How To Transform Your Chest Freezer Into A Cold Plunge

Cold immersion, a vital component of the Wim Hof Method, offers numerous health benefits, including improved circulation and reduced inflammation. It has truly changed our lives for the better. If you're looking to incorporate daily cold immersion into your routine, setting up a chest freezer in your home is a convenient way to do so.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that the information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this blog post presented by Joeseph Hauss LLC and affiliates, licensees, successors, agents, etc., are for informational purposes only and should not be considered electrical, medical, clinical, or any other form of professional advice. Any reliance on the information provided is done at your own risk. Cold immersion, a component of the Wim Hof Method, has been shown to offer numerous health benefits. Still, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your routine. Additionally, using a chest freezer for cold immersion at home can be dangerous if not done properly. We are not responsible for any injuries or damages that may result from using a chest freezer for cold immersion at home. Always use caution and consult a professional before attempting cold immersion at home. BY CONTINUING ON THIS PAGE, YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE READ, UNDERSTAND, AND AGREE TO THE ABOVE STATEMENTS.

Setting up your chest freezer (step by step) ⤵

STEP 1: Choose your chest freezer. When picking a chest freezer for cold immersion, there are a few factors to consider. First, it's important to make sure the freezer is large enough to accommodate you or a container/bin of ice water. It's also important to make sure the freezer has an adjustable thermostat so you can set it to the appropriate temperature – typically between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, you'll want to look for a freezer with a reliable lid seal to keep the cold air inside. Finally, consider the size and location of the freezer – you'll want to make sure it fits in your space and is easily accessible.

We have a 14.8-cu ft. Kenmore Model. We bought our first one from Lowes in April 2020 and our second one in 2022 (same model.)

You can get one in any size that fits you. We recommend heading to the store and jumping in a couple of unplugged floor models to test for comfort. Something smaller like this is also an option.

DISCLAIMER: Using a chest freezer for cold immersion at home can be dangerous if not done properly. Consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating cold immersion into your routine, and always use caution. Unplugging your freezer before your next cold immersion session will prevent the risk of electric shock and death. We are not responsible for any injuries or damages that may result from using a chest freezer for cold immersion at home. Any reliance on the information provided is done at your own risk. BY CONTINUING ON THIS PAGE, YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE READ, UNDERSTAND, AND AGREE TO THE ABOVE STATEMENTS.

STEP 2: Caulk your chest freezer. Visit our new blog post, "How to Caulk Your Chest Freezer for Safe and Effective Cold Immersion," for step-by-step instructions. After you think you've finished caulking your chest freezer, it's important to test for leaks to ensure that the seal is reliable. Learn how to do that in the same blog post referenced above.

STEP 3: Allow your chest freezer to reach your desired temperature by adjusting the thermostat (typically a dial or button on the exterior of the freezer to between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit) and giving it time to cool down. This might take a day or two when first filling your chest freezer with fresh water. You can use a thermometer. 

STEP 4: Start practicing. While breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth in a controlled manner, start by standing in the ice water for 30 seconds to one minute and then gradually increase the time as you get used to the cold. It's important to listen to your body during cold immersion and never push yourself to the point of discomfort.

It's also a good idea to have a towel and warm clothes nearby for after your immersion.

Incorporate cold immersion into your daily routine by setting aside time for it each day, ideally in the morning.

Other helpful things to purchase:

• Submersible utility pump. We used Superior Pump 91250. You'll need to drain the tub every now and again when the water starts to get dirty. The submersible utility pump makes it a lot easier and faster. When picking a submersible utility pump, there are a few factors to consider. First, it's important to choose a pump with the appropriate flow rate for your needs. This will ensure that the pump is able to efficiently circulate the water in your cold immersion tank. Additionally, consider the pump's materials and construction – you'll want to choose a pump that is made of durable materials and has a reliable build. It's also important to choose a pump that is designed for use in utility applications, as these pumps are typically more rugged and can handle debris and solids in the water. Finally, consider the size and weight of the pump – you'll want to choose a pump that is easy to handle and fits in your cold immersion tank
  
  
• Waterproof outdoor electrical timer. You can remember to unplug your freezer every so often or use a timer so that your water doesn't freeze from running too long. We used Plusmart 24 Hour Outdoor Lights.
  
  
• Submersible pump. Lindsay likes to save electricity, so we only keep ours on for a couple of hours each day. You have the option of running it 24/7. The submersible pump keeps the water moving and oxygenated, and cleaner longer. We used VIVOSUN 800GPH Submersible Pump.
  
  
• Hose. You'll need a hard hose (and not a scrunchy one.) A scrunchy hose will take a very long time to empty. We use this one.

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