Curious about cold plunging and its perks? Ice is an accessible, low-cost solution for beginners to get started and develop a consistent routine while reaping the benefits.
6 things to consider with Ice:
- When using ice, the cooling time and target temperature can differ depending on the ambient temperature, whether indoors or outdoors. In warmer environments, more ice will be required to bring the water to the desired temperature.
- When planning your cold plunge, keep the setup in mind. Using a tub requires extra ice, as the increased water-to-air exposure speeds up ice melting and causes the water to warm up more quickly.
- Since an ice-only cold plunge lacks the filtration system of a chiller to eliminate debris, it’s a good idea to use a skimmer and frequently refresh the water to ensure it stays clean and safe.
- Without a system to remove bacteria, it's best to refresh the water after every 3-5 uses to ensure cleanliness. If you notice cloudiness or an unpleasant smell, replace the water immediately.
- Ice is best suited for one-time use and a single person. Once it comes into contact with water, melting begins rapidly, making it essential to immerse yourself quickly, especially in summer temperatures.
- Have a water thermometer handy to monitor water temperature and adjust ice levels as needed to reach your desired cold plunge temperature.
How many bags of Ice do I need and how much will it cost?
There are a few things that need to be taken into account when considering the amount of ice needed for cold plunging: the size of the cold plunge, starting water temperature and the desired water temperature.
The assumptions below are based on a starting water temperature of 70°F, a desired cold plunge temperature of 55°F in a 70 gallon pod.
- 5 bags of ice, 16 pounds per bag = 80 pounds of ice
- $4.19 per bag of ice
- $21 per cold plunge session
- 4 plunges per week for a year = $4,358
- 3 plunges per week for a year = $3,268
- 2 plunges per week for a year = $2,179
Ice is a great way to get started with cold plunging. For those seeking to elevate their approach or invest in a more sustainable solution, providing superior convenience and value, consider OSONE Chillers. For fresh, clean, always ready, iceless water, click here.