A cold plunge only helps if you actually use it…
Ultimate Cold Plunge Buying Guide
This guide makes sure it fits your space, your routine, and your goals.... so you actually use it, and actually benefit.
TL;DR Summary
- What’s a cold plunge? A tub that keeps water cold on its own — no ice runs or constant draining.
- Why get one? Most people use it for recovery, pain relief, or energy/mood benefits.
- What types are out there? DIY tubs, external chillers, or all-in-one internal systems.
- Best for most people: Internal compressor based cooling systems are quieter, last longer, less of an eye sore, easier to repair, and can get colder.
- What features to look for? Look for filtration, sanitation, and consistent cooling.
- Will it fit your space? think about where it will go, what the space is, does it have an outlet, hose access, etc.
- What’s it cost? DIY starts cheap but adds up over time (and is time consuming and inconvenient). Quality plunges usually range from $4,000–$30,000+.
- Still not sure? Start with what goal matters most and choose the type that fits your space and habits.
Watch: Cold Plunge Buying Guide Video
Prefer to watch instead of read? Here's a quick video breakdown covering everything on this page.
What is a Cold Plunge Tub?
A cold plunge tub keeps water cold and clean without needing ice or harsh chemicals, so it's ready when you are. Some use built-in chillers, others rely on manual cooling or ice.
Why Are You Considering a Cold Plunge?
ASK YOURSELF.....
What’s your main reason for buying?
- Symptom relief (inflammation, pain, immunity)
- Fitness recovery
- Energy, metabolism, mood
Your reason affects which features and temps matter most.
Types of Cold Plunges
Cooling Systems
There are 3 main systems to get cold water (not including nature), each with pros and cons:
***if on mobile -> Scroll right to see more.
1. DIY Setups
- Pros: Easy to get started. Low initial cost
- Cons: Daily ice, no filtration, not convenient < costs more long term
2. External Chillers
- Pros: Fast cooling, modular, some heat
- Cons: Plumbing required, noisy, short lifespan, takes up space, eye sore
3. Compressor-Based Internal Systems
- Pros: Fully self-contained, freezing temps, quiet, efficient
- Cons: Slower initial cooldown (12–24 hrs), no heating, avoid direct sun
Tub Shapes & User Experience
Here are the 4 most common shapes of a cold plunge tub
Must-Have Features for Daily Use
Your Cold Plunge needs to be ready to go when you are
| Features | Daily Use |
|---|---|
| Cooling | |
| Safety Features | |
| Filtration, circulation, sanitation | |
| Ease of cleaning | |
| Support & warranty |
How Cold Is Cold Enough?
Your Cold Tolerance Builds Over Time
Most people start around 50°F. After a few weeks of consistent plunging, that no longer feels cold. To get the same benefit, you'll want colder water. Serious users eventually need temps in the low 40s or even low 30s.
What Temp Can Each Type Reach?
- DIY Ice Baths: Depends on the ice — no temp control.
- External Chillers: Most only cool to 39°F, but not below.
- Internal Compressor Systems: Can reach freezing and form a thin ice layer if desired.
A system that only reaches 39°F might feel cold today — but not forever.
Choose a setup that grows with your tolerance and goals.
What's Right for Your Space?
Top 10 real-world locations:
Make sure you have a flat surface, outlet, and hose access.
Setup & Use — What to Expect
- Youll need a flat stable surface
- GFCI outlet if not provided
- Faucet with hose for filling
- Way to drain and drain site
- Skimmer net for large debris
- Spa vacuum for heavier sediment
- Sanitation products for extending water life
Check out our full breakdown on where to put your cold plunge
Total Cost of Ownership
Using the Cost of a Fire Cold Plunge Tub as example:
- Upfront: ~$4,000
- Running cost: ~$15–30/month
- Filters: ~$30 every 3 months
- Optional: Ember Chill ($12/month), accessories
Compare to long-term cost of daily ice baths.
Help Me Decide: What Fits My Goals, Space, and Budget?
Use this section to match needs with product type:
- Goal → Recommended type
- Space → Tub shape & size
- Budget → Long-term vs short-term use
See our resource on the true cost of owning a cold plunge tub.
How to Set It Up
For the Fire Cold Plunge -> Put it where you want it, plug it in, and fill it with water — that’s it. The Fire Cold Plunge comes with a setup manual, but it’s about as easy as it gets.
- Place it on a flat surface (garage, patio, deck, etc.)
- Plug it into a standard outlet
- Set your target temperature using the control panel
- Fill it with a garden hose (wait 12–24 hours for full cool-down)
- Plunge daily for months — nothing else needed
Want to double check your space?
See the Cold Plunge Setup Checklist
How to Keep It Clean
Cold plunge maintenance is simple — and only takes a few minutes.. No scrubbing, draining after every use, or harsh chemicals required.
- Built-in filter catches debris and should be cleaned every 2 weeks with hot water and soap and replaced every 3 months
- Our ozone system runs automatically when not in use and helps kill bacteria and extend water life and can be adjusted to boost sanitation if needed
- Ember Chill (optional) can be added to keep water clearer and fresher for longer
- Drain and refill every ~3 months depending on use
- Skimming net included for removing pollen, leaves, or surface debris
- Siphon plunge vacuum included for clearing out small dirt or grit from the bottom
Full care guide here: How to Keep Your Plunge Clean
What Makes the Fire Cold Plunge Different?
It’s the simplest, most practical cold plunge on the market — built for daily use, not just show. You get everything you need to build a consistent habit, without overcomplicating it.
- Totally internal compressor-based cooling system down to 33 F - energy and space efficient, quiet, longer life.
- #1 Most Comfortable ergonomically shaped interior - the water is uncomfortable but not your back
- Sealed hard top lid - durable, insulating, water hygiene protecting
- Safest plunge on the market - duplicate safety features and convenient ON/OFF button
- No plumbing - no winterizing, no leaks
- Simple Set up
- Lightweight and moveable - easy to relocate if needed
- Ozone + filter system included for low-effort water care
- Clean, modern design that actually looks good in your space
- Plugs into a standard outlet - GFCI provided. No electrician or hardwiring required
- Access to network of repair technicians anywhere
- Backed by a real support team that responds when you need help
See how it compares side-by-side:
Fire Cold Plunge vs Other Brands
Cold Plunge FAQ
How long does it take to cool down? Initial cooldown takes about 12–24 hours. After that, the compressor-based chiller maintains your set temperature on a daily basis.
Can I use it indoors and outdoors? Yes — our product can be used indoors or outdoors covered. The Fire Cold Plunge is waterproof, UV resistant, heat resistant. Should not be in direct sun.
What accessories come with it? Each tub comes with a GFCI outlet extension, plunge skimmer, siphon plunge vacuum, 2 x extra filters, Ember Chill, towel hanger, timer, and setup guide.
Is it easy to move? Yes — it's light enough for most people to move with a friend or a dolly. Empty weight 180 lbs.
How much power does it use? It runs on a regular 110 V outlet and draws less than 3 amps — no dedicated circuit needed.
What is the design on the outside made of? Matt Black - Enamel based paint that is waterproof, UV-resistant. Sauna Skin - Automotive grade vinyl wrap that is waterproof, UV and heat resistant. These are built to last indoors or out.
How Safe is it? We follow above industry safety standards. The Fire Cold Plunge comes with manual reset self testing GFCI, surge protection, grounded componentry, certified plugs and cords, and a convenient on/off power switch.
Do I need to unplug it? No, there is a conveniently located power button that will shut off power to the entire system. So you don't have to worry about plugging or unplugging when wet.
How do you drain it? We provide a syphon activated plunge vacuum that comes with a 3/4" threaded hose fitting that attaches to a normal garden hose for draining at a distance. (We also sell a bilge pump and 15' hose for draining at elevation).
Still have questions? Visit the full Cold Plunge FAQ page for more.
Still Deciding?
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
If you’re not 100% sure about your setup, space, or just want to talk it out — our team is happy to help. No pressure. No sales pitch.
- Personalized advice for your layout and routine
- Quick answers on anything from power to placement
- Live chat available during business hours
Want the 1-Page Summary?
Download the printable version of this guide — everything you need to know on one page.
- Key takeaways on cost, placement, setup, and maintenance
- Perfect for sharing with a spouse or reviewing later
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