Pump, Chiller & Ozone Best Practices | What needs to go on a Timer? How to run your DIY Cold Plunge

[@michaeladle84]

I agree with what you said,,,,but before this video I was on the fence about chiller on a timer. But your info persuaded me to not do the timer on chiller. Great info on the deadband setting,,,,was not aware of that setting. I like the idea of broadening the deadband setting so it is not cycling on and off a lot. And finally your insulation recommendation is so spot on. I see other people on youtube build plunges with little or no insulation,,,,but invest in 1hp chillers,,,,,,crazy. Also,,,the idea of paying for that $1100 plastic ice barrel that has no insulation in it(from what I can tell),,,,,is absolutely foolish. Anyway great video.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Thanks! Yeah the deadband setting is something most probably aren't aware of - hoping this video can help a good number of folks!

[@clutchbeyers]

@@DIYColdPlunge as a fellow Minnesotan, I am curious how much per month in electrical you see for both summer and winter months to run full time. Awesome content

[@alexm2833]

before insulating, i had to put the chiller on a timer otherwise it would run almost all the time . After insulating there is no point in a timer anymore just like you said, and i can get it to stay in the mid 30's. Insulation is king.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

10000% I'm baffled that people are willing to purchase 1HP & 1-1/2HP units instead of investing in insulation.

[@christopherstrack9238]

So, i JUST tuned into your channel on this past Tuesday. Not sure why it took so long for me to link up to you. It is strange because the items you suggest are the same that i chose... i chose the Danner pump, and the Active Aqua 1hp chiller with an Aquatic 2 Ozone Generator. Main difference is that i went the vinyl tubing route. I started plunging this past winter in the lake near my house on the Dec 30th. Through the ice. Started once a week then moved to twice consistently bumping up the time in the water. Needless to say, i got addicted to it. April the temps started to rise and decided i need to build one. It is bare bones in my shed right now naked tub and lines crazy condensation. Got it operational on Fathers Day. Plan is to get it to the point that i can put it in my basement without the condensation being a problem. Biggest issue right now is that the water gets cloudy after about two weeks. I had spin down filter that i had set up before the pump with a 50 micron screen, this was bad and i needed to pull the screen because it was constantly plugged. (50 microns is about 1/2 of a hair btw). Right now, i have the ozone pump running 24/7, i will put it on a timer soon. I am in the thought stage of getting a different filter and moving it to under the Venturi tube like you suggest, i had a valve to adjust the suction at this point under the Venturi. It is difficult to be at $2800 and tell my wife i need to spend another $50 on a different filter. The cloudiness has me stressed rn bc i dont really want to use bromine or other sanitizers OR keep changing the water. Do you use any additives to keep the water clear or is the filter and ozone it? Sorry for the length.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Glad you found the channel! I use a 20 micron filter in my setups. I don't use anything else for keeping my water clear - just filter and ozone. Is your pump running 24/7?

[@christopherstrack9238]

yes, i’ve got it running 24/7 the filter i have is a 5 or 6 inch spin down screen, maybe it’s just the volume as compared to the 10 inch GE hat you mention

[@yanissmerad8872]

@@DIYColdPlunge Hi, do you use your ozone generator when you use the bath? Or only when you are not in? I am creating a mobile recovery center and look for the better sanitary system i can use with clients in

[@Joshli-Ambohr]

Ambohr SPA-124 Ozone generator ❤👍

[@DIYColdPlunge]

👍

[@HullFamily]

Wow - can't thank you enough. I thought just maybe you might answer the question that I sent in via a comment reply, but a video was much better!! I appreciate the insight and will proceed as per your recommendations.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Thanks! I'm glad this helps

[@alextorres3663]

Just finished mine! it looks so good !!

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I'd love to see it!

[@nauhauslabs]

I switch everything off before plunging. It’s probably irrational as the system is on a GFI plug and all the electrical stuff is outside of the tub so any stray current/circuit will likely not to the tub but to earth/gfi. Any thoughts about improving electrical safety so that I don’t have to power down the system before getting in?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

GFCI is the biggest thing from what I have seen. I'll do some more research here.

[@jessygibbs4132]

so glad i found your channel very helpful!!

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Happy to hear that!

[@PNW_DK]

Sounds good master chief!

[@DIYColdPlunge]

🙏

[@TheTomStroup]

Perfect info. Thank you very much.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Thank you! 🙏 Glad it helps

[@bojangles_bonjangles8000]

I’m in Southern California where our crooked utility companies charge us triple the electricity rate between 5pm - 9pm. I have my refrigerator ‘s, pool pumps on smart timers to not run during that time, along with subconsciously not running AC and trying to conserve electricity during this “peak demand” time. What would be your recommendation for that 5 pm - 9 pm window? Think a smart timer would be ok for the chiller / pump in that instance? Tub will be well insulated and covered. Thanks for the videos!

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Oh man... Yeah in this case you could do some smart timers. I would make sure whatever you go with has an extremely low chance of having just the chiller power on.

[@alfonsogarcia9893]

Great video, you know what is the recommended PPM of ozone dissolved on the water? I guess is not the same run for 1hr than 24… Thanks

[@DIYColdPlunge]

You'll want to run it for ~1-2 hours in most cases, with normal use.

[@janfm8670]

Question: the danner pumps with 1200 gph but your recommended Filter e.g. from Ge gxwh20s only allows 12 gpm or 720 gph. Ever thought of choosing a fitler with less resistance? It must reduce energy usage as well or not? Greetings

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I have not, I havent had any issues with my setup

[@rogermathis8626]

Hey Joe did you see my question below about the pump output ? Really curious for your perspective. Thanks so much!!

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Hey! Yep, just replied. Had a backlog here.

[@austin2503]

Does anyone else unplug everything when plunging? I plug it back in right after. I have chiller and pump plugged into a smart switch and then into a GFCI extension cord. Is there a safer way to have this set up?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

GFCI is the biggest thing from what I have seen. I'll do some more research here.

[@KevinBrown-k4t]

Hey Joe, I’m currently building your guide for the 100 gallon Rubbermaid tank. I was wondering why the water doesnt run through the filter before the pump and chiller. Seems like it would make sense to keep the pump and chiller as clean as possible without debris in the parts. What do you think? Why do you have water flow through the pump and chiller first?? Thanks in advance

[@zacharyrobinson3269]

Because some chiller can’t handle ozone.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I break that down in this video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/iHavlGmug9-Zgq8

[@Lift4Life_Patriot]

My only reservation with running the pump 24/7 is that filters will be burned through much faster than if the pumps on in intervals.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I suppose you'd either have dirt in your filter or in your tank. I recommend monthly filter changes.

[@Lift4Life_Patriot]

@@DIYColdPlunge yes that’s what I’ve been doing. Using a 20 micron whole house. Water stays clear for a Few weeks I also use 12% h202 to keep sanitary and vinegar/baking soda (ph balance)

[@gullpavon8960]

What about when you want to turn off the entire cold plunge to zero out risk of electrocution?

[@rogermathis8626]

Hey Joe have you ever tested the flow of the pump on the system? (Via a water flow meter) I tested the 1200 GPH pump and it came in at around 300 GPH. I tested with multiple flow meters and they all said the same thing. I thought maybe it was the distance of the piping but I got similar results when I attached it directly to the pump without the piping. Thoughts? I’m using the 3600 GPH pump now which is flowing at around 800 GPH in actual flow.

[@rogermathis8626]

Joe, just curious if you saw this comment and if you’ve tested it. Thanks ! @diycoldplunge

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Hey Roger, I've never tested the flow. The system has always performed how I needed it to so I've never felt the need.

[@rogermathis8626]

Interesting. So you don’t think the 300 GPH of actual output is an issue for the chiller? Seems very low relative to the recommended flow from the chillers manual. Thanks

[@DIYColdPlunge]

how complex is your plumbing? every turn, length of pipe and elevation will all impact flow.@@rogermathis8626

[@rogermathis8626]

@@DIYColdPlunge my plumbing set up is very straightforward, with minimal piping. I even tested the flow directly coming out of the pump without any piping and it was still 300 GPH. I also tested multiple Danner 1200 GPH pumps. I’m curious whether you think that flow is too low for the chiller. Thanks Joe! Your resources are amazing.

[@johns.8530]

Awesome videos. So glad I found your page. I do have a question for you. I just bought a grizzly 450 and it has the two drain plugs. One on each side. Would you recommend just using those for the inlet and the outlet?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Thanks! You certainly can if you'd prefer not to drill into it. I personally prefer the inlet to be just under the water line when no one is in the tub.

[@johns.8530]

Yea that makes sense. I just hate drilling into a brand new expensive cooler but I may do it. Thanks.

[@johns.8530]

@@DIYColdPlungeis there an approximate height from the ground to drill the inlet hole?

[@michaelnguyen2571]

Hi joe. Just out of curiosity. Roughly how much do you spend on electricity for running your cold plunge chiller and pump continuously?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Hey! Honestly not enough to notice a change in fluctuation in MN. I polled my FB group a while back and got the same result, except for those that live in CA.

[@frankievalle74]

I bought a penguin chiller after watching your shorts comparing the penguin to the aqua. Do you happen to know how to adjust the dead band setting on the penguin? I can’t seem to find any tutorials on the penguin chiller on KZbin or in a Google search

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Penguin has different controllers depending on models, time manufactured, etc. in my experience. Best to reach out to them.

[@PaulinaBrewer-p6u]

Venturi injector vs bubble diffusion for Ozone. Is one better than the other?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Venturi ensures proper mixing/circulation and cleans up the overall setup without having tubes draping over - so IMO yes, way better 👍

[@trevorrisley5419]

Also, have you run into any issues using that tiny ozone generator to keep water clean? In my head I have to get the JED, but at triple the cost it’d be hard to justify if that little guy would suffice. 🤷🏻

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I wouldn't call it "tiny" - it still kicks out so much ozone that it needs to be on a timer for 30-60 min per day. The main difference in this one and the JED is that the JED has an air pump. They both kick out the same amount of ozone depending on the model. With the ventuir, an air pump isn't needed. This is the same generator "The Plunge" uses on their plunges - diycoldplunge.com/products/ambohr-spa-124-ozone-generator

[@trbizwiz1]

I ordered this ozone after watching some of these videos. The ozone I had before had a pump, and I could smell ozone, but I wouldn’t call the water clean. You could not see the bottom. Then I got this ozone machine, and st first I couldn’t smell any ozone and the water looked no different. I even emailed him. He of course responded. But I figured out my Venturi wasn’t adequate. I got a better Venturi, and plumbed it the way he shows, as a partial bypass for the GE filter. That provides just enough back pressure for the water to flow through the Venturi. It was powerful!! In one day my water went from embarrassing, to crystal clear, with a bunch of floaters. I’m working on my filtration to solve that. I’m using a cold pod portable cold plunge. So my water outlet is the bottom port. I think this may limit some of the floaters getting to my filter. I ordered an aquarium filter to help supplement filtration. But this tiny ozone machine works much better than larger pump style ozone machines. It’s quieter, and probably more durable. My plunge is 116 gallons, if that detail is applicable to you. I did insulate it as well. I made a pretty cool wrap, I call the Koozy wrap.

[@Kirbythediver]

Im keeping it indoors with a controlled 67-70F What are your thoughts on how to prevent condensation?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Insulate the tank, wrap the tubing/pipes as well 👍

[@Kirbythediver]

@@DIYColdPlunge thanks my guy! I'll be contributing to your blog if you'll have me 💪

[@keith3652]

I was curious if you know how to put the pump on a switch so you can turn it off when you get in? Since the pump runs 24/7, it would be running when you get in, and I’d rather not have the water moving while I’m doing a plunge. I keep my water at 45 degrees which is plenty cold and obviously the moving water makes it feel colder, which I don’t think I need. I have a valve that I can turn off to block the water going into the plunge, but I assume that would put stress on the pump. Any other suggestions?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I think you'd just need to cut power to the system. If your pump isnt going you won't want any other components running either.

[@engst41]

Do you have content that shows how you setup electrical, timers, and the use of your outdoor junction box?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I personally have everything on this power strip - amzn.to/3PDisNY and inside this box amzn.to/3PwQWBv

[@davidbeiler]

My pump is in the middle of my water chiller line, can i run my pump without turning on my water chiller?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

If they are separate components, you should be able to 👍

[@JakeRandle-cx4ly]

How do you have all of these components plugged in? As far as using power strip, gfci, and a junction box?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I personally have everything on this power strip - amzn.to/3PDisNY and inside this box amzn.to/3PwQWBv

[@galinswigart]

Could I build the plunge you designed but omit the chiller? I’m planning to put mine inside my garage year round, and I’m assuming I will be able to get by with less ice than if it was outdoors because of it being inside and insulated. I’m planning to use a pump, filter, and ozone generator to minimize the amount of times I need to drain and refill.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

100% I actually have everything set up so you can add/remove components if needed. I run mine all winter without a chiller.

[@CrazyNoc]

I made a chest freezer into an ice bath recently so I don't need the chiller. Is there a filter pump system you'd recommend to keep clean?( i assume chillers already have filters in them) the ozone generator will be a great addition. Thanks!

[@jeffsmith3346]

I done the same thing with the freezer. I used the same filtration and sanitation system he uses. You can find the details on how to build it on this channel.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Yep, you can make a filtration/ozone sanitation system to use in your freezer. I like Danner pumps because they can be used in-line or submersed 👉 diycoldplunge.com/products/danner-950-pump

[@jtcurrytube]

Is ozone build up inside the tub space a concern? Can it result in a harmful environment?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I haven't heard of anyone having issues

[@michaelwright9101]

The chiller timer debate sounds similar to when I ran my AC while living in AZ. My friends would complain that their bills to run AC were crazy high even though they would turn it off while they were at work. I told them it’s cheaper to maintain a temp than to make their AC work really hard to cool down a hot room. I let mine run 24/7 and was paying a fraction of the cost that they were for electricity. This feels very similar.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

100%

[@eliang87]

Will the pump and filter operate okay in below freezing temps?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

The pump will need to run 24/7, I advise pulling the chiller in my video on winterizing your plunge.

[@jakeatkins8463]

Yhanks for the video (and all others you put out). Kinda dumb question but I bought an in line filter I purchased prior to getting a chiller. I recently got a chiller that came with a submersible pump. Is there any issue with running both ? It’s not like the water is making waves or a monsoon will ensure and figure a bit more movement is better in terms of sanitation. Thoughts?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Of course! So you have a pump, chiller and filter?

[@jakeatkins8463]

@@DIYColdPlungepump x2 (one submerged and one in line) , filter (whole house) and chiller (1/4 HP but runs great for me based on outdoor temps, etc)

[@patricias4442]

Can I switch my inflatable jacuzzi to an ice bath with buying a chiller? If so do how would I do that? It's small 100 gallons

[@DIYColdPlunge]

As long as you can hook hoses up to the inlet/outlet you can! then just connect those to a pump and chiller.

[@RichBirdwell]

wondering if there is a link on how to bypass the chiller all winter, here in minnesota? thanks

[@DIYColdPlunge]

PVC unions at the chiller and a hose w/unions to replace it 👍

[@SeaDave]

Does that venturi injector come with 1/2" hose barbs?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

3/4"

[@SeanBrooksInc]

Do you have a link to the light you use for your plunge?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Yep 👍 diycoldplunge.com/products/multicolor-led-spa-light-diy-cold-plunge

[@gingy2222]

which chiller do you like best?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Active Aqua and EcoPlus 1/4HP have been the best bang for your buck

[@CobraKeener]

What would be the downside of not adding in ozone?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

You'll need to use chemicals to keep the water sanitary 👍

[@christopherdorn2488]

Is there any downside to running the ozone generator 24/7?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I can't say for sure, but there are claims that inhaling high amounts of ozone can cause irritation in the lungs. I've ran mine 24/7 in the past without issue in my garage. It is recommended to have it in an area with ventilation

[@mikeslyla]

Is there any issue with running the ozone in a garage near a gas hot water heater?

[@RichBirdwell]

or, is there an easy way to heat the water with my pump and filter? jacuzzi heater, in line with the pump?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I didnt actually need to use my heater last year, the pump kept everything moving enough

[@engst41]

Is the LED light only an option for the luxury plunge?

[@DIYColdPlunge]

Not at all! It can be used in stock tank builds. More are on the way now, they will be in stock soon 👍 diycoldplunge.com/

[@GingerO762]

Ah fuck I’m just gonna buy a complete system lol

[@DIYColdPlunge]

😂

[@trevorrisley5419]

I am in no way, shape, or form disagreeing with nor arguing with you, but where can I find more information on NOT putting pumps and chillers on timers? I was 100% planning on putting both on chillers, but you’ve done gone and broken my heart with this video.

[@DIYColdPlunge]

What other information are you looking for specifically?

[@trevorrisley5419]

@@DIYColdPlunge I’m just looking for data that says subjected the pumps and chillers to timers is bad news bears.

[@dusbus2384]

I've read that ozone can damage rubbers and plastics like polyethylene causing them to degrade and crack over time and can potentially create toxic chemicals when reacting with them. Have you noticed anything on your builds since you started running ozone? One source below but a google search will show much more. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ozone_cracking

[@DIYColdPlunge]

I may have to entertain this thought. Need more time!