The Benefits of Cold Exposure

Why Use an Ice Bath?

An ice bath provides a controlled environment for cold exposure therapy, allowing you to access numerous physical and mental benefits. Regular cold immersion can build resilience, strengthen your immune system, and improve your ability to handle stress in everyday life.

Physical Benefits

Ice baths can help reduce muscle soreness after intense workouts, aid in recovery by reducing inflammation, and potentially improve circulation throughout the body. The physiological stress of cold exposure may also trigger positive adaptive responses in your body's systems.

Mental Health Benefits

Beyond the physical advantages, ice baths can significantly impact mental health. Cold exposure has been shown to help reduce stress levels, improve mood, increase mental clarity, and build psychological resilience. The discomfort of the ice bath teaches you to remain calm under pressure, a skill that transfers to other areas of life.

Step One: Preparing for Your Ice Bath

Setting Your Mindset

Before entering an ice bath, take a moment to set your intention. Remind yourself why you're doing this and focus on the benefits you'll receive. Approach the experience with curiosity rather than fear. Remember that the discomfort is temporary, but the benefits are lasting.

Focusing on Your Breath

Begin focusing on your breath before you even enter the water. Establish a calm, rhythmic breathing pattern that you can maintain throughout the experience. Your breath will be your anchor during the ice bath, helping you stay present and in control despite the intense sensation of cold.

Step Two: Breathing Technique for Ice Bath Immersion

Breathing In Through Your Nose

When you first enter the ice bath, focus on breathing in through your nose. Nasal breathing helps warm and filter the air before it reaches your lungs and naturally encourages deeper, more controlled breathing. This technique also helps activate your parasympathetic nervous system, countering the stress response triggered by the cold.

Exhaling Slowly

After inhaling through your nose, exhale slowly through your mouth. The extended exhale is crucial for relaxation, as it helps activate your parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous system. This counteracts the natural fight-or-flight response that cold water immersion initially triggers.

Breath Pattern: In for 4, Hold for 3, Out for 6

Follow a specific breathing pattern: inhale for 4 counts, hold for 3 counts, and exhale for 6 counts. This 4-3-6 pattern helps regulate your nervous system and gives you something specific to focus on besides the cold sensation. The longer exhale particularly helps calm your system and reduce stress.

Step Three: Maintaining Control During Cold Exposure

Staying Present and Focused

As you sit in the ice bath, continually bring your attention back to your breath whenever your mind starts to wander or focus on discomfort. Counting your breaths can help maintain focus and prevent the mind from catastrophizing about the cold. Each breath becomes a small achievement.

Using Breath to Reduce Stress and Discomfort

Your breathing is a powerful tool for managing the stress response. When you feel the urge to tense up or breathe rapidly, consciously slow down your breath. This signals to your body that you're safe, helping to reduce the production of stress hormones and allowing you to remain in the cold water longer.

Allowing Yourself to Relax

After the initial shock of cold exposure passes (typically 30-60 seconds), consciously relax your muscles. Scan your body for tension and release it with each exhale. The more you can relax into the experience rather than fight against it, the more comfortable and beneficial your ice bath will be.

Step Four: Exiting the Ice Bath

Slow and Controlled Movements

When it's time to exit the ice bath, maintain your breathing pattern and move slowly and deliberately. Rapid movements can cause blood pressure fluctuations, while controlled movements help your body adjust gradually. Continue focusing on your breath as you transition out of the water.

Post-Ice Bath Recovery

After exiting the ice bath, take a few moments to continue your controlled breathing. This helps your body transition back to normal temperature while maintaining the calm mental state you've cultivated. Many practitioners find this post-immersion period particularly valuable for meditation or reflection on the experience.

Get high-quality ice baths and accessories for your cold therapy practice at Ritual Recovery — ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Introduction to Ice Bath Water Maintenance

Why Water Maintenance Is Important

Maintaining clean water in your ice bath is essential for both hygiene and the proper functioning of your ice bath system. Clean water ensures a better cold plunge experience and extends the life of your equipment, particularly if you're using a chiller system.

Challenges of Regularly Changing Water

Not everyone has easy access to clean water for frequent draining and refilling of their ice bath. This is especially challenging for units placed in locations without convenient water access. Proper maintenance allows you to extend the life of your water without compromising on cleanliness or hygiene.

Step One: Pre-Plunge Hygiene

Showering Before Entering the Ice Bath

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to extend the life of your ice bath water by weeks is to shower before using the ice bath. This pre-plunge hygiene step is crucial for maintaining water quality and reducing the strain on your filtration system.

How Pre-Rinse Helps Prevent Contamination

Showering removes excess hair, fluff, and lint that builds up on your body throughout the day. You'd be surprised how much of this material can enter the water and eventually clog up your chiller system. A quick rinse before plunging significantly reduces these contaminants.

Step Two: Cleaning Your Feet Before Entering

Using a Small Bucket of Water or a Towel

Keep a small bucket of clean water or a towel near your ice bath to clean your feet before entering. This simple step can dramatically reduce the amount of dirt and debris that enters your ice bath.

How Dirty Feet Impact Water Quality

It's remarkable how much dirt, lint, and debris sticks to your feet and washes off as soon as you enter the water. This material quickly builds up in your filter system. By wiping or rinsing your feet before entering, you can extend the life of your paper filter by weeks and maintain clearer water.

Step Three: Skimming the Water Regularly

Using a Spa Scoop to Remove Debris

A simple spa scoop is an invaluable tool for maintaining clean ice bath water. Use it to skim the surface of the water and catch floating debris before it can enter your filtration system.

How Often to Skim Your Ice Bath

For personal use, skim the surface after each plunge or at least once or twice a week. If your ice bath is in a high-traffic area with multiple users, more frequent skimming may be necessary. This simple practice removes a surprising amount of contaminants.

Why Skimming Helps Maintain Filtration

By removing surface debris before it enters your chiller system, you're significantly reducing the buildup in your filtration system. This keeps your water clearer and cleaner while reducing the frequency of filter changes. Always replace the lid after skimming to prevent additional debris from entering the water.

Step Four: Maintaining Your Filters

Replacing the Paper Filter Regularly

For systems like the Stoic Ice Bath with a chiller, the paper filter is the main collector of buildup in the water. It's recommended to change this filter once a month for single daily use. These filters are available on the Ritual Recovery website on a subscription basis or included in the six-monthly maintenance box.

Cleaning the Metal Particulate Filter

In addition to the paper filter, your system also has a metal particulate filter that serves as a secondary catchment for debris. This filter should be removed and washed regularly to protect the mechanics of the chiller system.

Recommended Cleaning Schedule Based on Usage

For personal use with one daily plunge, changing the paper filter once a month is typically sufficient. However, if your ice bath is in a high-traffic area with 10-20 people using it daily, you'll need to change the filter approximately once per week or even more frequently.

Step Five: Using a Maintenance Box for Water Treatment

What's Included in the Six-Monthly Maintenance Box

Ritual Recovery offers a comprehensive six-monthly maintenance box that includes everything needed to maintain your ice bath water chemistry. The box contains six paper filters, test strips to check water quality, and various water treatment products for optimal water balance.

Should You Use Chemicals?

Using chemicals is a personal preference. While some prefer to avoid chemicals altogether, they can be necessary if you don't have the ability to regularly drain and refill your tub. The products included in the maintenance box are selected to be as natural as possible with low chlorine content. If you do use products, please stick to the products we provide as they have been verified by the manufacturer to be safe to use with the product.

How to Test and Balance Water Chemistry

The key to water maintenance is balancing the pH of your water to keep it hygienic—not too acidic and not too alkaline. The maintenance box includes everything you need to test and adjust your water chemistry for optimal cleanliness.

Step Six: Using Water Treatment Products (If Needed)

Using Test Strips to Check Water pH

The maintenance box includes 5-in-1 pool test strips. To use them, simply dunk a strip in the water, wait a moment, and then compare the colors to the chart provided. This tells you the current state of your water chemistry and indicates which products you may need to add.

Adding Spa Shock to Treat Water

When first filling your ice bath, add some Spa Shock according to the dosage instructions on the container (you'll need a very small amount for the approximately 360-liter volume of most ice baths). This initial treatment helps establish clean water.

Using pH Reducer or Alkaline Enhancer

Based on your test strip results, you may need to add either pH reducer or alkaline enhancer to balance your water chemistry. Add the recommended dose according to the test results, wait 15 minutes, and then test again to ensure proper balance.

Recommended Testing Frequency

For personal ice bath use (once daily or every other day), testing the water chemistry every two weeks to once a month is usually sufficient. Adjust this schedule based on your usage patterns and how long you're keeping the same water in your ice bath.

Step Seven: Recap of the Five Key Maintenance Steps

1. Shower Before Using the Ice Bath

Take a quick shower before entering your ice bath to remove excess hair, lint, and other contaminants from your body that could otherwise end up in the water and filtration system.

2. Wipe or Rinse Feet Before Entering

Keep a small bucket of water or a towel near your ice bath to clean your feet before entering, minimizing the dirt and debris that enters your water.

3. Skim the Water Regularly

Use a spa scoop (included with every Stoic Ice Bath purchase) to skim debris from the water surface daily or after each use, and always replace the lid afterward.

4. Replace Paper Filters and Clean Metal Filters Regularly

Change your paper filter monthly for personal use or weekly for high-traffic settings, and regularly clean the metal particulate filter inside your chiller.

5. Use a Maintenance Box for Long-Term Water Quality

Consider using the six-monthly maintenance box from Ritual Recovery to extend the life of your water, especially if regular draining and refilling is challenging. This comprehensive solution works with any ice bath brand and includes everything needed to maintain clean, hygienic water for approximately six months.

Get genuine replacement filters and water maintenance products for your ice bath at Ritual Recovery — ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Step One: Understanding When to Clean the Metal Filter

Recommended Cleaning Frequency

It's recommended to remove and wash your metal filter on a monthly basis or more frequently if needed. This maintenance schedule helps ensure optimal performance of your ice bath chiller system.

Signs That Your Filter Needs Cleaning

If you experience any flow issues with your ice bath chiller, such as reduced water circulation or error messages related to flow, it may indicate that your metal filter requires cleaning sooner than the standard monthly schedule.

Step Two: Powering Off the Chiller and Isolating Water Flow

Turning Off the Chiller Unit

Begin by powering off your chiller unit. Press the power button on the chiller display to completely shut down the system before performing any maintenance.

Closing the Blue Metal Valves to Stop Water Flow

Isolate the water flow by switching the blue valves to the off position (perpendicular to the hose). This prevents water from flowing between the tub and chiller during maintenance.

Step Three: Accessing the Metal Filter

Identifying the Filter Location (Older vs. New Model Chiller)

The location of the metal filter varies depending on your chiller model. If you have the older model chiller, the metal filter is located on the inlet port of your chiller. With the newer model chiller, you'll need to first remove the paper filter canister to access the metal filter.

Removing the Paper Filter Canister (New Models Only)

For newer model chillers, unscrew the paper filter canister by rotating it counterclockwise to gain access to the metal filter compartment. Click here to see our video guide.

Using the Screwdriver to Remove the Metal Plate

Locate the screwdriver in your spares kit and use it to remove the screws attaching the metal plate that covers the metal filter housing. Keep these screws in a safe place for reassembly.

Letting the Chiller Cool Before Proceeding

IMPORTANT: Before removing the metal plate, ensure the chiller has had sufficient time to cool down. The internal components can get very hot during operation and could cause burns if touched while still hot.

Step Four: Removing the Metal Filter

Detaching the Metal Filter Housing

Once the metal plate is removed, you can access the filter canister. To remove the metal filter housing, rotate it towards the front of the chiller until it becomes loose enough to remove.

Being Prepared for Water Spillage

Be aware that some water will spill out of the chiller during this process. Have a towel ready to quickly mop up any water that leaks out to prevent damage to floors or surrounding electronics.

Extracting the Internal Metal Filter

After unscrewing the housing, you can pull out the internal metal filter for cleaning. Handle it carefully to avoid damaging the fine mesh structure.

Step Five: Cleaning the Metal Filter

Rinsing Under Running Water

Clean the metal filter by rinsing it under a normal tap with running water. Use gentle pressure to avoid damaging the mesh while still removing all buildup.

Removing Hair and Debris

Carefully remove any hair and debris that has accumulated in the filter. These can significantly impede water flow and reduce system efficiency if not cleaned regularly.

Step Six: Reinstalling the Metal Filter

Placing the Clean Filter Back into the Housing

Once the filter is clean, reinsert it into the metal filter housing, ensuring it sits properly in the designated space within the housing.

Reattaching the Metal Filter Housing Securely

Screw the metal filter housing back onto the thread by rotating it towards the back of the chiller. Ensure it's properly aligned and tightened to prevent leaks.

Screwing the Metal Plate Back in Place

Reattach the metal plate by screwing in the four screws you removed earlier. Make sure the plate is securely fastened to maintain the integrity of the chiller unit.

Step Seven: Restoring Water Flow and Power

Reinstalling the Paper Filter Canister

If you have a newer model that required removing the paper filter canister, screw it back into place by rotating clockwise until hand-tight.

Reopening the Metal Valves to Restore Water Flow

Reopen your metal valves by turning them to the parallel position to allow water flow back into the chiller. Ensure they are fully open for optimal water circulation.

Turning the Chiller Back On

Power the chiller back on by pressing the power button on the display. The system should now operate with improved flow thanks to the clean metal filter.

Step Eight: Troubleshooting Flow Issues

Ensuring the Metal Filter Is Seated Correctly

If you're experiencing flow issues after cleaning your metal filter, you might need to check that the filter is seated correctly in its housing. Improper positioning can restrict water flow.

Checking the O-Ring Seal

Verify that the O-ring on the filter housing is intact and properly seated. A damaged or misaligned O-ring can cause leaks and reduce system pressure.

Tightening the Filter Housing Properly

Make sure the filter housing is tightened firmly (hand tight) so that the O-ring creates a proper seal. Over-tightening can damage the O-ring, while under-tightening can lead to leaks and reduced water flow.

Get genuine replacement parts and filters for your ice bath chiller at Ritual Recovery — ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

See our full troubleshooting guide at this link.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for changing the paper filter in your Ritual Recovery ice bath chiller.

Replacement paper filters can be purchased through the Ritual Recovery store at this link.

Step One: Power Off the Chiller

Turning Off the Chiller Unit

Begin by pressing the power button on the chiller display to turn off the unit. This safety measure ensures the pump is not running during filter replacement.

Isolating the Water Flow

Go to the back of your tub and rotate the blue levers on your metal valves to the closed position. This stops the water flow between the tub and chiller, preventing water from spilling when you open the filter housing.

Step Two: Removing the Old Filter

Accessing the Filter Canister

Locate the filter canister on your chiller unit. Rotate the filter canister in an anticlockwise direction to unscrew and remove it from the housing.

Using the Wrench Tool if Needed

If your filter canister is particularly tight and difficult to unscrew by hand, use the provided white wrench tool. Position it under the canister for better leverage and then turn anticlockwise to loosen.

Removing and Disposing of the Old Filter

Once the canister is open, remove the used paper filter from inside. Even if the filter doesn't appear excessively dirty, regular replacement ensures optimal water circulation and cleanliness. Dispose of the old filter in your regular waste bin.

Step Three: Preparing the New Filter

Unwrapping the Fresh Paper Filter

Take your new paper filter and remove the outer plastic protective layer. This ensures that only the filter material comes into contact with your water.

Filling the Canister with Water

Before inserting the new filter, refill your filter canister with water. This important step helps with the priming process and ensures proper water flow once the system is restarted.

Placing the New Filter Correctly

Insert the fresh paper filter into the canister, making sure it rests properly on the bottom knob of the canister. Correct positioning is crucial for efficient filtration.

Step Four: Reattaching the Filter Canister

Screwing the Canister Back into Place

Screw the filter canister back into the housing by turning it clockwise until hand-tight. Be careful not to over-tighten, which could damage the threading or make future removal difficult.

Ensuring Proper Alignment

A helpful tip when screwing in your filter canister: use small, incremental twists rather than one continuous turn. This technique helps ensure the filter stays centrally positioned within the canister, which is essential for proper water flow.

Step Five: Restoring Water Flow and Power

Reopening the Metal Valves

Return to the metal valves at the back of your tub and open the flow by rotating the blue levers back to their original, open position. This restores the water circulation path between your tub and chiller.

Powering the Chiller Back On

Return to the chiller display and press the power button to turn the unit back on. The chiller should resume normal operation with improved water flow through the new filter.

Step Six: Checking for Flow Issues

Verifying Proper Filter Positioning

After changing your paper filter, monitor the system for any flow issues. If problems occur, you may need to recheck that the filter is centrally positioned within the canister, as improper positioning can restrict water flow.

Ensuring the Metal Valves Are Fully Open

Double-check that the metal valves are in the fully open position. Partially closed valves will restrict water flow and affect the chiller's performance.

Additional Maintenance

Cleaning or Replacing the Metal Filter

In addition to the paper filter, your system also has a metal filter that requires periodic maintenance. Cleaning or replacing this metal filter involves a different procedure that will be covered in a separate guide.

Unboxing Your Easy Plunge

What's Included in the Box

Your Easy Plunge package includes the Easy Plunge ice bath tub, a hand pump for inflation, a drainage valve, the plunge tub lid, and six support poles that provide structure to the tub.

Additional Items Needed

To complete your setup, you'll also need ice bags (recommended 3-4 bags) and access to a garden hose or other water source to fill the tub.

Step One: Preparing the Tub

Unfolding and Positioning the Tub

Take the plunge tub out of its packaging bag. Unfold it completely and place it on a stable, flat surface where you plan to use it. Make sure the area has enough space and can handle potential water spillage.

Inserting the Support Poles

The tub has six slots designed to hold the support poles that provide structure. Insert each support pole with the round end first into its designated slot. Continue this process around the entire tub until all six poles are securely in place.

Step Two: Checking and Securing the Drainage Valve

Locating the Drainage Valve

Your tub will come with a drainage valve already connected to the appropriate outlet on the tub. This valve allows you to empty the tub when needed.

Ensuring the Washer Is in Place

Before proceeding, check that your drainage valve has a washer around the thread. This rubber washer is essential for creating a watertight seal and preventing leaks.

Tightening and Closing the Valve

Screw the drainage valve clockwise until hand-tight to secure it properly. Ensure you close the valve completely before filling the tub with water to prevent any leakage during use.

Step Three: Inflating the Tub Rim

Using the Hand Pump

Locate the inflation valve on the rim of the tub. Insert the hand pump nozzle into this valve and begin pumping to inflate the rim. Continue until the rim is fully inflated and firm to the touch.

Sealing the Inflation Valve

Once the rim is fully inflated, plug the inflation valve securely to maintain the air pressure. This creates the rigid upper structure of your ice bath.

Step Four: Checking the Floor Drain

Locating the Floor Drain Inside the Tub

Inside your tub, you'll notice a plastic floor drain. This secondary drain allows for complete emptying of the tub when needed.

Ensuring the Drain Is Shut Before Filling

Make sure this floor drain is completely shut before you start filling the tub with water. An open drain will cause immediate water loss and prevent proper filling.

Step Five: Inflating the Lid

Using the Hand Pump for Inflation

Take the Easy Plunge inflatable lid and use the same hand pump to inflate it fully. The lid should be firm but not overly tight when properly inflated.

Securing the Lid for Later Use

Set the inflated lid aside temporarily while you complete the next steps. You'll need it after the tub is filled and ice is added.

Step Six: Filling the Tub with Water

Using a Hose or Water Source

Connect a garden hose or use another suitable water source to begin filling your tub. Make sure the water is clean and appropriate for bathing.

Filling to the Recommended Water Level

Fill the tub to approximately 30 cm (about 12 inches) below the top of the tub. This allows enough space for both the ice and your body displacement when you enter the bath.

Step Seven: Adding Ice to the Tub

Recommended Amount of Ice

For an effective cold plunge experience, add 3 to 4 bags of ice to your filled tub. This quantity provides a good starting point for most users to achieve a properly cold temperature.

Allowing the Ice to Melt to Reach Optimal Temperature

Give the ice some time to melt partially and distribute its cold temperature throughout the water. This melting process helps the water reach its minimum effective temperature for your cold plunge therapy.

Step Eight: Placing the Lid and Final Preparations

Covering the Tub with the Inflatable Lid

Place the previously inflated lid on top of the tub. The lid helps maintain the cold temperature by insulating the water and preventing heat transfer.

Ensuring the Water Reaches the Desired Temperature

Allow a few minutes for the temperature to stabilize after adding the ice. The optimal temperature will depend on your personal preference and cold tolerance.

Step Nine: Enjoying Your Ice Bath

Now all that's left to do is take the plunge! Slowly enter the ice bath and enjoy the invigorating cold therapy experience. Remember to follow recommended timing guidelines based on your experience level with cold therapy, starting with shorter durations and gradually increasing as your body adapts.

Step One: Positioning Your Tub

Unboxing and Placement

Unbox your ice bath tub and chiller and place them on a stable, flat surface. This ensures your ice bath will operate correctly and safely. You can also lock the wheels of the chiller by pressing down the metal plates on the wheels once in place.

Indoor Setup Considerations

If you're setting up indoors, make sure you've chosen a suitable space with adequate airflow and drainage. The area should be capable of dealing with any spillage that may occur during use of the tub.

Power and Water Requirements

You will need access to 240V, 10 amp power for the chiller unit. Additionally, you should have a suitable hose point nearby for filling and draining your tub.

Step Two: Inflating Your Tub

Using the Hand Pump

Take your double action hand pump and insert the black hose into the inflate port on your pump by rotating clockwise. Take the other end of the pump and insert it into the gray inflation port on the tub.

Inflation Process and PSI Guidelines

Before inflating, check that the small pin on the inflation valve is out. Inflate your tub to 8-10 PSI by monitoring the dial on the pump. It's important not to inflate over 10 PSI to avoid damaging the tub.

Sealing the Inflation Valve

Once inflated, remove the black hose from the inflation valve. If air begins to pour out, you'll need to pop the inflation pin out and attempt to re-inflate. After successful inflation, cover the inflation valve to seal it properly.

Plugging the Tub for Solo Use

If you're using the Stoic tub solo (without a chiller), take one of the plugs located in your orange tube and insert it into both the tub outlet and inlet to seal the tub completely.

Step Three: Connecting the Valves to Your Tub

Attaching the L-Valves

Take one of your gray L-valves and place an O-ring over the threaded end. Rotate the L-valve clockwise into each connection on your tub, tightening firmly by hand until secure.

Using Plumber's Tape for a Secure Seal

After attaching the L-valves, take your plumber's tape and wrap it around the other thread at the end of the L-valve. Ensure you wrap it evenly and don't cover the hole on the L-valve to maintain proper water flow.

Connecting the Metal Valves

Take one of your metal valves and screw it into each threaded end on the L-valve. Secure them properly to ensure there are no leaks during operation.

Setting Up for Solo Use Without a Chiller

If you're using the Stoic tub solo without a chiller, you can simply rotate the metal valves into the perpendicular position. This closes the valves and prepares the tub for filling with water and ice.

Step Four: Connecting the Hoses

Preparing the Chiller Ports

Unscrew the white protective caps on your chiller by turning them anticlockwise. This exposes the connection ports for attaching the hoses.

Checking for O-Rings

This is a crucial step: check for the presence of an O-ring in each hose end before attaching. If there are no O-rings present, use the spares provided in the plastic sleeve to ensure proper sealing.

Attaching the Hoses to the Chiller

Connect one hose to each port on the chiller labeled "IN" and "CHILL OUT." Screw them in clockwise and hand tighten only. Over-tightening could damage the connections.

Connecting the Hoses to the Tub

Connect the red chiller inlet to the red tub outlet, and the green chiller outlet to the green tub inlet. Remember this simple rule: green connects to green, and red connects to red.

Ensuring Proper Airflow and Ventilation

Once your tub and chiller are positioned where you want them, ensure there is at least 500mm of clearance between the chiller fan and any adjacent wall. This is essential for adequate airflow and ventilation to prevent overheating.

Step Five: Inserting the Filter

Removing the Filter Canister

Unscrew your filter canister by turning it anticlockwise. This allows you to access the filter compartment for insertion of the paper filter. See our guide at this link.

Preparing and Inserting the Filter

Remove any plastic coating on the paper filter before use. Insert the filter centrally into the canister, ensuring it sits flat and covers the entire filtering area.

Filling the Canister for Proper Priming

Before reattaching the filter canister, fill it almost to the top with water. This step is extremely important as it helps the self-priming mechanism of the chiller function correctly.

Reattaching the Canister Securely

Reinsert your filter canister by screwing it in firmly hand-tight in a clockwise direction. For best results, use small incremental rotations when screwing in your filter canister. This allows the filter canister to naturally settle into the central position. Do not forced the canister shut, crushing or crimping your paper filter may restrict flow and cause issues.

Step Six: Filling Your Tub

Using a Hose or Water Source

Fill the tub using a suitable hose or water source. Ensure the water is clean and appropriate for bathing.

Filling to the Correct Water Level

Fill the tub to just below the maximum water line marked on the inside of the tub. This prevents overflow during use.

Adjusting Based on Body Size

Depending on your body shape and size, you may need to test and adjust the water level to find what's suitable for you. The goal is to prevent water from spilling over the edge when you get in.

Step Seven: Powering On Your Chiller

Plugging in the Chiller

Connect your chiller power cable to a suitable power outlet that meets the required specifications (240V, 10 amp).

Testing the RCD Switch

Before operation, test the RCD (Residual Current Device) switch on the back of the chiller. Lift up the plastic cover, flip the blue lever to the up position, then press the orange test button. The blue lever should automatically flip down, isolating power to the chiller. If it doesn't do this, do not use the chiller and contact support immediately.

Turning on the Chiller

Press the power button on your chiller display to activate the unit. This begins the startup sequence.

Allowing the Chiller to Self-Prime

The chiller will run through a self-priming mechanism for 1-2 minutes if everything is connected correctly. This process removes air from the system and ensures proper water circulation.

Setting the Desired Temperature

Once the chiller has completed its self-priming process, set your desired temperature by pressing the plus or minus buttons on the chiller display. The chiller will begin cooling or heating the water to reach your target temperature.

Checking the Flow Rate

The flow rate should be sitting around 17-20 liters per minute, which is a good indicator that everything is set up correctly. This measurement will be displayed on the chiller's digital readout.

Checks for Correct Setup

Verifying Flow Rate and Self-Priming

If your chiller is not running at 17-20 liters per minute or it fails to cycle through the self-priming mechanism, you'll need to troubleshoot the setup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Checking Valve Tightness

Try to retighten your L-valves to ensure there are no leaks in the connections. Hand-tight is usually sufficient.

Ensuring Metal Valve Levers Are Open

Make sure that the blue levers on your metal valves are in the open, parallel position to allow water flow.

Confirming O-Ring Presence

Double-check that each hose end has an O-ring present. Missing O-rings will cause leaks and improper water flow.

Repositioning the Filter

Remove your filter canister, reposition your filter to ensure it's centered, and then retighten the canister.

Double-Checking Hose Connections (Green to Green, Red to Red)

Verify that your hoses are correctly connected: green to green and red to red. Improper connections will prevent the system from working effectively.

See our full troubleshoot guides at this link.

Step Eight: Pairing Your Chiller with a Smart Device

Downloading the App

Download the TuyaSmart app or Smart Life app from your device's app store. These apps allow you to control your chiller remotely.

Entering Pairing Mode

To enter pairing mode on your chiller, press the settings button, then hold down the Wi-Fi button for 3-5 seconds. The display will indicate that it has entered pairing mode.

Connecting to Wi-Fi

Open the app on your device and select "Add Device." If your phone is connected to the Wi-Fi network and your chiller is within range of that network, the app will automatically recognize the chiller as "SY Ice."

Verifying the Connection

The app will ask you to verify the network ID and password. Ensure you use the same network ID and password as you're using on your device. The chiller will initialize in the app and take a minute or so to verify the connection.

Step Nine: Setting a Timing Schedule

Adding an On/Off Schedule

Once your chiller is connected to the app, you can add automated on/off settings. In the app, select "Switch Timer," then add a schedule by selecting your desired time and whether you want the chiller to power on or off.

Adjusting Temperature and Ozone Sanitation

Through the app, you can adjust your temperature settings and modify your ozone sanitation timing for water purification.

Using Remote Control Features

The app also allows you to turn the child lock on or off and power the chiller on or off remotely from anywhere with an internet connection.

Step Ten: Inflating the Lid

Using the Hand Pump for Inflation

Take your insulated lid and inflate it using the same method you used for the tub. This creates a proper seal to maintain water temperature.

Securing the Lid for Safety

The insulated lid keeps the cold water in and keeps debris out when the tub is not in use. Place it securely on top of the tub after each use.

Locking the Lid for Child Safety

For additional safety, you can lock the lid with the provided code lock. This prevents unauthorised access and is especially important if you have children in the home.

Step Eleven: Allowing the Chiller to Cool or Heat the Water

Sit back and wait for your chiller to cool or heat the water to your desired temperature. The time required will depend on your starting water temperature and your target temperature setting.

Now you're ready to enjoy your Stoic ice bath! If you require additional support, please reach out to Ritual Recovery's customer service team.