Cold Plunge Troubleshooting

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FAQ — Ice Bath & Chiller Troubleshooting

Power Chiller
Water Quality
Ice Bath Tub
De-Icer

Power Chiller

1. Can I use the chiller in freezing conditions?

Technically, it can — but we strongly advise against it. If the power goes out in deep cold, the water inside the unit freezes and causes damage that is not covered by the warranty (misuse). In winter, unplug the chiller, drain it completely, and store it in a heated area. Use the Eternal Ice De-Icer to keep the bath water from freezing.

2. The breaker trips while the chiller is running

Plug the chiller alone into a dedicated 15 A circuit (110 V), no extension cord. At startup the draw can briefly peak around 22 A — that's normal, and a healthy breaker tolerates it. If the breaker trips after the chiller has been running for a while, the running current is too high — almost always for one of two reasons: the condenser fins (the grille at the back) are dirty or airflow is blocked, making the compressor work harder; or the outlet voltage is low (extension cord, shared circuit), so the compressor draws more current to compensate. Gently clean the fins (soft brush or compressed air), keep at least 30 cm (12 in) of clearance around the unit, and check the connection. Still tripping? Call us: 418-809-0331 or ask us in the chat.

3. Water is not circulating or the pump makes gurgling noise

Never run the pump dry. Make sure the filter housing is pre-filled with water before each startup. If the pump gurgles, slightly loosen the filter housing so the bell fills with water, then retighten. Check all system connections (hoses, fittings, filter housing) — 99% of reported issues are caused by an air leak in the system. Make sure hoses are not kinked.

4. What is the chiller settings password?

The default password to access the chiller settings is 666666.

5. The display is in Fahrenheit, how do I switch to Celsius?

By default, the chiller displays in Fahrenheit. To switch to Celsius: in the settings (password 666666), go to page 13, option n°01 and change the value to 0 for Celsius (1 = Fahrenheit).

6. How often should I replace the filter?

The filter should be replaced approximately every month, depending on water quality and usage (sunscreen, grass, mineral content, etc.). If water flow decreases noticeably, it's time to replace it sooner. A replacement filter is included with the chiller, and the filter housing wrench is provided for easy access.

7. The chiller is making unusual noise

Normal operation has two modes: a compressor hum comparable to a home air conditioner while cooling, then the lighter whir of the circulation pump between cycles — both are normal. If you hear clicking or excessive vibration, ensure the unit is on a flat, stable surface (a rubber mat is recommended). Make sure no objects are touching the housing and that the stainless steel caster wheels are properly installed. If the noise persists, contact support.

8. The chiller displays an error code

Turn the unit off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on. If the code persists, contact us at info@eternalicebath.com, (418) 809-0331, or in the chat.

9. The chiller is not cooling enough

For reference, the chiller can go from 19°C down to about 2°C in 5 to 6 hours with 450 L of water at 29°C ambient temperature. If cooling seems abnormally slow: check that the 50-micron filter is not clogged, that insulated hoses are not kinked or blocked, and that the insulated tub lid is closed. If ambient temperature is very high (above 35°C / 95°F), the chiller may take longer.

10. The chiller Wi-Fi won't connect

The chiller only connects to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks. Make sure your router broadcasts a separate 2.4 GHz network (not a combined 2.4/5 GHz). Move the chiller closer to the router during initial setup. Reset the Wi-Fi by holding the Wi-Fi button for 5 seconds. Once connected, you can control your chiller from anywhere — even outside your home Wi-Fi network.

11. The chiller is leaking

Verify that Teflon tape was applied clockwise to all threaded ½" NPT connections. Hold the bath fitting with pliers while tightening with a wrench to prevent it from loosening. Do not over-tighten. If the leak is coming from the unit itself, turn it off, unplug it, and contact support.

12. Is the chiller positioned correctly?

Place the chiller on a stable, flat surface near the bath. Keep it at the same level as the tub or lower — never on a deck or platform above it. The pump is not self-priming: placed higher than the bath it has to lift water, loses its prime, and draws air instead of water (see “Water isn't circulating or the pump is gurgling”). Leave at least 1 foot (30 cm) of clearance on all sides for proper ventilation. Avoid direct sunlight (exterior surfaces become extremely hot). The unit is IPX4 rated (splash-resistant), but the electrical connection (110V, 7.9A when cooling) should be on a moisture-protected outlet. Orient the plug so the cord exits the bottom and hangs below the outlet: an upside-down outlet lets rainwater wick down the cord into the receptacle and can cause a short circuit. Never force the plug or cord.

13. The compressor doesn't start immediately

This is normal. The compressor has a 3-minute startup delay each time it powers on to protect the system. The water pump and ozone start immediately, but the compressor will wait 3 minutes before cooling or heating begins.

14. The displayed temperature is lower than the actual water temperature

This can happen when water flow is insufficient. The cold inside the heat exchanger cannot be carried away properly, resulting in a lower reading. Check that hoses are not kinked, that the filter is not clogged, and that the water level is adequate. If error code 15 appears, the temperature sensor is at fault.

15. I just received my chiller, what should I do before first use?

Let the chiller stand upright at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours before first use, to allow the refrigerant to settle after transport. Do not plug in the unit before this period.

16. How long does the ozone system last?

The chiller's built-in ozone system has a lifespan of approximately 20,000 hours. It is recommended to run ozone for one hour at a time while the chiller is operating — an automatic 1-hour cycle runs each time the chiller starts. At that usage rate, the ozone system can last for many years without needing replacement.

17. I have a custom or modified installation (homemade hoses, custom plumbing) — can you help?

We're glad to help where we can. First, inspect the suction side of the pump for any signs of air ingress, and confirm that filters, strainers, hoses, and valves are free of obstructions — the large majority of unstable flow comes from air intake or a restriction. That said, when an installation differs from the standard configuration — longer hose runs, piping that rises and falls, non-Eternal Ice fittings, or custom plumbing — air can become trapped in the circuit and cause the flow to fluctuate. Because we weren't involved in the design of that setup and aren't on-site to observe it running, it's difficult for us to give a definitive diagnosis: system behavior is strongly influenced by hose routing and site-specific factors outside our visibility. Send us your observations — via chat, email, or phone — and we'll guide you as best we can.
Download the User Guide (PDF)

Water Quality

1. Hygiene best practices before bathing

To keep the water clean as long as possible, adopt good habits before each immersion: rinse off quickly to remove sunscreen, sweat, dirt, and grass residue. Avoid entering the tub with dirty or muddy feet. The cleaner the water stays, the less often you'll need to change the filter and water.

2. How often should I change the water?

Frequency depends on usage, maintenance, and environment. In summer, dirt, sunscreen, grass, sweat, and dust accelerate water degradation — plan for more frequent changes. With good hygiene before bathing, a clean filter, and regular ozone use, water can last several weeks. Change the water if it remains cloudy despite filter replacement. In winter, water stays clean longer (see Water management in winter).

3. Should I use chemicals?

We do not recommend using chemicals (chlorine, bromine, etc.) at this time. The chiller is equipped with a built-in ozone system that automatically sanitizes the water. Combined with good hygiene before bathing, a clean filter, and regular water changes, ozone is sufficient to maintain healthy water.

4. Water management in winter

In winter, water generally stays cleaner — less dirt, no sunscreen, and less bacterial activity due to the cold. Plan to replace the water 2 to 3 times during the winter. If ice forms on the surface, simply break the ice, remove it, and add a few buckets of fresh water to compensate. This is often sufficient to maintain good water quality throughout the cold season.

5. The water is cloudy or milky

Check and adjust the pH (ideal: 7.2–7.6) and alkalinity (80–120 ppm). Replace the 50-micron filter if it's dirty. Run an ozone cycle manually (an automatic 1-hour cycle runs each time the chiller starts). If the issue persists after 24 hours, consider a full water change.

6. The water has a bad smell

Run an ozone cycle. Check that the filter is clean. If the water hasn't been changed in a long time, do a full water change. Always keep the insulated lid on when the tub is not in use to reduce debris.

7. Algae or film is forming in the tub

This indicates insufficient sanitation. Drain the tub, clean the walls with a non-abrasive cloth and mild soap, rinse thoroughly, and refill with fresh water. Increase the frequency of ozone cycles.

8. Water flow has decreased

The 50-micron filter is likely clogged. Use the included filter housing wrench to remove it, inspect, and replace if necessary (a replacement filter is included with the chiller). Also check that hoses are not obstructed.

9. How do I properly balance the water?

Use test strips to measure pH (7.2–7.6), alkalinity (80–120 ppm), and hardness (150–250 ppm). Adjust with balancing products available at hardware or pool supply stores. Test the water at least once a week. Proper balancing protects components and reduces filter replacement frequency.

10. How often should I run the ozone cycle?

The chiller runs an automatic 1-hour ozone cycle each time it starts, which is usually enough for regular use. You can also trigger manual cycles whenever the water looks cloudy, develops an odor, or after heavy use. Since the ozone generator has a lifespan of approximately 20,000 hours, running it regularly — even daily — won't wear it out prematurely. The recommended run time is one hour at a time while the chiller is operating.

Ice Bath Tub

1. A leak at the tub connection ports

Partially drain the tub, dry the fitting area, and apply Teflon tape (minimum 5 wraps clockwise). Hold the bath fitting with pliers while tightening with a wrench. Refill and check. If the leak persists, contact support at info@eternalicebath.com.

2. The drain plug is leaking

Make sure the stainless steel plug is properly tightened and the seal is in good condition. Apply Teflon tape if needed. On the HD Pro, drainage is via the integrated plug. On the HD Ultimate, drainage is via the lower connection port or the stainless steel valve (if provided).

3. The water cools down too slowly without a chiller

The 45 mm polyurethane foam insulation maintains temperature effectively. Without a chiller, use ice. The more ice you add, the faster the temperature will drop. In summer, tap water is warmer — plan for more ice. For precise control between 2°C and 40°C, the Eternal Ice Power Chiller is recommended.

4. The lid doesn't close properly

Check that hoses are not blocking the lid. On the HD Ultimate, the lid has a dedicated side opening for the de-icer. Make sure the tub is on a flat, stable surface capable of supporting the water-filled weight.

5. The tub has slight discoloration

Natural discoloration can occur over time due to UV exposure and water contact. This does not affect the performance or structural integrity of the tub (LLDPE 5 mm for HD Pro, MDPE 5 mm for HD Ultimate). It is normal and not covered under warranty.

6. How do I clean the inside of the tub?

Use a non-abrasive cloth with mild soap to clean the interior walls. Rinse thoroughly before refilling. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that could damage the surface.

De-Icer

1. Do I need a de-icer for winter?

It depends on how often you use your tub and weather conditions. If you use your bath every day, simply breaking the surface ice is usually enough — a de-icer is not necessary with an insulated tub. If you use your bath 3 times a week or less, a de-icer is strongly recommended to prevent ice from building up too thick between sessions. It all depends on weather conditions — during prolonged extreme cold, even daily use may require a de-icer.

2. How does the de-icer work?

The Eternal Ice De-Icer is a 1000W submersible heater made of cast aluminum with an anti-rust coating. Its intelligent thermostat activates automatically below 2°C (35°F) and deactivates at 25°C (77°F). Simply submerge it fully in the water and plug it in — it operates silently and automatically.

3. Is the de-icer covered by warranty?

The de-icer is warranted against manufacturing defects. However, damage caused by external conditions (extreme frost, misuse, dry operation) is not covered. We cannot control weather conditions — the de-icer is a prevention tool, not an absolute guarantee against freezing.

4. Can I control the temperature with an external thermostat?

Yes. The de-icer can be paired with an external temperature controller like an Inkbird or similar device with a temperature probe. This allows you to set a precise temperature range for automatic start and stop of the de-icer, giving you better control over the water temperature in winter.

5. Important safety instructions

The de-icer must be fully submerged before plugging it in — never run it dry. Never enter the bath while the de-icer is plugged in, to avoid any risk of electric shock or burns. Always unplug the device before entering the water.

6. Is the de-icer compatible with my tub?

The de-icer is compatible with both the HD Pro and HD Ultimate models. Installation is simple: pass the cable through the dedicated opening in the lid or side. The de-icer is built to withstand the harshest Canadian winters.
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