Ice Bath Care and Maintenance Guide

A little regular care keeps your ZenChill ice bath clean, clear, and running well. None of it takes long — a few minutes here and there is all it takes. Here's exactly what we recommend, whether you've got a ZenChill XL, Standard, or Black Edition.

Cleaning the Filters

Wash the mesh pre-filter every 5 plunges. Carefully unscrew the base — no need to detach the whole filter connection — and be careful not to lose the rubber seal inside the housing, which keeps it watertight. Wash the interior and exterior until it's free of slime and debris. If you have the 20 micron filter, wash it every 2 weeks and replace it monthly. First-generation units have an internal filter rather than an external one — get in touch if you'd like to arrange converting to an external pre-filter.

Cleaning the Tub (Weekly)

Brush the sides of the tub with a sponge, then the base, then sift any floating debris off the top of the water.

Changing the Water

Change the water every 3–4 weeks. Turn the chiller off at the power button, close both valves connected to the tub, and disconnect the hoses. Direct the Water IN (PUSH) hose toward your drainage point and place the Water OUT (PULL) hose into the tub, then turn the chiller back on — it will pull water from the tub and push it out at the discharge point. Keep the hose fully submerged and unobstructed while it's running. Once drained, switch the chiller off, gently tip the tub to empty any remaining water, and wipe it down with a cloth.

Water Treatment

We use the AquaSpa chlorine/bromine-free range — Spa Sanitiser and Spa Kleer Clarifier weekly, and Spa Shock weekly and/or after each use for extra clarity. The right dose depends on your actual water volume, which comes down to how full you've filled the tub rather than just the model, so get in touch and we can work out the exact amount for your setup, in mL/g or everyday kitchen spoon measures. Spoon measures are a practical guide rather than a precise dose, since granule size and packing vary — a syringe is the more accurate option if you'd like one.

Quarterly Maintenance & Descaling

Every three months or so: drain the tub, scrub it inside and out with warm soapy water and a soft sponge, run soapy water through the hoses and rinse with clean water, then let everything air dry completely — avoid aggressive scrubbing. Check the air pressure and refill to 10 PSI, and check for any mildew buildup, getting in touch if you spot any. We also recommend descaling the chiller at least three times a year: disconnect the hoses from the tub, run a 1:4 white vinegar-to-water mix through the chiller in heating mode for around 30 minutes, then flush through with clean water the same way. Get in touch if you'd like the full step-by-step.

Chemicals to Avoid

The chiller's pump handles chlorine or salt at normal pool-range concentrations without issue. We recommend avoiding bromine-based sanitisers.

Storage & Moving the Chiller

If you won't be using the chiller for a while, drain it and store it in a dry area, ideally between 15–28°C. If freezing conditions are ever expected, drain the water or add antifreeze to prevent damage. When moving the chiller, always keep it upright — never tip it more than 15 degrees or lay it on its front or back — and use the handles to move it in a straight or backward direction.

Questions About Your Ice Bath?

If you're ever unsure about the best way to care for your ice bath, or just want a second opinion before you try something, reach out — we're happy to help.

Looking after your ice bath properly is easy once it's a habit. Explore our full Ice Baths range, or get in touch if you have any questions.