DIY Ultimate Cold Plunge | How To Build Your Own Ice Bath Cold Therapy | Cheap Freezer Hacks & Tips
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- čas přidán 7. 11. 2021
- Want to build your own Cold Plunge or Ice Bath? I'll walk you through the Ultimate Setup with ideas and product links to help you create an amazing cold water therapy experience.
// FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE ULTIMATE COLD PLUNGE KEEP WATCHING • DIY Cold Plunge Therap...
// WHY COLD PLUNGE?
The benefits of cold therapy have been practiced for over 1,000 years. More information at www.npr.org/sections/health-s...
// TEMPERATURE
A good temperature for your cold plunge is around 50°F. No need to go much colder. The benefits - like noradrenaline production - begin at 60°F water exposure.
// DIAGRAM - COLD PLUNGE SETUP WITH PUMP & OZONE GENERATOR
drive.google.com/file/d/1Zg_f...
// PRODUCT LINKS
*Note: These are what I used with my setup: Whirlpool - 14.8 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer - White Model:WZC3115DW. Customize as needed for your own version. Also, prices displayed in video may vary from current market prices.
🛒 Sikaflex - Nautical Sealant amzn.to/3VVv2KG
🛒 Pond Armor Paint (Optional) amzn.to/3eZLpVM
I used two of the (1.5 quart) kits and had a little left over.
🛒 Color Texture Chips (Optional) amzn.to/3DtbpSY
* Note: I changed the color chips to blue. Check out the new look • Tips for Paint & Color...
🛒 Pump/Filter (filter, hoses, extra fittings and inlet cage are included) amzn.to/3N1FJas
!!! BETTER PUMP OPTION !!! Watch for updated information, before you get a pump. • DIY Ultimate Cold Plun...
🛒 Ozone Generator amzn.to/3D2TtNI
!!! NEVER RUN THE OZONE GENERATOR INDOORS FOR EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME BECAUSE YOU CAN BUILD UP UNSAFE LEVELS!!! I used to only run the ozone for 10 minutes after each use, and a couple more times during the day and night for 5 minutes. Now I recommend using a UV Clarifier instead of an Ozone Generator. It's safer and cheaper. See video • Ozone vs UV Clarifier ...
🛒 3-Prong Plug (to adapt Ozone Generator Power Cord for a standard Receptacle) amzn.to/3TUqVfR
• Plug Wiring: Black (hot wire) to the smaller flat blade, White (neutral wire) to the wider flat blade, Green (ground wire) to the round pin. photos.app.goo.gl/vfer9SgFnrB...
🛒 Venturi - Ozone Injector amzn.to/3D6j603
🛒 3/4" Tubing. (I originally used 5/8" ID tubing and stretch the opening to fit tightly, but 3/4" ID will be easier to use) amzn.to/3R7DV3l
🛒 Reducers www.menards.com/main/plumbing...
🛒 Timers. (I changed these to programmable Smart Plugs and a Smart Wall Switch.)
• Smart Plug amzn.to/3N34frM
• Smart Wall Switch amzn.to/3D45H8F
🛒 Cable Tie Mounts amzn.to/3grk8Mj
🛒 Digital Thermometer amzn.to/3zbSc5K
🛒 Aquarium Net amzn.to/3TyHzBY
🛒 Sump Pump Hose to siphon/drain the cold plunge amzn.to/3zrgTv4
// BLUE COLOR CHIP OPTION
Some people think the Grey Color Chips look like mold so I recently added another layer of Pond Shield Paint and tried "Blue" Color Chips in a denser pattern. Here's how it looks: • Tips for Paint & Color...
// MY MAINTENANCE ROUTINE - When water needs to be changed
1. Drain it.
2. Give it a quick wipe, if needed.
3. Change the pump filter, if needed.
4. I like to pour a little peroxide in the pump.
5. Fill it back up with clean water.
Then maybe a couple time a year, run hot water with a little bleach through the system for total sanitization.
!!! BE SAFE: ALWAYS ENSURE THAT THE FREEZER HAS NO POWER (IS UNPLUGGED) WHEN YOU ARE USING THE COLD PLUNGE - AND REMOVE THE FREEZER DOOR LOCK !!!
// WANT TO HELP SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL?
☕ Please, buy me a coffee www.buymeacoffee.com/HandsOnM...
#HandsOnMeditation
________________________
I hope this inspires you to create a Cold Plunge for your home.
Warm Regards,
Peter
Voice-over: Peter Deuschle
© 2021 Vivid Prana LLC. All rights reserved. | HandsOnMeditation.com - Jak na to + styl
This is the best most concise video I have seen. You hit all the targets including keeping it clean. So many kooky videos out there one guy spoke about the decor of the freezer for 2 min??? He wrapped it with car wrap.
Thank you for this
Dig this vid and your channel 👍⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Glad you enjoyed it! Please share the video with others and subscribe to the Hands-On Meditation Channel. I will be adding more content soon. You may also enjoy the meditations on this channel.
lol bro I saw that same video what a waste of time, thank you for this @handson
Thanks. Please share with friends. More good videos to come.
Am I the only one who thought the color chips he added to the freezer was mold at the beginning of the video? 😂
I've heard that many times. If you look at the other videos on this channel, you'll see that I changed the color chips to blue. I think you'll like it better now.
lol totally
or, dead bugs.
@katjongeward7155 have you seen the other videos on this channel where I change the color blue?
great video with very concise info and no useless chat - plus pics of equipment procured
Thanks for the feedback. I'll be posting updates soon. Have you watched my other cold plunge videos?
I appreciate how little to no time you waste. Thank you for your straight forward, extremely informative, well spoken complete guide to DIY cold plunge. Some really great tips and suggestions. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for the feedback! It means a lot. Please share with others.
I’ve had my freezer plunge setup since 2020 and have watched just about every video in this subject. This was so informative and concise. Just wanted to say that for taking the time to put all this on here with the different products. If you ever wanted or need to switch out the timer I’d suggest the InkbirdSmart thermostat timer. I set it at whatever temp and it keeps it there perfectly. Beautiful setup
You're welcome. Thank you for the feedback. Please share with friends and subscribe. Have you tried any of my other Cold Plunge videos on the Hands-On Meditation Channel?
thanks for the thermostat hook up!
My dude!!!! I've been using a cheap inflated thing up to now and it was OK because it was winter. Sticker shock chased me off a commercial unit but this idea hits the spot. Thanks so much
Make sure to watch my other videos on this channel where I go into more detail and cover some of the various things I’ve tried with the cold plunge freezer.
Very nice, short, sweet, and complete !!
Thank you for the feedback. It means a lot. Please subscribe and share with friends. Have you tried any of the meditation exercises on this channel?
Amazing! Thank you!
This is the best DIY overview I've seen and doesn't skimp on the details how to keep the water clean. Thanks so much!
Thanks for the feedback. Please share with others and subscribe. Have you watched any of the other cold plunge videos on this channel?
Amaaaaazing!
Thank you for this straight to the point video 👍🏻
You're welcome. Please share with friends.
brilliant engineering!!!
Thank you. Please share with friends. Have you watched my other Cold Plunge videos or tried any of the meditations?
Great video thank you so much!
Thanks. Please subscribe and share with others. You might also enjoy the meditations on this channel.
This is amazing!
Thank you for the feedback. Let me know if you create your own cold plunge version. Please subscribe and share the channel with others. You may also enjoy the meditations on this channel.
Well done!
Thank you for the feedback. Please share the video with others and subscribe to the Hands-On Meditation Channel. I'll be posting more cold plunge videos soon.
That was great! Thanks!🔥🔥
Glad you liked it! Have you watched the other ones on this channel?
Very nice setup
Thanks! Please share the video with others and subscribe to the Hands-On Meditation Channel. I will be adding more content soon. You may also enjoy the meditations on this channel.
Thank you sir.
Thanks. Please subscribe and tell others.
Great video!
Thanks. Have you checked out the other Cold Plunge videos on this channel?
Sick set up bro
Thanks! Please share with others and subscribe. I'll be adding more cold plunge videos soon.
Nice setup
Thanks for the feedback. Please share with others.
Sweet Action
Thanks for the feedback. Please subscribe and share with others.
Thank you
Thanks for the feedback! I appreciate it. Please share with others and subscribe to this channel. You may also enjoy the meditations on this channel.
Looks great, I'm going to be having mine outside so will clad with wood on all sides .. thanks for the tips on the filters etc .. I'm currently using a Lumin pod (£80) outside as it's winter in the UK so no need for ice ! .. looking forward to having my freezer one though so I can moderate and keep the temp the same and the water clean !
Please share a picture when you've got it set up. I'm going to experiment with a UV Light Clarifier next. I'll have the video posted soon. Please check out my other videos and share with friends.
Thanks!
You're welcome. Please subscribe to the channel and share with others. I'll be adding more cold plunge videos.
Cool set up. I’ve had mine running for about three years. This year I started noticing rust, so I pulled all of the old silicone caulk out (nightmare) and used JB water weld and used the epoxy you mentioned in this video. After a few days of use now, it seems like a good move to use epoxy and JB water weld…Time will tell. I’ve never used filtration or anything extra. Just always drain it after a week or two and fill it back up. Your set up looks way less insane than others ive seen. I might add these to my system. Thanks for the video. You wouldn’t happen to have made one with details on how you put those together, would you?
Congrats on your long use of cold therapy. I would imagine you've gained some nice health benefits.
I know of other people who use JB Water Weld. Seems a little more work and more expensive but might be worth it.
If you check out my DIY Ultimate Cold Plunge II video (just put it up) you'll learn another way to run plumbing through the floor. I just have an illustration to show how everything fits together. In general, you'll have to stretch the vinyl tubing over the connections and secure with hose clamps. You can dip the hose tip in hot water to soften it up and it will stretch easier. You may need to adjust the connections depending on what is available at hardware stores and could use different methods.
@@HandsOnMeditation awesome, I’ll check it out. JB water weld was way more expensive than I expected. I had to use 8 tubes and I used silicone for the top portion of the freezer. Thanks for the reply!
Turn on the cold and turn on the life!
Yes! Please share with friends.
Thanks for the video! I'm setting one up right now, and following your materials list. One question for you: I see the tubing you linked is 5/8" ID, but the reducer/venturi injector accept 3/4" ID. Is the 5/8" tube ok, with just a tighter fit?
You can stretch the tubing to fit. Put tip in hot water for a little while first if needed to soften the tubing. Let me know how it goes and please share with others. Also subscribe. I'll have a follow up video to talk about more modifications I've played with.
How about an aquarium uv sterilization light for inside of it?
Brilliant video with ideas overlooked by many others. Which paint did you use for the lid? Looks really good
The outside paint is Puttsburgh Revitalize. It's a heavily textured paint for decks and outside applications but I thought it would be interesting to try because it gives it a stucco look.
Please share with others and subscribe.
@@HandsOnMeditation I already did both. Thank you for the reply .. proving tricky to source in the UK .. but eBay should come through :)
Great video! Couple of things.
1. I've seen other videos of guys turning chest freezers into a "Keezer". For use as a beer tap for home brew. Anyway, they install a collar around the rim of the freezer and then relocate the hinges to be mounted on the wood collar. The nice thing about the collar is you can make it whatever size you want but becomes a great place to run 'through' lines and a place to mount things on the inside or outside.
2. Any thought about whether installing one inside of a sauna? Would it be insulated enough to withstand the heat from a sauna? My thought was to wrap it in cedar just like the inside of the sauna. Make it blend in and also make it a bench.
My motivation is I am already planning to build a sauna and have recently been hearing more and more about the benefits of cold plunge. I've also heard that going from cold to hot is good also.
Looking for feedback on this idea.
Adding a cedar wrap would be great. You could add all kinds of accessories - like a Keezer. I run my plumbing lines through the floor of my freezer now and it's a much better setup. You can see it in my other videos on this channel. (I even reference Keezers in one). It's also good to learn about the plumbing in case you install a kegerator in the future. I also have a really nice one I built in our house photos.app.goo.gl/b2FDCQvefSjhA8en7. Live a healthy life and be sure to smell the roses or enjoy a nice pint.
You'll want the suana separate. The more open room you have to spread out and stretch the better. I wish I had more space in my sauna. And yes, going between hot and cold is great but it's best to end on cold.
@@HandsOnMeditation Totally agree, having it in the sauna would solve a couple of issues for me. I agree with you, the more space the better. I'm planning to build the sauna on the deck next to our swim spa. So I'm trying to make it as multifunctional as possible. I thought if I clad the freezer in cedar sides and top, that maybe I could make the freezer a part of a bench to lay on. Haven't drawn it up yet. Also, the sauna will have wood burning heater. Thank you for taking time to chat with me about it. I'm excited at the prospect of this.
I’m super excited to get this set up! I’m having trouble locating adapters/fittings to get the 1” pool filter tubes to connect to the 3/4” tubes for the Venturi filter. Any idea where I could find these?
I found adapters at Menards for many sizes.
Hi thank you for such a detailed video! I’m attempting to build one identical to yours minus the extra cosmetics. Just curious if it’s required to have the exact ozone generator you have to still accomplish connecting the hoses together. God bless you!
You don't have to use the exact ozone generator. There are many options out there.
Is that a 2 person sauna? Roughly what is the footprint of your room setup?
Do you have any videos of you doing your entire setup?
Great video!
It's a 2 person sauna - Maxxus Seattle (although it would be a little close with 2 people). I'm 6 foot tall and if I sit on the bench sideways I can't quite extend my legs fully. The footprint for Sauna and Cold Plunge (with decking between) is approximately 4' wide by 9'4" long.
It would have been hard to video the whole setup because I made multiple changes as I went along and figured out what I liked and didn't like.
I have made more modifications to the cold plunge since this video and will post a new video showing how to run the water lines through the freezer bottom soon.
Good luck with your setup.
If you add everything that was said, it's about $400 extra parts on top of finding a deal for the Freezer. Nowadays will be around $500+ for a freezer. So we are nearing the $1000 mark for this nice-looking cold plunge. Still cheaper than anything you can buy though.
Question: what happens if the floor collapses and the water reaches the circuit of the fridge or some charged condenser? I thought about doing something like this but it seems a bit risky
Hi. How did you modify the ozone device? all it needs is to install a plug? do you need a transformer to make it work and to make sure it does not burn out?
Hi- great vid. Quick question. Did you glue the zip tide holders?
Yes, I used super glue. I later changed the plumbing to come up through the floor and it's a better set up. Check out my newest video on the channel to see how.
love all your coldplunge videos. I still have a question:
how did you manage go get the filterpump running. i have a simular setup but my pump doesent prime well.
It's a bit of a challenge when you run the hoses over the top of the cold plunge. You have to get the air pockets out of the input hose or the pump won't have enough suction. If you raise the pump up to water level and fill it until the hoses are full, then screw on the top, quickly lower it and turn it on, that usually works. You can then bleed out the extra air with the bleed valve on top of the pump. Or you can take the hose that's connected to your sink (or whatever you use to fill the plunge) and blow water into the pump input hose while starting it up. I changed my setup so now my hoses come in through the bottom of the freezer and it works much better. I show how in my other cold plunge videos.
Thanks for taking the time to explain the whole process. one question, you put the marine sealant on first and then the pond shield. Are you happy with this. I just called Pond Shield and they said to go pond shield first and then the sealant because you are supposed put soft on hard. The marine sealant is kind of a soft squishy flexible silicon-like substance right? but at that point, is there any point to the sealant? is pond shield enough?
I added the sealant first and then the pond shield. You may not need both of them. I wasn't planning to add the pond shield at first. I came up with that idea later and thought it would be interesting to try out. This has basically been a big experiment. I'm not an expert so I can't guarantee anything but mine has been working pretty well.
Please let me know what you decide to do and how it goes. I may build another version at a later date and try some other things.
If u do pond shield you should not need additional sealer
I concur great video--I've ordered everything and have begun sealing the freezer. One question regarding option 1 and option 2 for the set-up: my drain opening is a 1/2"--it would likely be too much to go from a 1/2" to 3/4" to 1.25" right? So I should probably seal it and go with option 1, I think? Thanks so much!
You'll want to enlarge the drain hole if you go through the bottom. It's easy to cut through. Just a couple layers of thin steel with a bunch of rigid foam between. I used a forstner bit. You will have to lift the freezer up a little though so there is room to run tubing under it. I build a simple wooden frame but bricks would also work. I'm going to add a second hole so I can also have incoming line enter through the floor. When I do that, I'll put up a video showing how it works. I'm trying to throw out a bunch of ideas so people can create their own unique versions.
@@HandsOnMeditation Thanks so much for the response and guidance! I'll look into making this cut and see how challenging it looks for me. Would be nice to have it go through the bottom though.
Did you remove the shelving brackets from the inside? If so, did you just fill those holes with some of the epoxy? Great video, thanks!
There were no permanent shelving brackets in my freezer, however the Sikaflex sealant would have been fine to fill the holes.
Hello! thanks for the video
I have all set up, but the pump has barely not strength at all, and won't suck the water in...
It's a little bit of a challenge because you're trying to suck the water up hill at first. If you lift the pump up to the water level, allow water to overflow the pump a bit, you'll get most of the air out. Then put the cap on the pump and you can set it on the floor. After I made the video I ended up expanding the drain at the bottom of the freezer. Then I connected the input line to the drain. That works a lot better. There's information in the video description. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006ZCFFM
Hey thanks for the video. I see the part 2 video is now marked private. I just ordered my freezer and would like to see how you have the setup running through the bottom. Would you mind re-sharing the part 2 video?
I'm adding some information to the video and hope to have the updated version posted tonight.
@@HandsOnMeditation thank you very much. Looking forward to it!
The new video is back up.
What is the size of the check valve and do you have a link to it like the rest of the products? This is very helpful btw. Thank you!
The check valve came with the ozone generator. It is sized to fit the ozone generator tubing. Check the video description for links to all the products. Also, check out the next video DIY Ultimate Cold Plunge II on this channel. It shows how to run the ozone through the floor for an even better setup. Please share with others and subscribe. Best of luck with your project.
Great video. quick question. What temperature is the freezer set at when it does run?
I keep the freezer set on the lowest setting and run it for a few hours at night. Usually, it takes about an hour to lower the water 1 degree. I like to keep the water around 50 degrees.
Great job! I was wondering what type of textured paint you applied to the exterior? Thanks
I used Pittsburgh Revitalize paint, from Menards. It's made to restore outdoor wood or concrete so it's really thick and textured. Home Depot also has a version and there are probably others. It's not really for metal but will work and gives it a stucco look.
@@HandsOnMeditation Awesome! Thank you.
Crazy how much more expensive things already are a year later. That pump is up $20
Cool setup. How often do you have to change the water with that type of filter and ozone
If it's just being used daily by one person, I can usually go a few weeks without changing the water. If multiple people are using it or if people are using it after a workout (all sweaty) then maybe a week. I show my cleaning routine in the other videos on this channel.
👍👍 Question any condensation on the water lines outside of the tub?
I don't notice condensation on my lines but my cold plunge is indoors (in a basement). It may be different outside.
Does anyone have any recommendations on ice bath cleaning solutions to keep the water clean and prevent mold?
If you use a UV Clarifier, it will greatly help keep the water clean but you will eventually have to drain the cold plunge and wipe it down. You don't have to use chorine or pool chemicals. Peroxide is safe to use as a disinfectant. Unfortunately mold can grow on really cold surfaces so you'll also have to wipe the seals and top sometimes.
nice setup how much was your sauna
& the whole setup &do you use the sauna and ice bath in the same day
The sauna was a little over $1k and the Cold Plunge around $600. I sometimes use them both together but you should do the sauna first and cold plunge 2nd (It's healthier to end cold). If you go in the sauna after the cold plunge, your skin will warm up but your core temp will start to drop over time and you'll end up feeling colder (it's a really weird afterdrop physiological response). Also, using the cold plunge when you are all sweaty is refreshing but you'll have to change the water more frequently.
You should watch my DIY Ultimate Cold Plunge II on this channel to learn how I adapted the cold plunge to add ozone up through the floor.
Wondering if one can get similar benefits by simply using the freezer without the water and maybe put some type of velcro cover on top to keep? sort of like a really cold room....
Without the water, the side walls of the freezer will get cold enough that you could get frostbite, I assume. With water in it, the cold is dispersed throughout. I only keep mine around 50ﾟso it's not really that cold..
I’m following this to a T and the Intex C1000 does not nor will not suck water up and over the edge of the freezer. I had to buy a water pump to push the water up into the filter.
You have to ensure that the hoses are completely filled with water or the pump will not have enough suction to pull water over the sides. If there are large air pockets, it won't work. You might want to consider running the lines through the bottom of the freezer, it's much easier on the pump. See my other video on this channel.
Hey! Thanks for this video. I just converted a chest freezer to an ice bath, and bought the same pump filter you did. One thing that crossed my mind is that I’d like to use magnesium/salt in my ice bath for added skin benefits but I don’t know if that would work with an above ground pool filler like the one you use. Any thoughts on this? Would love to get both benefits but happy to sacrifice the salt/magnesium in favor of regular cleaning / filtering
I don’t have any experience with the use of salt, but it sounds like a good idea. Please keep me updated about how it’s working for you. Just make sure everything is sealed properly because salt will encourage rust if you have any exposed steel.
@@HandsOnMeditationwill do! It’s all sealed. I’m more worried about ruining the pump filter with the salt, but we’ll see. I might just go for it and see how long the pump lasts.
Do you have any concerns about using the ozone diffuser on your setup, with this setup being in your basement? Won't this lead to ozone accumulating to some degree in your house?
I only ran ozone for shorts periods of time so it wasn't much of a concern, however I now use a UV Clarifier instead so it's not an issue. Please check my other videos for more info.
This video was so helpful thank you! I’m curious, do you not use any chemicals? Google says I still need chemicals with an ozone generator so I’m wondering what you do since it sound like you aren’t using any chemicals? Thank you!
I don't use any pool chemicals. The ozone setup should kill the bacteria but you still will get body oil, skin lotion, hair products, sweat etc. in the water. Eventually the water will start to get cloudy and slimy.
At times, I've had three people actively using the cold plunge and I was changing the water about weekly.
Other times when it's only being used by one person or only being used after showering, I can go several weeks without changing the water.
I did adjust the setup since this video. I added a drain at the bottom and it's pretty easy to swap out the water now:
1. Drain it.
2. Give it a quick wipe, if needed.
3. Change the pump filter, if needed.
4. I like to pour a little peroxide in the pump.
5. Fill it back up with clean water.
Then maybe a couple time a year, run hot water with a little bleach through the system for total sanitization.
You should watch my continued video on yhe channel. DIY Ultimate Cold Plunge II
@@HandsOnMeditation Yes I have, love the new design with the plumbing through the bottom! Thanks for clarifying!
@@HandsOnMeditation this was the information I was looking for. Thanks for such a thorough video.
Have you had any issues with that pond armor and the ozone generator? I’ve heard sometimes the ozone will turn some pond armors black?
My pond shield paint is still bright white. No color changes and it's been a year of use, however I only run the ozone and pump for 10 minutes after each use, then a few more times for 5 minutes during the day and night.
How has the marine sealant held up over time? Any leaks or rust? Considering using this or going the JB Weld route.
Definitely want to use a marine grade version. JB Weld is expensive but I've seen other people using it and seems to do well. Just make sure everything is well sealed and there are no scratches or bare metal. I had some rust on a couple areas where I had missed some metal. The original paint job was pretty weak so I added Pond Shield Paint and that's much better.
@@HandsOnMeditation Crap! I'm new to this, and have a chest freezer at this point, bit it's all metal inside. I wasn't realizing that was an issue until this video. Can I paint over that or something?
You can seal it and paint it with a marine paint or pond shield
I had some rust where the paint was scratched off but not around the sikaflex sealant and not where I painted with pond shield. JB Weld is good but more expensive. You'll need a lot
You plunge and drink beer! 😂 #foreheadSlap
Does the freezer temp control allow you to stay above freezing at around 50 degrees? I was thinking the freezer temp control would not go that high.
There is no temp setting that high. You just run the freezer at night for a few hours or whatever it takes to keep it around that temperature. It'll warm up a little during the day but then you can cool down at night again.
What are the components of the extender? And does the round component on the inlet come with the pool pump?
The extension is just PVC pipe, and the cage on the inlet line comes with the pump. You should watch my other cold plunge videos for more ideas.
@@HandsOnMeditationjust drilled like 5 or 6 holes in a 3/4” PVC pipe?
?
I really liked your video however I have a question, what is the ozone injector do for the water and what are the health benefits?
Ozone is a natural way to kill bacteria and help keep the water clean. You can also use pool or spa chemicals but they can dry out your skin.. If you don't use anything to sanitize the water you'll have to change it almost daily.
@@HandsOnMeditation Thanks! I think you did mention that as the reason and it makes sense. We're looking for a freezer now.
There are other CZcams videos showing people using smaller ozone generators. I was concerned they may not be effective enough so I went with a spa version - which is probably overkill - but it works. I'm also trying to show some options that haven't already been explored with freezer cold plunge setups.
So where should the ozone be located hieght wise. Also I have air that sits in the top portion of the tubes when the system is not running. I assume this is expected. All the water I'm the tubs is at the same level of water level of the tub.
The ozone generator should be mounted higher than the water level to ensure that water cannot back up into it (or you can make a loop with the ozone tubing and mount the top of the loop above the water level.
To get air out of the tubes, you can raise the pump up, remove the top and let the air bubble out of the pump. Then fill the pump back up at the water level, add the top and lower it back down. You'll probably always have a little air in the tubes but the pump will still work.
Thanks for the great video! I'm curious how that Intex Filter Pump holding up? Do you still recommend it?
I change the filter every once in a while but the pump has been going strong. I've modified the cold plunge to have the lines come up through the floor since this video and it's easier to pump now. I had a video up showing how to do that but had to make a couple edits. I'll repost it soon.
@@HandsOnMeditation Lol, was looking for that video to respond to your last comment and saw you made it private for now. Looking fwd to see the edited version. One question - was the bottom of your freezer made from plastic or metal? Thanks!
Bottom is metal. I'm going to add some video about using thermal imaging to see the coolant lines. Works well on mine. You can borrow or buy/return a camera to check.
@@HandsOnMeditation awesome, thank you
@@HandsOnMeditation I got the Intex pump and I'm not sure if I like it. The lines are too long, and I think a lot of cold is escaping in the lines. Any tips for shortening the lines that came with the Intex?
Is it safe to use Ozon in Celar?
It is a closed room about 40m² with one small window
If you watch my other videos, you’ll see that I now use a UV clarifier instead of ozone. It works just as well. There is a link in the video description.
How do you wire the ozone generator to the plug? Which wires go where? Thanks
You cut off the end of the ozone generator cord. The green wire is ground - it connects to the round pin at the bottom. The white wire is neutral - it connects to the left side or the fatter blade. The black wire is the hot wire and it connects to the right blade. photos.app.goo.gl/vfer9SgFnrBkBpyt7
Thank you!!!
Did any one bother to use the “pre-etching primer” as instructed on the Pond Shield? I can’t find it and it says not to use the Rust-O-Leum brand. No clue why. Just didn’t know if that was necessary. Help!
I didn't use it and the pond shield bonds well. It's thick like white glue.
can you tell me the manufacture and model of this freezer. Thanks!
Check the video description for details.
Whirlpool - 14.8 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer - White Model:WZC3115DW
@@HandsOnMeditation thanks
Hi .. one more question to do with your Ozone.. how do you get it to power. I have purchased something similar and I can not find what sits between it and plugging into the wall .. thanks
I'm not sure what you mean by "sits between it" but if you are talking about the connection, I had to wire a standard AC plug to the ozone generator power cord. www.menards.com/main/electrical/light-switches-dimmers-outlets/plugs/legrand-reg-pass-seymour-reg-15-amp-125-volt-black-plug/sa399bkcc10/p-1444451204888-c-9525.htm?tid=6309172895486637383&ipos=28
@@HandsOnMeditation Thanks .. My question was not well worded. I thought I would have to have some sort of adapter / regulator to plug the odd little plug from the Ionizer unit into .. not sure why they could not just sell it with a regular plug attached... thanks again.
@@christianmarriott2983 The ozone generator plug is made to connect to a hot tub spa so you have to cut off the plug and add a normal one.
How has the silicone held up over the past couple of years?
I’ve been conflicted between using a marine grade silicone vs JB Water Weld. I just don’t love the look of the chuncky lines of the JB product. I much prefer the clean lines of silicone.
I used a marine base sealant instead of silicone. It’s held up without any problems, but I also have pond shield painted over it. There are links in the video description for both.
Thank you for asking this question and answering…a few of the large build sites and forums make it seem like you are doomed if you don’t use jB with point shield and even say you should not. After reading you need 10 to 20 $6 dollar jB tubes it feels insane that sika flex 291 would not work under pond shield.
How many fl oz of nautical sealant did you use for your bath? Could you send me a PM please, we are going to copy what you did but have never worked with this before
I taped all the seams and it took me less than one tube of the sealant listed in the video description notes.
Why did you run the hose that feeds back into the chest to the other side with a pipe? Was it to get it futher away from the drain hole? Thanks
I wanted to separate the input and output as far as possible to create flow. It's not necessary but I wanted to try it out. Since this video I have put the input and output hoses through the bottom of the cold plunge which works a lot better. I'll have a video up soon that shows how.
Here's m new setup. czcams.com/video/TFwguAs69rY/video.html
@@HandsOnMeditation Wow looks great! You should sell these.
Remember to make sure there is a ground fault, so you don't accidentally electrocute yourself.
You should always cut power to the cold plunge before getting in.
Hello, really appreciate the video! I purchased all the component for this build then realized the smaller piping needs to be 1" not 3/4" like you mentioned. I originally bought 3/4" piping and it was too small. Can you please confirm. Thanks again
Do you mean the vinyl tubing? The size can vary depending on the pump hose. Sometimes the inside diameter is listed and sometimes the outside diameters listed. You may just have to get a different size adapter. Your local hardware store can help you if needed. There are a lot of options.
@@HandsOnMeditation Thanks for the reply. Yes the vinyl tubing. I bought the same swimming pool pump. If you check the suction piece of the pump it is meant for 1" tubing.
I took the original pump hose and used an adapter to take it down to a smaller size of vinyl tubing. The smaller vinyl tubing is easier to fit in between the freezer top door. Are you trying to connect the vinyl tubing directly to the pump?
@@HandsOnMeditation I'm referring to the grey suction piece in 3:05 in your video. I inserted the 3/4" tubing and it was too small. it needed a 1" tubing to fit nicely
Ok. I just have the hose loosely sitting in that grey cage. It's not a tight fit. It's also really not needed. I just put it there to avoid sucking anything large up but it's not like you'll have frogs or kiddie toys in the cold plunge.
Does it make any difference if the inside is aluminum/metal?
If the inside is aluminum, then you naturally have more protection against rust. But you’ll still need to seal all the seams.
So I bought the same pump/ozone and set it up. Having trouble getting the pump to pull water out and push it in. It’s basically just whirring when I turn it on. Any suggestions?
You probably have a big air pocket in the lines. You'll have to lift the pump and lines up to the water level and bleed out the air. I have notes in the video description to help.
Thank you so much I’ll give it a try!
Ok so I got the pump working in sync with the ozone your advice was clutch. Now as soon as I turn the system off the remaining water in the lines leaks out of the ozone and everywhere. Any ideas??
I’m sorry I’m such a noob how did you modify the ozone to a 3 prong plug?
Check the video description. I have a link in the products that shows how.
Whats the brand and model number of your chest freezer? I want to drill holes on the bottom like you and I don't have a thermal camera to find out
I belive mine is Whirlpool - 14.8 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer - White Model:WZC3115DW
You can borrow an infrared camera or try one and return it.
How do u maintain the water temperature?
I run the freezer for a few hours at night. It is set on a timer. The exact temperature is not crucial. Just keep it in a range that works for you. I keep ours around 50 degrees. Once you drop down into the 40s, it really is much harder to do.
Is there not some concerns over ozone safety
I only run my ozone generator for 10 minutes after each use, and then a few more times for 5 minutes during the day. You can also use UV light instead, if you wish. Or you can use pool chemicals to keep the water clean, but those have their own risks. Do some research online and use what works best for you.
I followed this very closely to build mine. However after the pond shield the freezer doesn’t seem to be cooling anymore. Any thoughts?
The pond shield coating is pretty thin and didn't affect the temperature of my freezer. The walls still get very cold and frost up. What temperature are you trying to reach? I keep mine around 50 degrees. You don't really need to get colder than that.
@@HandsOnMeditation i just watched a couple other videos and people mentioned that the initial cool down takes a long time, so maybe that’s what I’m experiencing. I have mine out on the back deck of my house here in FL. I filled it with water for the first time lastnight around 10:00pm. The water was initially around 87 degrees. This morning around 7:00am it was only down to 85 degrees. I was hoping to reach 40 degrees or so.
On another video I saw the guy said his water was 80 degrees and after 2 days his only dropped to 60 degrees. He said he then added a bunch of ice to help get it down and now his maintains 33-34 degrees.
I hope that’s all it is. I’ll grab 80lbs or so of ice on my way home tonight and hopefully that will give it the push I need.
That's really warm water to start with. It will definitely take a while to cool down. (Our tap water isn't nearly that warm.) Once you get it nice and cold, it's easier to lower the temp. I doubt you'll want it all the way down to 40 degrees (that's painfully cold). You'll see ice floating in cold plunge videos but the overall water temp isn't that cold.
By the way, keep the freezer upright when working on it. I was told that laying a new freezer on it's side can cause issues with the freon.
@@HandsOnMeditation how long did you initial cool down take?
I don't remember but I was starting with water that was probably around 65 degrees. I'm sure it ran all night at least.
Usually I start the day with the cold plunge around 50 degrees. If my wife and I both use it, the temperature will probably rise around 5 degrees during the day. I have smart timers that turn the freezer on for an hour after each use during the day and then I run it for 3 hours at night. So, it seems to take about an hour to cool down for each degree (some days more or less).
Bought the Intex 1000gph pump but have the inlet / outlet draped over the side. It’s not working? What can I do?
You probably have air pockets in the lines and the pump can’t get suction. You need to raise the pump and the lines up and get all of the air out then lower the pump back down and it should work. It’s kind of challenging to suck the water over the sides of the cold plunge. My current set up draws water through the bottom and that works a lot better. You can also put an aquarium pump inside the cold plunge, but I didn’t want to do that.
Your content is awesome! I've watched your cold plunge videos multiple times. Finally figured out the Intex pump last night - the tubes were filled with air. Didn't want to drill holes in the freezer in case we use it as a freezer later. Instead, I filled the pump with water from a pitcher to push the air out, and it worked! Got the ozone generator you recommended, just need the reducers now. The inside of my freezer seems to be made of aluminum or some type of metal. Will the pond shield work, and if yes, what's the best way to apply it? Thanks!
Pond Shield is very sticky and should work well. You have to mix 2 cans together (like epoxy glue) so read the directions carefully. I used a paint brush. It's thick like Elmer's Glue. Start at the top, it will run down and you'll have a pool at the bottom to spread out when done. Also, practice with some scrap wood first.
How often do you need to swap out the water with the ozone setup?
It really depends on how often you use it and how clean you are when using it. The ozone setup will help kill bacteria but you still will get body oil, skin lotion, hair products, sweat etc. in the water and it will eventually get cloudy and slimy.
At times, I've had three people actively using the cold plunge and I was changing the water about weekly.
Other times when it's only being used by one person or only being used after showering, I can go several weeks without changing the water.
I did adjust the setup since this video. I added a drain at the bottom and it's pretty easy to swap out the water now:
1. Drain it.
2. Give it a quick wipe, if needed.
3. Change the pump filter, if needed.
4. I like to pour a little peroxide in the pump.
5. Fill it back up with clean water.
Then maybe a couple time a year, run hot water with a little bleach through the system for total sanitization.
Can you give us a little help on the new floor drain you added? Mine has a floor drain itself built into the freezer. Mine will be located in the garage (with a drain itself). So I can pop open that drain, and even if it takes an hour or more, no big deal. Assuming my factory installed floor drain will suffice if I don’t mind a long way to drain it.
Do you have any sense of the monthly electricity costs?
My freezer only runs a few hours at night so I can't imagine it's much. I don't run it all during the day.
Why use ozone generator or chemicals if you can use just a regular UV lamp?
I'm currently experimenting with a UV Clarifier and it is working well. I'll have a video up soon to show my results.
I don’t see the update video with the plumbing from the bottom anymore?
I am adding some info to the video and will repost if soon.
@@HandsOnMeditation Thanks. I’m getting ready to build mine and your videos have been very helpful.
I installed the same set up as you, just curious as to how you got the water flowing once you filled the freezer? I keep getting air lock on the pump. Thanks!
It's a little bit of a challenge because you're trying to suck the water up hill at first. If you lift the pump up to the water level, allow water to overflow the pump a bit, you'll get most of the air out. Then put the cap on the pump and you can set it on the floor. After I made the video I ended up expanding the drain at the bottom of the freezer. Then I connected the input line to the drain. That works a lot better. There's information in the video description. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006ZCFFM
Here's an alternative setup drive.google.com/file/d/1Zg_fTcDL3HSyiBbcRHlCFC1MoX1RTqA5/view?usp=sharing
@@HandsOnMeditation Thanks for the quick response and info. Much appreciated.
Loving the set up! Couple more questions, how often do you change the tub water and do you add any chemical to the water?
The frequency I change the water depends on how many people are using it and how clean they are. If I use the cold plunge after showering - or when I'm pretty clean - I can go a few weeks without changing the water. If multiple people are using the cold plunge - or if I'm jumping in after working out and all sweaty - I might need to change it after a week. I believe the bacteria is controlled with the ozone but body oils, lotion, hair products and dirt begin to build up. The water will get cloudy and a little slimy over time.
I try not to avoid chemicals. When I change the water, I usually give the walls a quick wipe, swap out the pump filter (you can wash the filters or buy extra) and pour a little peroxide in the pump. Then after about 6 months, I give the freezer a good wipe down with hot water and a little bleach, let it run through the pump for a while, then drain the freezer and fill it with clean water.
By the way: I just changed my plumbing and ozone to enter through the bottom of the freezer. I hope to have a video up that shows how to do it some time this week.
I made a chest freezer cold plunge and used Sikaflex-291 to seal the edges and I noticed every time i do the cold plunge, for half the day i have this weird toxic taste in my throat. I did cold showers all the time and this never happened. Do you think Sikaflex-291 is toxic and causing this or what could it be?
I'm not sure what you are experiencing. You're the first person to report that. You can always cover the Sikaflex with Pond Shield paint. That what I did. Or if you are dunking your head in the cold plunge, try it without putting your head in the water and see if it makes a difference.
@@HandsOnMeditation sounds good thanks! also do you know how long the cure time is on sikaflex-291? I think i left it for about 36 hours before filling it with water so maybe that's why?
It takes a long time to dry. I think it will still cure in water but I don't know if it will cure at very cold temps. You may have to drain or turn off the freezer for a while if it hasn't cured all the way. You can contact Sikaflex and ask.
So I emptied it and let it sit for a week, added a marineland water filter, and now the problem is gone!🥳
When you ran this setup, how did you make the pump work? I have mine the same setup however the pump is not able to pull water in, it only goes about half way of the tube that is on the side wall of the freezer.
You probably have a large air pocket in your tubing. To bleed air pockets out - Raise pump up to water level. Remove top and allow air to bubble out. Then fill the pump with water, add top and lower it back down to the floor.
@@HandsOnMeditation The pump is currently positioned above the water level behind the freezer, could it still work? Please elaborate a bit more, I'm struggling to get the system to work. Thanks again.
If you have the pump positioned above the water level, then the water will drain out of it. You have to keep the pump on the ground.
You also have to ensure the water lines are completely full (no air pockets). The pump is having to suck the water up over the sides of the cold plunge in your setup. If you have large air pockets in the lines, the pump won't get any suction. So, you have to get the air out and fill the lines with water.
1. Temporarily lift the pump up to the height of the water level and fill it up. Water should stay in the pump and level out at the same height as in the cold plunge.
2. Shake the lines and get any air bubbles to rise up and bubble out of the pump.
3. Then, screw the top on the pump, lower it down to the ground and turn it on. (There should be enough water in the hoses to get suction going). You may have to periodically, open the bleed valve (on top of the pump) and let any additional air bubble out.
If you just can't get it working, you could return the pool pump and get a large aquarium pump instead (but it will need to sit inside the cold plunge - so ensure it's unplugged when you use the cold plunge to be safe).
I got it. How did I expect the pump to work above the water level. Thank you so much and sorry for any inconvenience.
Do you use ice still or do you use a chiller?
The freezer keeps the water cold enough. After filling with fresh water, it has to run for most of the day or night to get the water down to 50 degrees (that's a good temp). During the day the water temp will rise a few degrees or more depending on how many times it is used. I use a timer to run the freezer at night for a few hours or so to get the water back down to temp.
With the ozone generator how oftern are you changing the water?
It works best with ozone through the bottom of the freezer (see my other video).
I don't use pool chemicals. The ozone setup will help kill bacteria but you still will get body oil, skin lotion, hair products, sweat etc. in the water and it will eventually get cloudy and slimy.
At times, I've had three people actively using the cold plunge and I was changing the water about weekly.
Other times when it's only being used by one person or only being used after showering, I can go several weeks without changing the water.
My Cleaning Routine:
1. Drain it.
2. Give it a quick wipe, if needed.
3. Change the pump filter, if needed.
4. I like to pour a little peroxide in the pump.
5. Fill it back up with clean water.
Then maybe a couple time a year, run hot water with a little bleach through the system for total sanitization.
@@HandsOnMeditation Wow thank you for this!
Please let me know how it goes and share the channel with others
how much all in? I am looking at DIY options or just purchasing the cold plunge.
You can find scratched/dented freezer around $400. Pump, ozone and other options $200-$300. Depends on current market prices. I have links to products in video description so you can check.
@@HandsOnMeditation thanks. How cold can you get the water?
If you ran the freezer long enough you'd have solid ice. I recommend keeping the water around 50 degrees. That's pretty cold. Once you drop into the 40s it's much tougher to endure. I usually run the freezer a few hours at night to keep that temp.
Hey there, did you sand and prime the inside before applying the pond shield? Thank you
I just gave a light sanding. Start at top of walls with the pond shield. It will run down to bottom. Its like painting with white glue.
@@HandsOnMeditation got it. Thanks. You did the caulking first before you painted right? I already did the caulking but now realize it needs to be sanded before I paint. Just wondering if the paint will stick to the caulking...
Wasn't an issue for me. Its really sticky paint.
@@HandsOnMeditation awesome, thank you 😊
You might want to practice with a little bit of the pond shield mix at 1st. You probably can't tell in the video but my finish does have some drips and bumps. Its definitely not perfect. But no big deal.
Will this get down in the 30°’s?
You don't want it that cold. When you see people with ice in the water, the actual water temperature is warmer than the 30s. Around 50 degrees is a good temperature. It's much colder than you think.
I bought the same ozone generator and set it up the same way you did using an injector but when i turn the generator on there's no bubbles? I've popped the 1/4 hose out from the generator and blew threw it while conjnector to the injector and i can see the air running into the injector and into the 3/4 tubing. plug it back into the generator and nothing...blue uv light is glowing out the air hole im at a loss?
Are you running the pump? The ozone generator doesn't have any power to push the ozone out. It just converts oxygen to ozone. When you run the pump - water flows through the tubing and creates suction to pull ozone out of the ozone generator. You also have to make sure the venturi injector is facing the right direction and you have a check valve to ensure that the suction remains constant.
@@HandsOnMeditation yup injector is on the line that pumps water back into the freezer and flow aarow points in direction of water to freezer. Check valve is in place in the 1/4 line and facing the right direction. I tried unplugging the line from the generator and blowing air into it which sure enough I see the bubbles pump into the water line nd into the freezer. The pump I have is smaller then yours shown in the video do you think it's possible it's not creating enough pressure?
@@HandsOnMeditation I think I may, have just fixed it lol bought a hook to hold up the water line just a bit to make the Injector rest a, little bit more horizontally and now I've got a steady bubble stream! Though that bubble stream, is there weather thr ozone generator is turned on or off is it supposed to be that way?
The bubbles will occur whether the ozone generator is turned on or off because because air is still being pulled through the tube. If the ozone generator is turned on, the air contains ozone. If the ozone generator is turned off, it will just be normal air bubbles.
@@HandsOnMeditation perfect then it looks like we're all good haha tha ks for the help and the tutorial video!
How much pond shield did you use? 48oz or 1.5 gallon? How much you think I need for 8.7 cu ft chest freezer? Thanks!
My freezer is 14.8 cu ft. I used two of kits of 1.5 quart. (Had a little left over)
@@HandsOnMeditation oh shoot, hm i'm not good at math, how much you think 8.7 cu ft would need if you had to guess? thanks again! much appreciated!
Maybe one kit of 1.5 quart
@@HandsOnMeditation ok thank goodness, price is reasonable then thanks again! 😊
You don't have to use the pond shield paint if you seal all the seams well with nautical sealant. I just did it as an additional layer of protection and as a design element.
What about the ozone odor, it's known to be harmful? Could you give me your experience with the odor
If you do a little research you'll see that ozone generators are safely used with many spas. I keep mine on a timer and run it for 5 minutes a few times during the day and night, then10 minutes after each use. I wouldn't lock myself in a sealed room with an ozone generator running all day long but it shouldn't be a problem with your cold plunge.
You could use pool chemicals instead to kill bacteria but I think ozone is a much safer and healthier alternative.
@@HandsOnMeditation
What would be the ideal ozone concentration of water for a cold plunge?
Currently mine is at .02mg per liter
I believe ozone dissipates quickly in the water so the concentration varies. I run the ozone generator for 5 minutes a few times during the day and night, then10 minutes after each use. That's all.
@@HandsOnMeditation They maybe safe with outdoor spas but I've read ozone generators should only be used outside in a well ventilated area. Even with the limited time you're running it it might be polluting your air
isnt ozone poisonous?
Ozone generators are used in spas because the ozone is absorbed in the water, however I now recommend using a UV Clarifier instead. czcams.com/video/WL36eFvP2Lg/video.html
How many gallons of water is in it?
It's a 14.8 cu. ft. freezer but it's only partially full so probably close to 100 gallons.
@@HandsOnMeditation thanks!