Using a Chiller or Pump with Your Antarctic Ice Bath

The Wave Antarctic Ice Bath comes with a filter, but no built-in pump or chiller. You can cool it with ice, or connect an external chiller to cool the water electrically and keep it circulating through the filter. This guide explains how.

Can I connect a chiller or pump?

Yes. The Antarctic has a water inlet and water outlet designed for an external cooling system. With a chiller connected, water is drawn through the filter inside the tub, cooled, and returned. The filter cartridge supplied is compatible with a chiller and circulation pump.

The Antarctic can be kept between 3°C and 37°C (37.4°F–98.6°F) with a chiller.

Please note: Wave doesn't sell or recommend a specific chiller or pump model. The chiller is not included.

What's included for connecting a chiller

• D32 mm connection kit: two screw fittings (water inlet and outlet) on the side of the tub

• Two connection pipes: 250 mm (9.8") long, Ø 32 mm (1.26")

• Two caps to close the inlet and outlet when no chiller is connected

• Filter cartridge and filter support

Choosing a chiller

• Choose a chiller with 32 mm connections, or use a suitable adaptor.

• Check it can cool down to the temperature you want (the Antarctic's range is 3°C–37°C).

• Follow the chiller manufacturer's instructions for installation and electrical safety.

My chiller has threaded, garden-hose-style connections. Will it fit?

Not directly. The Antarctic uses 32 mm (D32) pool-pipe connections, not garden-hose threads. If your chiller's lines are threaded like a garden hose, you'll need an adaptor from your chiller's hose fitting to 32 mm. These are available from pool and spa suppliers. Check the exact size and thread of your chiller's fittings in its manual before buying an adaptor.

Wave doesn't sell chiller adaptors. If you'd like help checking, see Need help? below.

How to connect it

1. Inflate the tub to the recommended pressure (wall 5 PSI, floor 8 PSI) and close the air valve.

2. Connect the chiller to the tub using the two screw fittings.

3. Remove the two caps inside the tub.

4. Insert the filter cartridge into the filter support, then screw the filter support onto the low suction connection inside the tub.

5. Fill the tub to between the minimum and maximum water levels.

6. Start the chiller and let it reach your chosen temperature. Check it with a thermometer or the chiller's display.

Safety and care

• Keep other electrical appliances at least 3 m away from the tub (the chiller and filtration system excepted).

• Install the tub near a drain so condensate from the chiller can run off.

• Clean the filter every 1–2 weeks and replace it every 1–2 months. A clogged filter can contaminate the water and damage the chiller's circulation pump.

• Always disconnect the chiller before draining or storing the tub.

• The Antarctic is designed for one adult. Limit ice baths to 10–15 minutes and consult a doctor before use.

Need help?

If you're unsure whether a chiller will fit, use the chat widget at the bottom of the page and send us the chiller's make, model and connection size, and we'll help where we can.