FAQ's

About Cold Creek Tubs

Why Cold Creek Tubs?

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With over 25 years of manufacturing experience, we build high-quality cold tubs in-house — no middlemen, just expert craftsmanship, honest pricing, and more value. Finally, a premium cold tub, without the premium price.

Sleek, fully enclosed design
No bulky external hoses or clutter. Just a clean, minimalist design that looks great anywhere, even your wife will approve.

Easy to use, low maintenance
Setup is quick and easy — just connect the chiller and filter, plug it in, fill with water, and you're ready to go. Maintenance is simple — the 20" filter and built-in ozone system work together to keep your water clean with minimal upkeep.

Always cold, always clean
Our tubs feature a built-in ozone purification system and filter to keep your water clean, plus a powerful chiller and superior insulation to ensure it stays cold always ready.

Why are Cold Creek Tubs less expensive than other premium cold tub companies?

Direct pricing from us, the manufacturer—no middlemen, just value.

When we first got into cold therapy, we were shocked to see some premium tubs costing over $10,000. Much of that pricing came from outsourced components and distributor markups.

With 25+ years of manufacturing experience, we knew we could build a better tub at a better price. By designing and producing everything in-house, we cut out the middleman and pass the savings directly to you — without compromising quality.

Which tub style is best for me — Horizontal or Vertical?

Both deliver premium cold therapy — it just depends on the style of experience you prefer.

Vertical Tub

Compact footprint
Upright seated posture
Quick, efficient plunging for fast daily resets
Available as Full Setup (chiller + filtration) or Tub-Only (ice-molds method)

Horizontal Tub

Traditional lounge-style immersion
Larger interior with a more spacious feel
Ideal for longer, deeper cold therapy sessions
Massive filter with very low maintenance
If you prefer the easiest entry and a more spacious immersion — especially helpful for older adults or anyone with reduced flexibility — the Horizontal Tub is the ideal choice

Need inspiration or placement ideas? Check out photos of real Customer Setups

Cold Water Therapy

What is cold water therapy?

Cold water therapy involves immersing the body in cold water for a short period. Used for centuries by athletes to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness, this method benefits both physical and mental well-being. Cold exposure activates the sympathetic nervous system, releasing neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, boost mood, and enhance overall wellness.

Just a few minutes of cold exposure can invigorate your body and mind, leaving you feeling more energized, focused, and resilient!

What are the benefits of cold water?

Cold water immersion is an ancient wellness practice now backed by modern medical research. It offers a wide range of physical and mental health benefits, including:

Reduced Inflammation
Enhanced Muscle Recovery
Increased Energy Levels
Boosted Metabolism
Improved Circulation
Better Mood
Resilience Building
Strengthened Immune System
Better Sleep
Sharpened Mental Clarity

Who can benefit from cold water therapy?

Anyone looking to enhance their overall health and well-being! Incorporating cold plunges into a wellness routine can provide a holistic approach to improving physical and mental health.

What tips do you recommend for beginners?

Starting your cold plunging journey can be a thrilling adventure! While it might feel a bit uncomfortable at first, after a few sessions, you’ll see just how rewarding those few minutes can be.

Start with a temperature that feels uncomfortably cold yet manageable. Most people start with 1-2 minutes and gradually increase your time as you acclimate. Our tub is designed for all body types, allowing you to control the depth of your plunge by pressing your toes against the end.

Embrace the process and enjoy the benefits!

What is the optimum temperature and duration?

The ideal temperature is one that you can commit to. Begin with a temperature that is tolerably cold and gradually decrease it as your body adapts. Aim for a level that feels challenging but manageable.

Start with brief exposure times and gradually increase as your body acclimates. Consistency is key. Always listen to your body.

Horizontal Tub

What are the electrical & setup requirements?

Cold Creek Tubs are designed for simple setup — no plumbing or special wiring needed.

Electrical: 120V / 15A standard household outlet (3-prong plug). We recommend a 12-gauge heavy-duty outdoor extension cord when needed (Example Extension Cord)

Water: Hose connection nearby for filling and draining (shorter hoses drain faster and reduce pressure on the pump)

What is the delivery process?

Your Cold Creek Tub is shipped vertically on a pallet via FedEx Freight Premium Delivery. Upon arrival, FedEx will deliver the tub to the room of your choice and remove the packaging.

Once delivered, setup is straightforward and requires no tools—simply connect the chiller and filter, plug the unit into a standard outlet, fill it with water, and you're ready to go. Feel free to check out our setup guide.

Please note that deliveries to Hawaii, Alaska, and U.S. territories may take an additional 2–3 weeks. International shipping times will vary based on your location.

How do I set up my cold tub, and how long will it take?

Setting up your tub is quick and straightforward — no tools needed. Just connect the chiller, attach the filter, plug it in, fill it with water, and you’re good to go! (It actually takes longer to fill with water than to set up.)

👉 Setup Overview Video

👉 Full Setup Guide

Want to plunge right away? It can take up to 12-24 hours for the water to reach your desired temperature, depending on your hose water and surrounding conditions — but you can speed things up by adding ice for same-day use! 🧊

Can my cold tub go outdoors?

Absolutely—our tubs are essentially a human-sized Yeti cooler. With thick insulation in both the tub and lid, along with a powerful 1/2 HP chiller, they’re built to maintain consistently cold water even in hot summer climates.

In colder conditions, the chiller includes freeze protection to help maintain safe temperatures. If temperatures drop into the single digits for extended periods, we recommend following our winterization guide for best practices.

Like any outdoor furniture, placing your tub in a covered or shaded area will help keep it in the best condition over time. For Black Tubs, full shade is required, as any direct sun exposure can cause excess heat absorption.

What should I know about the chiller?

Our Cold Creek Tub features a ½ HP chiller with freeze protection that’s powerful, efficient, and simple.

Cooling Performance: ½ HP chiller with freeze protection cools water to 39°F
Power Efficiency: Draws just 3–4 amps and only runs as needed in standby mode
Small Temperature Fluctuation: To reduce wear and extend lifespan, the chiller uses Smart Cycling with a 3-degree dead band. This means if you set the temp to 50°F, the unit will shut off at 50°F and won’t turn back on until the water warms to about 53°F. Want the water to stay closer to your target? Set it a few degrees lower (e.g., 48°F to hover near 50°F).
Quiet Operation: Runs at a low ~20 dB(A) — about as quiet as a fridge
Easy Controls: Adjust temp when needed in seconds with built-in side vent buttons — no app, no hassle

What should I know about the pump?

Our tubs are equipped with a high-efficiency Danner pump (1,200 GPH) that keeps your water moving—clean, clear, and always ready to use.

Always Running?
Yes. The pump is intended to operate continuously to prevent water stagnation and the accumulation of debris or buildup.

Energy Use?
Very minimal. It draws just 1.5 amps, which averages about $1 per day to operate (based on California’s ~$0.30/kWh electricity rate).

Leaving Town?
If you’ll be away for an extended period and want to shut off your cold tub, we recommend: Draining the tub completely (see the draining procedure) and unplugging the unit from the outlet. To drain any remaining water, the chiller should be carefully tilted on its side for 30 to 60 seconds. After draining, it’s important to return the unit to an upright position and avoid using it for at least 12 hours to allow the internal components to stabilize. Make sure to remove and drain the filter as well.

Important: Never run the pump dry. Always turn off power before draining completely to avoid damage.

Why do we use such a large 20-inch filter?

We use an oversized 20-inch filter to provide high-capacity filtration, which means it can trap more debris and contaminants over time—reducing how often it needs to be cleaned or replaced. The result? Cleaner water with less maintenance.

How does the ozone purification system work?

Every Cold Creek Tub includes a built-in ozone purification system designed to keep your water clean with minimal maintenance.

Ozone (O₃) is a powerful natural oxidizer that breaks down bacteria, odor, and other contaminants in the water. It’s automatically injected into the water flow and works quietly in the background to sanitize and purify —helping reduce chemical usage and extend the time between water changes.

The system is pre-set to run for 3 hour each night. However, there's a built-in timer inside the unit if you’d like to adjust the duration or change the schedule. We recommend 3-5 hours at night for optimal performance.

Why don’t we offer WIFI application?

Changing the temperature of any cold tub isn’t an instant process; therefore, we felt an app simply over complicated the process and added unnecessary cost.

Changing the temperature on Cold Creek Tubs takes only seconds and can actually be faster than with most apps. Simply open the side vent and reduce or increase the temperature. That’s it.

Will I fit?

Yes! Our tubs are designed with a deep and spacious layout to comfortably fit users of all sizes. We've had customers and athletes up to 6'7" fully immerse up to their necks with ease. You'll have plenty of room to get the most out of your cold water experience.

There are also multiple ways to use the Cold Creek Tub, whether you're new to cold therapy or already hooked:

Sit for full-body immersion (legs can rest flat or against the wall in a crouched athletic position)
Kneel and rest your arms for lower-body immersion
Or sit on the decking and dip your feet in to ease in gradually

No matter how you use it, the Cold Creek Tub is built to support your routine, your way.

What materials are the tubs made with?

Our tubs are made with high-quality rotomolded polyethylene — similar to the durable material used in Yeti coolers. The body is then injected with 4 inches of foam insulation for strength, durability, and performance.

The top surfaces — including the tub, lid, and step — are finished with marine-grade EVA foam decking. While designed to look like wood, it’s actually the same material used on the flooring of wakeboard boats. This EVA foam is comfortable, non-slip, and extremely durable, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.

Horizontal - Operation and Maintenance

What is the maintenance for keeping the water clean?

Our tubs are designed for easy use with minimal upkeep. The primary maintenance item is the filter. With the help of our built-in ozone system and oversized 20" filter, your water stays clean—but regular filter and water changes are essential.

Residential Use

Replace the filter and change the water every 2–3 months, or sooner if the water becomes cloudy or jet flow slows.
Check out Maintenance Recommendations & Directions

Tips

💡 For convenience, change the water whenever you change the filter.
Replacement filters are available here.

How does the water stay clean and cold?

Similar to a refrigerator, our tubs are always ready when you are—just open and get in.

To keep the water clean, a built-in automatic ozone purification system works alongside an oversized 20" filter to maintain water clarity, without harsh chemicals or frequent water changes.

To keep the water cold, a powerful ½ HP chiller combined with 4 inches of insulation maintains consistent temperatures efficiently, no matter the season.

When I’m out of town or taking a break, what should I do with my tub?

If you’ll be away for 3+ weeks, we recommend:

Draining the tub completely
Unplugging the unit

For tubs located outdoors in cold temperatures, the chiller and filter should always be brought indoors to prevent potential damage.

Do I need to turn the tub on or off?

Short Answer: No — just leave it plugged in all the time!

We designed our tubs to be as hands-off as possible. Once your temperature is set, your tub is ready whenever you are — just remove the lid and jump in.

Always Plugged In: The tub should remain plugged in at all times.
Pump Always Running: The pump runs continuously to keep water circulating and primed.
Chiller: Stays in standby and only activates when needed to maintain your set temperature.
When to Adjust: The only time you’ll need to touch the controls is when you want to: Change the temperature, adjust the ozone timer, change the filter or water.

Think of it like a refrigerator — always plugged in, always ready for you. Just open it up (or in this case, take off the lid) and get in!

How to drain the water?

Draining and refilling the tub is quick and simple. Just attach a hose to the built-in hose spigot, and the pump will handle the rest.

Steps to Drain the Tub
1. Keep your tub plugged in. The tub drains using the pump.
2. Attach a hose to the built-in hose spigot on the tub. (Tip: the shorter the hose, the faster it will drain)
3. Turn the blue hose valve on the spigot. Water will begin flowing through the hose.
4. When the tub is almost fully drained, keep an eye on it and turn off the tub once empty to prevent the pump from running dry.

How to drain video

How do I care for my tub in freezing winter climates?

If you plan to continue plunging through the winter, always keep your cold tub plugged in and covered with the lid on. This helps maintain proper circulation and reduces the risk of freezing.

Your chiller includes built-in freeze protection designed to help keep the system running safely and reliably in cold weather.

For more detailed guidance or additional precautions, we recommend reviewing our Winter Care Guide.

Is condensation on my filter normal?

Yes, condensation on the filter is completely normal—especially in warm, humid climates. Our extra-large 20" filter has more surface area exposed to air, which can naturally cause light condensation. There's no harm to the system, and filter sleeves will be available soon to help manage moisture and keep things clean.

How much energy does the tub use (and what does it cost to run)?

Energy use is very minimal. The pump draws just 1.5 amps, which in most states costs around $0.50–$1.00 per day to operate, depending on local electricity rates.

Example: In California (where electricity averages ~$0.30/kWh), that’s about $1 per day.
States with lower electricity rates will be closer to $0.50/day.

The chiller is also designed for efficiency — it remains in standby mode and only turns on when needed to maintain your set temperature. It does not run 24/7.

Vertical Tub

Will I fit in the Vertical Tub?

The Vertical Tub comfortably fits most individuals up to 6'4", allowing for full submersion and head dunks if desired. Most users achieve full exposure without issue, especially if they’re reasonably flexible.

If you have limited mobility or prefer easier entry and exit, our Horizontal Tub may feel more comfortable to you, as it offers additional space and accessibility. That said, the Vertical Tub works very well for the majority of users up to 6'4".

See below for visual references:

Demonstration video featuring users ranging from 5'5" to 6'4"
6'3" Athlete Video

Which Vertical Tub setup is best for me?

Our Vertical Cold Tub is available in two setups—it simply comes down to how you plan to use your tub.

• Vertical Full Setup

Includes the all-in-one cooling & filtration unit, fully concealed beneath an enclosed step.

Designed for effortless, daily plunging—set it and forget it with clean, consistently cold water.

• Vertical Tub-Only Setup

Includes the tub and small step, and pairs with ice molds for manual cooling.

Ideal for DIY setups, ice plungers, or those just getting started—a flexible, lower-commitment option.

What are the dimensions and specs?

Specs (Both Setups)

Interior Dims: 24.5" W × 29" L × 38.5" H
Tub Weight (Dry): 82 lbs
Fill Capacity: 48 gallons recommended; 75 gallons max (full)

Full Setup (Tub + All-in-One Unit)

Exterior: 27.5" W × 56" L × 40" H (44" H with lid)
Tub Weight (Dry): 82 lbs / Filled Weight: ~530–700 lbs

Tub Only (Tub + Small Step)

Exterior: 27.5" W × 32" L × 40" H (44" with lid)
Filled Weight: ~455 lbs filled

What is the electrical requirement?

Full Setup (Tub + All-in-One Unit)

Requires a standard 120V / 15A GFCI household outlet
Includes a 6 ft power cord (extension-cord compatible)

Tub Only (Tub + Small Step)

None! Just place it anywhere and add ice (Cold Creek Ice Molds make it even easier)

What is the shipping and setup process?

Shipping and setup are simple.

The Full Setup (with Chiller Unit) ships via FedEx Freight. Once delivered, you can be up and plunging in just 10–15 minutes. See Instructions

The Tub-Only option ships via Ground directly to your door. No installation required—simply fill with water and add your Ice Molds.

What is the maintenance for the Vertical Tub (Full Setup)?

Our Vertical Tubs are designed for simple, low-maintenance care. The All-in-One Cooling & Filtration Unit works continuously to keep your water fresh, but routine upkeep is important for optimal performance.

For residential use, we recommend:

Changing the water monthly
Changing the 5" filter monthly (for Full Setup models)

Quick & Easy Draining:

The built-in drain spout at the bottom of the tub connects to any standard garden hose, making draining fast and convenient.

Filter Changes:

Simply remove the 5" filter from the chiller unit and replace it with a Cold Creek replacement filter.

For step-by-step instructions, visit our Routine Care & Maintenance page.

Where can I place my Vertical Cold Tub?

You can place your Vertical Tub indoors or outdoors, anywhere that fits your space. Our tubs are fully insulated, extremely durable, and built to handle year-round conditions — from freezing winters to hot climates.

The chiller includes built-in freeze protection to help keep the system running safely and reliably in cold weather.

With its compact footprint and clean, modern design, the Vertical Tub fits easily in tight spaces and looks great in a home, gym, backyard, garage, or patio.

How do I drain the water?

Each tub features a built-in drain spigot at the bottom. Simply attach a standard garden hose, direct it to a suitable drainage area, and the water will drain automatically using gravity.

How to Drain Video

Routine Care & Maintenance Instructions

To drain directly from the drain spigot:

Unplug your tub.
Open the valve located above the drain spigot.
Water will begin flowing out automatically.

To use a hose to direct the water:

Unplug your tub.
Attach a standard garden hose to the drain spigot.
Place the other end of the hose in a suitable drainage area.
Water will drain automatically using gravity.

To refill the tub:

Close the blue valve above the hose spigot to begin refilling.
Fill with water
Plug tub back in to power on.

Do I need to winterize my tub in freezing conditions?

Your chiller has built-in freeze protection, so as long as it is powered on and running, it will automatically prevent the water from freezing.

You only need to winterize your tub if you plan to turn it off or stop using it during freezing temperatures. In that case, drain the tub completely, remove the chiller, and store it indoors in a dry, temperature-controlled space.

Important: Never leave the chiller unplugged with water inside during freezing conditions, as this can cause damage.

When I’m out of town or taking a break, what should I do with my tub?

If you’ll be away for 3+ weeks, we recommend:

Draining the tub completely
Unplugging the unit

For tubs located outdoors in cold temperatures, the chiller should always be brought indoors to prevent potential damage.

Are there child safety locks?

Yes — the Vertical Tub includes child safety locks for added security and peace of mind. The locks are quick and easy to install — simply screw them onto your tub.

Can I hook up an existing chiller to your Tub Only?

Yes — our Tub Only setup is designed for easy integration with existing chillers, featuring 3/4" bulkhead fittings for a simple connection.

Can I upgrade from Tub-Only to the All-in-One Cooling & Filtration Unit?

Absolutely — you can upgrade anytime. The Tub-Only setup has built-in upgrade compatibility, so adding the All-in-One Unit and enclosed step is quick and easy. If you started with the Vertical Tub Only and now want the full cooling and filtration system, simply purchase the All-in-One Cooling Unit & Enclosed Step, which includes everything needed for consistent cooling and clean, clear water.

What is included in the All-in-One Cooling & Filtration Unit (Full Setup)?

The All-in-One Unit is a fully integrated cooling & purification unit — everything is built into one compact chiller housing to deliver consistent, clean, always-cold water. It includes:

½ HP chiller with freeze protection
24/7 circulation pump
5" filter
Ozone purification system

Keeps your tub always ready — just remove the lid and plunge. No adjustments needed. The system is fully hidden under the enclosed step for a clean, seamless look.

Commercial Use

Are there special setup requirements for commercial use?

No, there are no special installation requirements for commercial use. The setup is the same as residential and includes:

A standard 110V electrical outlet
A nearby water source
12" of clearance around the three vented sides for proper airflow and access
A flat, level surface, either indoors or outdoors (outdoor setups must be fully shaded or covered)

What are the maintenance requirements in a commercial setting due to higher usage?

We’re excited for you and your guests to experience the Cold Creek Tub difference! Whether you're operating a gym, spa, or wellness center, consistent maintenance is key for peak performance and hygiene:

Every 3-5 Weeks: Replace the water filter
Every Month: Drain and refill the tub with fresh water

👉 For full details, check out our Commercial Use Care Guide.

Warranty and Support

What is the warranty coverage?

We stand behind our products with the following warranty coverage:

5 Years: Full coverage on all components except the chiller (normal wear & tear).

2-Year Warranty on the Chiller: The chiller is covered for 2 years, except when used in a commercial environment, where it is covered for 1 year. Chiller Warranty Upgrade: You can extend your chiller warranty to 5 years for $299.

Out-of-Warranty? We've Got You Covered: If your chiller fails outside of the warranty coverage, no stress — we've got your back. We offer replacement chillers at a discounted rate to keep you up and running without the hassle.

Do you offer financing?

Absolutely. We’ve partnered with Affirm and Shop Pay to offer flexible, low-interest financing options to fit your budget. Simply select your preferred provider at checkout.

You can also learn more about using HSA/FSA funds here.

Do you ship internationally?

We are currently only shipping to US Territories, Puerto Rico and Australia. In areas that use 220V outlets, a step up, step down convertor will be required.