one of the quietest units and offers versatile functionality for other uses.
It has an energy-saving compressor, so you won’t rack up a high electric bill, and integrated cooling holes for improved air circulation, which allows the unit to work efficiently without overheating. It works for cold plunges and aquariums with a 500-gallon capacity, and it has an adjustable water temperature control ranging from 65 to 80 degrees.
Although there are more robust water chillers we’ll discuss shortly, this one is an excellent buy for the average user and is much more affordable. In addition to ice baths, it’s suitable for regulating fish tank water to keep aquatic life thriving.
Poafamx Aquarium Chiller
Best Bang for the Buck
Temperature Range: 65-80 degrees | Size: 12.6” x 12.6” x 7.28” | Cooling Capacity (Btu or Tons): NA | Flow Rate (GPM): NA
Those who want a cheap and portable chiller for taking freezing ice baths will not be disappointed with this aquarium chiller. It’s best for setups under 80 gallons, and reviewers rave that it works well for their small cold plunge.
With two built-in cooling fans, this chiller is highly efficient at circulating air, which helps keep water at the desired temperature and preserve the longevity of the unit. Although results vary depending on the ambient temperature, generally, this cooler can maintain water up to 10 degrees cooler. One of the best things about this model is that it doesn’t require additional accessories for installation or operation, as it comes with everything you need, including a water pump, a water pipe and connectors.
Its portability and low price point make it the best option for beginners or anyone looking for a budget-friendly cooler. It’s highly versatile, as it works great for freshwater and saltwater fish tanks or hydroponics systems in various environments, including homes and fish farms.
Ice Barrel Chiller
Best Smart Chiller
Temperature Range: 37 degrees | Size: 18.63” x 16.40” x 20.40” | Cooling Capacity (Btu or Tons): NA | Flow Rate (GPM): NA
Now, we’re getting into the upper echelon of water chillers, but before the price tag makes you look the other way, we have a few things to point out that might make you consider the Ice Barrel Chiller.
This water chiller is expensive, but it boasts advanced SmartSense technology, which allows for precise temperature even when the ambient temperature is as hot as 120 degrees. That alone makes it one of the best chillers for those who live in sweltering climates, and its rugged durability makes it excellent for ice baths. It has Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows users to monitor and adjust temperature and other settings through the Ice Barrel app. Plus, there is an advanced function that regulates water temperature in real time based on the ambient environment.
It’s a no-brainer for those who want fast, efficient cooling for ice baths or hydroponics or anyone who lives in a hot climate. It’s easy to set up thanks to the included quick-connect hoses, and you’ll get phone notifications to alert you when it’s time to change filters, which ensures longevity and optimal performance.
Arctic Warrior Advanced Water Chiller
Solid Warranty and Trial Period
Temperature Range: 39 degrees | Size: 13” x 13” x 15” | Cooling Capacity (Btu or Tons): 4,500 Btu | Flow Rate (GPM): NA
The neat thing about this water chiller is that the manufacturer offers a 100-day free trial period for customers, meaning you can see if it works and return it within that period if you don’t like it. Plus, they offer a one-year warranty for extra peace of mind. However, there’s plenty to like about this water cooler, and despite the high price tag, we’re almost sure you won’t want to return it.
It’s made for cold plunges, providing efficient cooling that’s up to two times faster than standard water chillers. It’s effective in ambient temperatures of well over 90 degrees. Smart automatic temperature control means you’ll receive real-time monitoring and updates to ensure optimal usage, and the advanced filtration keeps water clean and safe for all cold plunges. The onboard display makes it easy to adjust the temperature, and it operates at just 50 decibels, making it one of the quieter units.
It works with any bathtub, and installation only requires one person, which takes less than 10 minutes. Arctic Warrior estimates that those who frequently use it for ice baths can save well over $1,000 annually on ice packs alone, which might be the primary selling point if you intend to use this water chiller strictly for that purpose.
Plunge Evolve Standard Chiller with Heater
Best for Cold Climates
Temperature Range: 39 degrees | Size: 18” x 23” x 14” | Cooling Capacity (Btu or Tons): NA | Flow Rate (GPM): 6.5
This water chiller provides everything you need for therapeutic ice baths at home. Its compact design makes it easy to move around, and all you need to do for an ice bath is connect the chiller and fill your plunge.
The 0.5-horsepower cooling system allows this unit to cool water to temperatures as low as 39 degrees, and the 20-micron filter ensures that your plunge always has clean, pure and debris-free water. Its exterior is made of powder-coated sheet metal, giving it superior durability and outdoor weather resistance. It can also function in tandem with a heater for outdoor usage, achieving temperatures as warm as 104 degrees. Plus, you can manage temperatures remotely from the Plunge smartphone app.
We love that this water chiller can be used both indoors and outdoors, and we’re also impressed by its durable build. This unit costs $4,000, but it’s a worthwhile buy for those who want to take frequent ice baths or regulate fish tanks to keep aquatic life or hydroponic vegetation flourishing. Plus, its easy installation makes it one of the best water chillers for those who aren’t especially handy or tech-savvy.
How we analyzed the best water chiller for ice bath
To compile our list of the best water chillers, we scoured the internet for the best-reviewed products by both customers and professionals. We only considered models with a high rating and high scores on our performance metrics. We analyzed specs, features, design and functionality and determined the best units by combining the best scores with the best user reviews.
Key features to consider
Cooling capacity and temperature control
The higher the Btu rating, the more powerful the chiller, so it’s best to ensure that the water chiller can handle the size of your ice bath setup. Typically, chillers with higher Btu cool larger volumes of water faster and maintain the desired cold temperature longer. You’ll also want a chiller that can reach and maintain temperatures as low as 40 degrees.
A chiller with a digital thermostat allows you to precisely set and control the desired water temperature, making it easy to maintain the ideal cold temperature for your ice bath. Most units have onboard screens or buttons, while others allow you to manage temperature levels through a smartphone app.
Our top picks: Cooling capacity and temperature control
- Vevor Aquarium Chiller: It has a high cooling capacity of 1,000 Btu, and temperature can be adjust directly on the unit from 65 to 80 degrees.
- Poafamx Aquarium Chiller: This unit has a smaller cooling capacity because of its size, but temperatures are typically maintained anywhere from 5 to 10 degrees cooler than ambient temperature.
- Ice Barrel Chiller: It can cool water to temperatures as low as 37 degrees even if ambient temperature is as high as 120 degrees.
- Arctic Warrior Advanced Water Chiller and Plunge Evolve Standard Chiller with Heater: These water chillers can cool water down to 39 degrees and work with any standard-size bathtub or ice bath.
Water volume capacity
The volume of water you intend to use for your ice bath should not exceed the reservoir capacity of the water chiller. Chillers are rated based on the volume they can effectively cool, usually in gallons or liters, and a higher flow rate ensures faster water circulation and more consistent cooling.
Our top picks: Water volume capacity
- Vevor Aquarium Chiller: The volume capacity is 500 gallons, which is more than enough for a standard ice bath.
- Poafamx Aquarium Chiller: The capacity is roughly 80 gallons, making it suitable for smaller ice-bath setups.
- Ice Barrel Chiller, Arctic Warrior Advanced Water Chiller and Plunge Evolve Standard Chiller with Heater: Unfortunately, there is no indication of the water volume capacity of these water chillers. However, based on their sizes, it may be reasonable to assume a capacity of 200 to 400 gallons, which is sufficient for a standard ice bath.
Energy efficiency
Water chillers can consume a significant amount of electricity, so choosing an energy-efficient model is important for reducing operating costs, especially if you plan to use the chiller frequently. Preventing overheating is key, so it’s best to get a unit with holes for improved air circulation.
Our top picks: Energy efficiency
- Vevor Aquarium Chiller: This unit has a 1.5-horsepower energy-saving compressor.
- Poafamx Aquarium Chiller: There is no hard data on energy efficiency for this model, but given that it’s the most compact unit, it’s likely to be more energy-efficient than most of the other top picks.
- Ice Barrel Chiller: It’s equipped with superior energy-efficiency and advanced cooling technologies, which keep power consumption low.
- Arctic Warrior Advanced Water Chiller: It uses the same technology as modern refrigerators, which is highly economical and consumes about 5 kWh per day.
- Plunge Evolve Standard Chiller with Heater: The heater uses more energy than the cooler, but overall, it’s a standard appliance that consumes moderate amounts of energy.
Durability, maintenance and ease of cleaning
Since the chiller will be exposed to water for long periods, it’s essential to choose one made from durable, corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel. A robust construction ensures that a chiller can withstand prolonged use and exposure to cold temperatures without malfunctioning.
Chillers also need to be cleaned occasionally to prevent bacteria or algae from growing in the water. However, for most models, it’s as simple as replacing a filter. For that reason it’s a good idea to get a water chiller with easy access to internal components for regular cleaning. Also, some models don’t require frequent maintenance, making them more convenient for long-term use.
Our top picks: Durability, maintenance and ease of cleaning
- Vevor Aquarium Chiller: Standard maintenance includes cleaning the screen occasionally and changing the filter.
- Poafamx Aquarium Chiller: There aren’t any indications for maintenance, but it may be specified in the included instructions.
- Ice Barrel Chiller: Smart notifications alert you when it’s time to replace filters.
- Arctic Warrior Advanced Water Chiller: Maintenance involves changing the chiller filters, cleaning the metal mesh in the chiller and replacing the particle filter.
- Plunge Evolve Standard Chiller with Heater: All that’s required for maintenance is cleaning the chiller screens and replacing the filter.
Pump system
Some chillers come with an integrated water pump to circulate the water through the system and maintain even cooling throughout the bath. If your ice-bath setup doesn't already have a circulation system, this feature can be beneficial. If your water chiller doesn’t include a pump, you’ll have to purchase one separately for improved water circulation. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the water chiller is compatible with the external pump before you buy it.
Our top picks: Pump system
- Vevor Aquarium Chiller: It’s recommended to use with a 1,585-gallon-per-hour-water pump. Not included.
- Poafamx Aquarium Chiller: It comes with a complete refrigeration set, which includes a water pump, pipe and connectors.
- Ice Barrel Chiller: It doesn’t specify if it works with a pump system.
- Arctic Warrior Advanced Water Chiller: It has an integrated heat pump system, which is fully sealed and doesn’t require any maintenance.
- Plunge Evolve Standard Chiller with Heater: It has a built-in pump system, which facilitates a flow rate of up to 6.5 gallons per minute.
Size and portability
Depending on your space, a compact, lightweight chiller may be more convenient. Ensure it fits comfortably next to your ice bath setup without taking up too much room. The average water chiller is portable enough to move around without much effort. For reference, most measure around 15 by 15 by 15 inches on average, but some can be larger depending on how robust they are.
Our top picks: Size and Portability
- Vevor Aquarium Chiller: It’s the most robust water chiller, so it’s not ideal if you want to move it around from room to room.
- Poafamx Aquarium Chiller: This is the smallest water chiller and one of the most portable units.
- Ice Barrel Chiller and Plunge Evolve Standard Chiller with Heater: These units both have a similar size and durable build but aren’t too heavy, making them easy to move around.
- Arctic Warrior Advanced Water Chiller: Other than the Poafamx water chiller, this is the most compact and portable unit — but it’s also much more powerful.
