Desert Plunge FAQs

Desert Plunge – Cold Plunging FAQs

GENERAL COLD PLUNGE QUESTIONS

What’s the difference between a cold plunge and an ice bath?
The main difference is the method of cooling the water. Ice baths require frequent trips to buy ice or use an ice maker. Cold plunges use an electric chiller to keep the water at an optimal temperature (around 39 °F) and are ready at any time.
What is the purpose of a cold plunge?
Cold plunges offer several potential benefits including reducing swelling and inflammation, aiding post-workout recovery, relieving sore muscles, reducing the perception of pain from chronic conditions, increasing immunity, and boosting mental health.
How do cold plunge tubs work?
A pump circulates water through a chiller system: the chiller cools the water, then it returns to the tub. You set the temperature and the system maintains it.
What kind of chiller do I need for my cold plunge?
The chiller you need depends on factors like how cold you want the water, whether the unit is indoors or outdoors, your climate, and how often it will be used. For example, their ¼ HP chiller cools to 39 °F and is designed for hot climates while using less electricity.
Why don’t you use a 1 HP chiller?
Because their insulated tubs allow their ¼ HP chiller to reach the same low temperature (39 °F) while drawing less power (~6.2 A) compared to a 1 HP system which typically needs a 20-A dedicated circuit.
Why don’t you use an all-in-one chiller?
They’ve tested those and found they’re newer technology with greater risk: if one component fails you may have to send the entire unit in for repair, leaving the plunge unusable for weeks.

COLD PLUNGING HEALTH QUESTIONS

Are cold plunge baths good for you?
Cold plunges can help with injury and workout recovery, systemic inflammation, chronic pain, joint mobility, immunity, mental focus and mood — though individual results vary and you should consult a medical professional.
What does cold-water therapy do for your body?
Reported benefits include faster injury recovery, reduced inflammation, enhanced joint mobility, improved immunity, increased energy/focus, and triggering dopamine/norepinephrine release (linked to mood, alertness, motivation).
What can a cold tub do for your mental health?
Some studies show that cold exposure increases norepinephrine and dopamine levels, which can support improved mood, stress resilience, and focus.
How long should you stay in a cold plunge / how long can the average person stay in an ice bath?
It depends on temperature, body size, and cold sensitivity. A general recommendation is 3–5 minutes, gradually increasing over time. Shivering, skin color change or uncontrollable shaking are signs to exit.
Is cold plunging for everyone?
No — it’s important to consult a medical professional before starting, especially if pregnant, a child, or have heart, blood-pressure or circulation issues.
How often should you cold plunge?
It depends on your goals; some do it after workouts, some 2-3 times per week, others daily or twice daily.
Can I cold plunge every day?
Yes, many people do. But it should be based on your goals and how your body responds.

FILTER QUESTIONS

The water flow in my plunge slowed down.
This often signals the filter cartridge is dirty or the intake strainer is clogged.
How do I change my filter cartridge?
Locate the filter housing, put it in bypass mode, unscrew the housing, install a new cartridge, then return it to the original mode.
How often do I need to change my filter?
Depending on usage and user cleanliness, every week or two, or at least once a month. Do not rinse and reuse filters — always replace.
Where can I buy more filters for my cold plunge?
They provide links to recommended accessories and parts for filters and other items.
Why won’t my filter housing fill all the way with water?
It may be due to pressure build-up. Release the red pressure relief valve on the filter housing and/or slightly unscrew the housing to let water fill, then tighten again.

CHILLER QUESTIONS

How do I clean the chiller screens?
Pop out the side screens, hose them off, and clean them monthly (if outdoors) or every 1–2 months (if indoors).
Should I keep my plunge running in the winter if I’m outdoors in a freezing climate?
If temperatures drop below ~20 °F and the plunge is outdoors, you need to protect the system: ensure optimal water flow, inspect pump and filter, and follow winter care instructions (e.g., draining components, removing tubing, etc.).
Why does my chiller seem to shut on/off frequently before reaching set temperature?
Restricted flow may be the cause. Check filter cartridge, intake strainer, clean or replace as needed.
Is condensation on my pipes normal?
Yes — especially in humid or hot conditions. Use pipe insulation to prevent build-up.
Do I turn the chiller off at night or keep it on?
It’s best to keep the plunge set to the desired temperature. The system cycles based on a 2 °F differential (for example, if set to 45 °F, it will run until it hits 45, then shut off, then turn back on at ~47). Turning it off can cause longer recovery time.

PUMP QUESTIONS

Why is my pump making so much noise?
Likely the filter needs changing or the drain intake strainer is partially blocked.
I think there’s hair or something stuck in my pump. How do I get it out?
Follow their guide to disassemble and clean the pump – they provide instructions for removing debris and cleaning components.
Is it normal that my pump never shuts off?
Yes — the pump runs 24/7 to continuously circulate water through the filter.

OZONE QUESTIONS

What is ozone?
Ozone is a powerful oxidizer that helps eliminate bacteria, viruses and cysts in water. When used in well-ventilated outdoor setups, it supports better sanitation.
Should my ozone be running all the time?
No — if it’s running constantly it means the timer setting needs adjustment. It should typically run during off-peak hours (e.g., 12:00 a.m.–2:00 a.m.).
Where does my ozone plug in?
It should plug into the timer which then controls when the ozone generator runs.

INSTALLATION AND CARE QUESTIONS

How do I set up my Plunge?
Before delivery/pick-up, you’ll receive an instructional video. Setup usually takes about 30–40 minutes.
How long will it take for the water to get cold?
Depending on ambient temperature and humidity, the plunge will cool 2-5 °F per hour under typical conditions.
How do I set the water temperature on my chiller?
Hold the “set” button until it flashes/beeps, then use up/down buttons to adjust, then wait ~8 seconds until it stops flashing. Ensure the green switch on the side of the chiller is on.
Where can I get replacement filters or accessories?
They provide links for water treatment options, o-rings, etc.
Can I use my cold plunge outdoors?
Yes — but it should be placed under a covered patio or structure with proper ventilation for the chiller; certain precautions are necessary in cold climates.
How do I drain and store my cold plunge for winter?
If temperatures drop below ~20 °F and it's outdoors, you should disconnect components, drain, and cap return/intake holes, then store plumbing parts to prevent freeze damage.