How to Keep Your Chill Therapy Spa Clean and Safe: A Guide to Cold Water Care
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Cold therapy has taken the wellness world by storm — and for good reason. Portable ice baths, also known as cold plunges, are now a key part of recovery routines for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone seeking the revitalising benefits of cold-water immersion.
From simple tubs filled with ice cubes to advanced models like the Canadian Spa Chill Therapy Spa — featuring an integrated chiller and filtration system — cold plunge technology has evolved rapidly. However, with this growth, a lot of confusing (and sometimes misleading) advice has circulated online about how to clean and maintain your ice bath water.
This guide will help you understand:
- How to keep your cold plunge water clean
- How long you can safely retain water
- How cold plunge water care differs from that of hot tubs or swimming pools
Water Chemistry: Hot Tubs vs. Cold Plunges
As a leading hot tub manufacturer for over 35 years, Canadian Spa Company has extensive experience with water chemistry and maintenance. While some principles apply across both hot tubs and ice baths, there are key differences to keep in mind:
1. Temperature
Hot tubs typically operate between 37°C–40°C, a range where bacteria thrive — but where sanitizing chemicals dissolve efficiently.
Cold plunges, on the other hand, usually run below 15°C, a temperature that naturally slows bacterial growth but also makes it harder for chemicals to dissolve.
2. Usage
Hot tubs often accommodate multiple users for longer sessions, meaning sanitizer levels (like chlorine or bromine) deplete quickly.
A Chill Therapy Spa is usually used by one person for short, focused sessions, so sanitizer demand is much lower.
3. Water Longevity
Hot tubs typically keep the same water for up to four months, requiring ongoing chemical balance.
Some cold plunges, however, are drained and refilled after each use.
If your Chill Therapy Spa includes filtration and chilling, and you intend to retain water for extended periods, you’ll need to follow regular maintenance similar to that of a hot tub.
Keeping Your Chill Therapy Spa Clean
The right cleaning approach depends on your setup — particularly whether your cold plunge includes filtration and chilling or if you prefer to drain after each use.
1. Chill Therapy Spa with Filtration and Chiller
If your spa includes both chilling and filtration systems, your water can be safely retained for up to four months with proper maintenance.
Filtration circulates the water, removes particles, and assists with overall sanitation.
We recommend testing sanitizer and pH levels weekly, just as you would with a hot tub.
2. Ice Baths Without Filtration (Water Retained for Short Periods)
If your plunge lacks filtration or circulation, keeping the water clean becomes more challenging.
Even with light chemical treatment, you should replace the water every 5–7 days to prevent stagnation.
3. Ice Baths Drained After Each Use
If you drain your plunge after each session, simply wipe the surfaces dry to remove any dirt or biofilm buildup.
A quick rinse and clean using a mild spa surface cleaner once a week will keep your unit fresh.
Material Considerations: Metal and Wood Plunges
If your plunge is lined with metal or wood, be cautious with chemical usage.
Some sanitizers and oxidizers can corrode metal or damage natural wood finishes.
Always check your manufacturer’s recommendations before adding chemicals.
Water Treatment Tips for Cold Plunges
Maintaining clean and clear water in your Chill Therapy Spa doesn’t have to be complicated — but cold water does behave differently than hot.
Here are our top tips for optimal results:
1. Pre-Mix Granules
Cold water slows chemical dissolution. To help distribute sanitizers evenly, pre-mix granules in a bucket of lukewarm water before adding them to your plunge.
⚠️ Never mix different chemicals in the same bucket. Always handle with care and follow product guidelines.
2. Avoid Tablets
While bromine or chlorine tablets are popular in hot tubs, they dissolve very slowly — even at 40°C.
In cold water, they may take several days to dissolve fully, making granules the preferred option for ice bath sanitation.
3. Monitor pH and Alkalinity
Keep your pH level between 7.2 and 7.6 for comfortable, skin-friendly water and effective sanitizer performance.
Test weekly and adjust as needed using standard spa balancing products.
Final Thoughts
Your Canadian Spa Chill Therapy Spa is built to deliver long-term performance, health benefits, and ease of maintenance.
By following these simple water care practices, you can ensure that your cold plunge stays fresh, clean, and ready for your next invigorating session — whether it’s part of your morning routine or your post-workout recovery ritual.
For more information on maintaining your spa, explore our Canadian Spa water test app or contact our support team for personalised assistance.