Built-In Chillers in Cold Plunge Tubs: Pros, Cons & Best Models

If you’re ready to invest in a cold plunge and weighing your options, you’ve likely come across tubs with built-in chillers. These self-cooling units promise precise temperature control and convenience—but are they worth the extra cost? In this guide, we break down the pros and cons, performance differences, and who should (or shouldn't) choose a cold plunge with a built-in chiller.

Explore our full range of Cold Plunges and see if one of our premium chiller-equipped tubs fits your lifestyle and recovery goals.

What Is a Built-In Chiller?

A built-in chiller is an integrated refrigeration system that actively cools your cold plunge water to a specific temperature—usually between 37°F and 55°F. Instead of adding ice or connecting to an external unit, these chillers continuously regulate water temperature to your preferred setting, providing an "always ready" cold plunge experience.

Many chillers also include a built-in filtration system for cleaner, safer water. One example is the handcrafted Breathe Degrees Mahogany Cold Plunge Tub, which features both a built-in chiller and a high-efficiency filter system.

Pros and Cons of Built-In Chillers

Pros

• No Ice Needed: Save time and eliminate the hassle of constantly adding ice or water changes.
• Consistent Cold: Maintain a stable, precise temperature for daily use or athlete-level recovery routines.
• All-in-One Design: No external plumbing or add-ons required—just plug in and plunge.
• Filtered Water: Most built-in chillers come with filtration systems to keep your water fresh and clear.

Cons

• Higher Upfront Cost: Expect to pay more than for a non-chilled or ice-cooled tub.
• Ongoing Electricity Use: The chiller must run to keep water at low temps—especially in hot climates.
• More Components to Maintain: Additional parts mean more regular cleaning and potential servicing.

Electricity and Cooling Performance

Chillers work much like mini air conditioners. They use refrigerant, fans, and compressors to cool the water, usually down to the low 40s in 4–6 hours. Most models use between 500–1000 watts, depending on ambient temperatures and water volume. If your plunge is outdoors in a hot climate, expect longer cooling times and more energy consumption.

Many chillers include energy-saving features like timers or smart thermostats that cycle cooling based on usage schedules.

Maintenance Considerations

Cold plunge tubs with chillers require slightly more upkeep than their passive counterparts. Here’s what to expect:

• Clean the filter weekly and replace it monthly (or per the manufacturer’s guidance)
• Check for debris buildup around the chiller intake
• Ensure the unit is plugged into a GFCI-protected outlet
• Schedule occasional servicing to keep the compressor in top condition

All things considered, maintenance is minimal and easy to manage—especially compared to hauling ice bags or draining and refilling the tub every few uses.

Best Cold Plunges with Built-In Chillers

If you’re ready to take the plunge, here’s our top recommendation:

Breathe Degrees Handcrafted Mahogany Cold Plunge Tub

• Built-in chiller and filtration system
• Durable stainless steel interior with a handcrafted mahogany exterior
• Digital temperature control and whisper-quiet operation
• Plug-and-plunge design—no external plumbing required
• Made for athletes, biohackers, and serious wellness users

Need financing? Check out our Financing Options to break your purchase into easy monthly payments.

Who Should Skip the Chiller?

Not everyone needs a built-in chiller. You may want to skip it if you:

• Don’t mind adding ice manually for occasional plunges
• Are on a tight budget and want a more affordable option
• Travel often and want a portable tub (many chiller models are not mobile)

For these users, a passive cold plunge tub with thick insulation may be enough—especially if used in a cold climate or kept in a cooled space.

Final Thoughts

Cold plunge tubs with built-in chillers are a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants convenience, consistent performance, and year-round readiness. While they cost more upfront and use electricity, the time savings, water quality, and enhanced user experience often make them the superior choice—especially for athletes, busy professionals, and wellness enthusiasts.

Explore our collection of Cold Plunges to find the best model for your space and routine. And if you're ready for the ultimate plunge, the Breathe Degrees Cold Plunge is a top-tier option you won't regret.