David Thanks for the video. The area we live in I may need to unhook chiller and put in the garage for a couple of weeks in the winter, have you looked into using camlocks ?
Dave, what’s up with Ice Barrel? Communication is horrible. After watching this video I decided on the ice Barrel 500 and ordered it over a month ago and still haven’t received it. Do you have any direct communication with Ice Barrel?
Same here. I ordered the Ice Barrel 500 in June 2024 and I still don't have the product (9/9/24). Now I have to research and order another cold plunge from a different company. I must have sent Ice Barrel around 13 reminder emails. I've been in contact with Gillian and Payton, but they are way too slow in responding. I appreciate David promoting Ice Barrel, however, I would stay away and look for another company. Ice Barrel has the worst communication and now I need to get my money back. Such a waste of my time.
Three things I would do differently 1. Use plumbers tape on all threaded connections. 2. - use plastic connectors vs brass or metal if possible. 3. Put a ball valve inline before the filter to allow clean out
Ok....Barrel 500 is on the way and should be at my house next week...Can not wait! I had already purchased all the items in your description from Amazon and used your discount to get an additional $189 off the Barrel (thanks for that). I am setting up in my garage gym and will also need to make sure there are no leaks. Literally like a little kid on Christmas morning! Thanks again for all the great videos.
I appreciate this so much!! I’m doing this setup with the 300!! ( patiently waiting for it to ship) but in the meantime I’ve got the 1/4 horse active aqua going into a shitty cold pod and it’s holding temp at 42 f!! In salt lake with 100 degree weather!! Impressive
I ended up doing this DIY. I added another filter after the pump. it's working great. Thank you very much for creating this DIY video man. great stuff on here!
This was super useful for me as my first chiller just died on me and I have to redo my setup. The only thing I'd recommend adding is a shut off valve in between the T connector and the filter so you can clean/replace the filter without having the water drain out. Otherwise I'm following your instructions exactly 👍
I just wanted to say thank you for your extreme detail. Laying everything out in such a way that we can see it and understands how things are physically working is awesome. For me you took all the guesswork out of actually getting this done. Not sure if you have any idea of the cost to run a tub for a month, I know there are many variables (what tub, where...in sun out of sun...etc, how big of a pump and chiller, where you live such as Florida, in my case the ridiculous California)...but, any estimated range would be good to know. Thanks again for the info.
Thanks for the love and support! Surprisingly I have multiple tubs running 24/7 and dont see any major noticeable difference in my power bill. I could find a way to test it but with a family of 6 and the doors always open my bill was high before hooking these up and its about the same now :)
Loving my active aqua 1/2hp chiller paired with the 1000gph pump. Total game changer compared to my last chiller/pump combo. Hottest part of the day and it was only 2° away from set point of 45°. My last setup with the same tub would be 52-53° by about the same time.
Incredible build man. I thank God I’ve waited to pull the trigger on ice barrel until now. I’m going with the 500 and following this exact advice. Thanks!
How well did the 1/4 hp chiller end up working?? I live in a very hot climate and have the 500. I ve been doing weekly costco trips for ice but i am looking at getting a chiller at some point. Great video and walk through.
Love the build! If I may suggest, in order to pump out the water faster put the T at the outlet side of the pump. With the spigot open then plug your inlet side (with the black male 3/4 plug that the 500 came with) from the inside and it will empty your 500 in no time. I did this with my over complicated build along with a garden hose and I water the plants and grass with the water. Another tip is to get a threaded and barbed combo 3/4 for the inlet side to your hose connection to lower the profile and hug the barrel better. Just my 2cents on your awesome channel. Love the content brother.
Thank you for this video! I am going to run with this set up opposed to the other set up. You are the man! Hope you get to the 100 thousand subscribers soon!
Awesome video David! Appreicate you breaking everything down step by step and providing the part list. Very helpful! I'm new to the DIY cold plunge set up, and was hoping you, or anyone else on the thread could answer a couple questions for me. Is it necessary to always keep the water pump running, or its it best to set the pump and cooler on a timer? Do you have to unplug the equipment before getting into the cold plunge (i.e. risk of electrical shock), since the pump and cooler are outside the unit? How loud would you say the Danner 950 water pump is when running? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Hi David. Super informative. I have my IB500 but have not bought the chiller yet. Question: what are the specs for a drain hose to connect to the spigot? My chiller is inside so will need to drain using a hose.
Another great tutorial. I have the OG IB400 set up more like your original build. I had issues with leaks and noise from the aqua pump, so set it up like your original build with the green filter sitting inside the barrel as well. I would much prefer to keep everything outside of the barrel so that I can move my arms and legs around without bumping anything but am going to enjoy the experience and leave it as is until I change the water. I love the insulation with this model though, so I'll have some thinking to do and may have to start putting a little money to the side for an “upgrade.” The 400 sweats quite a bit. Not sure if you've seen DIY Cold Plunge but he put out a plan for adding another ozone and filtration set up. I have that going as well which really seems to be helping keep the water clean. I have it set on a timer for 30 minutes every night but based on what you mentioned, I might cut that back to maybe 15 minutes a night or every two or three nights.
Incredible timing - just found out my Ice Barrel 500 gets delivered in 1 week (after weeks of waiting) and was getting ready to pull the trigger on your previous setup! Love your videos, thank you so much for all the great content. Quick question - I live in Boston which means over the winter it's regularly below freezing. I plan to have an outdoor setup. Will I only be able to use this chiller in the warmer seasons (ie will it freeze outside?) Any advice for chiller for someone in my area who has to deal with freezing temps?
I have the 1/4 hp and the daner 950. Just waiting for my IB 500. I did build a ozone into my filter system. Just a preference after messing with water challenges in my last cold plunge. Excited to get it all set up
I've read that ozone can damage certain types of rubbers and plastics but I rarely see it discussed with cold plunges. Have you looked into this at all?
I did some research and there isn't any info that says ozone is a risk to cold plunges. It could be a risk to a chiller though so I have mine after the output of the chiller just to be safe. I will monitor and remove the ozone if it is ineffective or causing any erosion. It's a good call out. I am not 100% confident but there are lots of people who use them with no complaints.
Awesome! That topic is always tricky. Ozone works well, but its not needed all the time. That is why I jsut use an ozone generator when the water looks or smells like its getting bad and I run it for an hour. If i built on in i would probaby only run it for 15-30 mins in the middle of the night.
Dave, have you heard of anyone using a small sand filter for the cold plunge? there are several brands that have a half horsepower pump and hold 50 pounds or less of sand better designed for above ground pools.
Have you ever tried adding epsom salts or anything like that to enhance the therapy benefits with the plunges? For the last month it was cold enough to still use my rubbermaid I started adding epsom and found it beneficial. See others in the r/coldplunge talking about putting dead sea salt in theirs.
Hey Dave, just bought mine. Have you looked into whether is possible to side mount the components on the side of the ice barrel 500 like the Desert Plunge does? Asking because I like how clean the cord management is as well as the addition of an automated ozone device.
I see you’re pushing the 1/4 hp chiller. Tell me this, how long does it keep the water at the 3degree leeway before it kicks on? Does the chiller run once an hour for 15 or so minutes or does the insulation keep it cold to where the chiller runs once every two hours ?please and thank you
Excellent David! - thanks for making this. I'll most likely get this done for my Ice Barrel 300 - since i have mine in my garage, you're thinking the 25 HP is plenty right? I try to stay around 45 degrees - thanks
I wouldn’t use a tee. I would just use a valve before the strainer to allow for strainer cleaning without draining barrel. I would also use pipe dope or teflon tape on each fitting.
@davidmausjr thank you for all of your insight. I have procured the IB300. In some of your videos you show a connection to the 1HP AA chiller and in others you talk about going all the way down to a 1/4 HP. I plan to use my IB first thing in the morning so will have the chiller running the night before to get the water temp down. I am debating between the 1/2 HP and 1 HP AA. The setup will be outside in Texas. Thoughts on which one to go with?
How long does it take you to chill your tub? I bought this exact tub and start to chill it and it drops 3 degrees in an hour and a half. What could I be doing wrong?
David, just finished setting mine up using your video. AWEOME. Can you tell me how you use, and how often, the Hydrogen Perixide? The icebarrel Stabilize is self explanatory. Thanks a ton.
Just finished the setup today! Used a 1HP chiller from Active Aqua… total overkill haha. Big question: what smart devices do you use to turn everything on / off? I don’t really want the pump running 24/7 as this sits in a temp controlled garage. Any thoughts? Was thinking a simple timer but. Just don’t want to mess up the active aqua.
Hey man great content I've been looking at quite a few of your reviews. Any noticeable difference on the electricity bill? Assuming your running 24/7. I know it varies based off where you live, but just wondering.
Hey David. Thought I'd ask since you've tried both ice up and IB. ive actually ordered a IB 500. but I was leaning towards the chiller Ice Up sells that has all in one. I imagine your DIY setup may be less expensive, but why didnt you just use your all in one chiller with the IB?
@davidmausjr how are you ensuring the cords do not get wet? should i make sure the fill level is correct? is it okay for the cords to get wet from water overflow and rain outdoors i guess?
Hi David . I just moved and had to part with my troth I was using. I was wondering if there is an ice barrel you are not in need of or want to part with it. I live in Florida myself. Please let me know and God Bless 🙏🏼😊
Where do you attach the filter? or do you not use one and only rely on the strainer? really love this set up and looking to purchase, just curious on this filter decision. thanks
I’ve missed a few videos. You used to insist on a 1HP chiller with 1” tubing. What’s changed? Is it because the insulated barrel doesn’t need the extra HP?
Thanks David, great information as always! Hey wondering if there is a way to add a hot water component to this setup to make it a cold/hot setup? Thanks again!
@@jonmkellermy wife’s boss has a chiller hooked up to his hot tub built into the pool. It’s not ideal nor cheap though and takes 24 hours to cool. He only uses it once or twice a week because of that. It’s better to have a dedicated unit.
its working like a champ! still in the same spot, baking in the FL sun and ive been impressed. Keeps the temp right on the number for me. I keep it all on 24/7 but the chiller kicks off when reaching the temp
Hey David, I appreciate your info and content. My question is, I currently own the Ice Barrel 300, and I was looking at the Chiller made by the Pod Company. It runs $1197.00 and has filtration at 20ppm. The fittings are 1/2 inch, but I think we can add a fitting to address that. What are your thoughts?
@davidmausjr, hey David thanks for this video, it honestly came at the perfect moment. I am looking at purchasing the ICE Barrel 500, as soon as my wife approves of course. I had a question though. I see you used the 1/4 HP chiller and I was curious how that went. I am in Houston, Texas and our weather is very similar to Florida and I wanted to be sure to get the right one for the job. My barrel will be kept outside but under a patio awning, Im sure that'll make a small difference. Just curious what you would recommend. Can't wait 🥶
Love your content. I currently have the 400 hooked up to the penguin chiller. I want to upgrade to the 500 for insulation and am also considering changing chillers as I don’t like how noisy the penguin is. They even sent me foam to install inside, which I did and it’s still pretty noisy. Is this setup pretty quiet?
@@DavidMausJr Just installed my chiller setup on my 300 today. Followed this exact tutorial, step for step. Works great and saved a ton of space. Thanks again, sir!
Awesome! I think I will purchase the 1/4 as you mention and you did state you keep it outside. Do you cover it at all for rain or just leave it as is? Due to how you set it up is there any worry of electrocution if you are using a GFCI outlet? I ask since the pump is now external. Thank you!
David, i have the Ice Barrell 500 on order (thank you for the discount code). I should receive it later this week. I have most of the components already, except the Danner pump. I ordered it on Amazon almost 2 weeks ago (original delivery was supposed to be last Friday). It still hasn’t shipped and there seems there is a shortage. Is there another pump you would recommend using with the 500?
Hi, How cold does your ice barrell 500 get with the 1/4 hp chiller? And have you tested the 1/2 hp vs the 1/4 hp? I'm looking to get 37 degrees with the 1/4 hp chiller.
Super helpful thank you. Quick q - if my pump is submersible only (unlike yours which works external to the tub), how would this impact your setup? Ex: if I ended my exterior setup with the filter like yours, would water still flow in & out of the mesh filter?
How often and how much food grade hydrogen peroxide and ice barrel stabilizer do you use? I noticed you added just a small amount initially. Thanks for all the tips and advice.
This was super helpful. I have had the IceBarrel 500 for a couple months now (Sold my 400 because it would freeze in the winter in OH). I ended up getting the Eco+ 1.5HP because of another video I watched of yours and I got it for under $1500 shipped with tax (I got tired of buying and making ice). Sounds like this is probably way overkill. Waiting on a few more pieces to come in from Amazon but I did get the shut off valve. Edited, I realized I clicked on the wrong valve. Do you have a pic of the valve installed?
I am looking to have the pump, filter and chiller in another room that shares a wall with the ice bath. Would I be able to run about 24” of 3/4” pipe out of the bottom drain, run in thru that wall then hook up into the filter, pump and chiller? I am guessing it wouldn’t be a problem but I wasn’t sure if the pump works best directly attached.
Great job! Ordered IB500 after watching your videos/reviews. Started with 100-gallon Rubbermaid, 4 in 1 filter pump and making my own blocks of ice. Not sure if I will need a chiller during summer - Seattle region (to be determined). Would your setup without a chiller be beneficial to circulate and keep water clean for longer period of time (using Hydrogen peroxide and Ozone generator)? Thank you.
Are the fittings with your DIY relatively universal for other similar tubs with chiller fittings (i.e. redwood outdoors Alaskan cold plunge)? In other words, if I get your DIY package will it be appropriately sized for most other plunges? Thanks!
Yes that should work! The only thing you would have to adjust is the attachment to the barrel, i wouldnt suggest getting all 1/2" parts, just get a thread adapter. This will work: amzn.to/3VWD5Jr
Any idea how well that cooler last outside long term? I’m planning on doing this but I’m concerned how long that cooler will last. Maybe need to build a box to put it in to make sure it last as long as possible.
Will this work for the 300? Ice Barrel just informed me that my order for their chiller will be delayed until late May. They've had my money since January. They are offering a full refund and I am seriously considering it.
Check out the new Kit! DMJR.co/500DIYKit (it will also work better for the Ice Barrel 300)
Is the 300 as insolated as this one? Would the 1/4 HP be enough for that 300 build?
@@andrewclarke8036 It is very similar, but not as much. You may want to up to the 1/2 if you live in a really hot climate
David Thanks for the video. The area we live in I may need to unhook chiller and put in the garage for a couple of weeks in the winter, have you looked into using camlocks ?
also, is there any issue getting the 1/2" danner pump and using 1/2" tubing all around. I think my current chiller is 1/2"
Hey David, thanks for the video! Q: how’s the 1/4 HP holding up since? Would you recommend going up to the 1/2 HP?
Dave, what’s up with Ice Barrel? Communication is horrible. After watching this video I decided on the ice Barrel 500 and ordered it over a month ago and still haven’t received it. Do you have any direct communication with Ice Barrel?
Same here. I ordered the Ice Barrel 500 in June 2024 and I still don't have the product (9/9/24). Now I have to research and order another cold plunge from a different company. I must have sent Ice Barrel around 13 reminder emails. I've been in contact with Gillian and Payton, but they are way too slow in responding. I appreciate David promoting Ice Barrel, however, I would stay away and look for another company. Ice Barrel has the worst communication and now I need to get my money back. Such a waste of my time.
@trinihulk2454 Having the same issue. They took my money and it's been months. Terrible customer service. No communication.
David, you are a legend. This is such a straightforward DIY. Bonus points for the Amazon buy list.
Three things I would do differently 1. Use plumbers tape on all threaded connections. 2. - use plastic connectors vs brass or metal if possible. 3. Put a ball valve inline before the filter to allow clean out
I dont disagree! Couldnt find the pieces on amazon to do number 2. I totally misses number 3! I may add it when I do a full cleanout
Is there a disadvantage to using metal or brass connections?
@@jodyneffable - I like to know the same thing.
Why is plastic better?
@@Superstar-cl7we homogeneous materials. Better to keep like like
Ok....Barrel 500 is on the way and should be at my house next week...Can not wait! I had already purchased all the items in your description from Amazon and used your discount to get an additional $189 off the Barrel (thanks for that). I am setting up in my garage gym and will also need to make sure there are no leaks. Literally like a little kid on Christmas morning! Thanks again for all the great videos.
I appreciate this so much!! I’m doing this setup with the 300!! ( patiently waiting for it to ship) but in the meantime I’ve got the 1/4 horse active aqua going into a shitty cold pod and it’s holding temp at 42 f!! In salt lake with 100 degree weather!! Impressive
I ended up doing this DIY. I added another filter after the pump. it's working great. Thank you very much for creating this DIY video man. great stuff on here!
You created the video I was searching for thank you for the build, cant wait to get my set up completed !
Glad to help!
This was super useful for me as my first chiller just died on me and I have to redo my setup. The only thing I'd recommend adding is a shut off valve in between the T connector and the filter so you can clean/replace the filter without having the water drain out. Otherwise I'm following your instructions exactly 👍
I just wanted to say thank you for your extreme detail. Laying everything out in such a way that we can see it and understands how things are physically working is awesome. For me you took all the guesswork out of actually getting this done. Not sure if you have any idea of the cost to run a tub for a month, I know there are many variables (what tub, where...in sun out of sun...etc, how big of a pump and chiller, where you live such as Florida, in my case the ridiculous California)...but, any estimated range would be good to know. Thanks again for the info.
Thanks for the love and support! Surprisingly I have multiple tubs running 24/7 and dont see any major noticeable difference in my power bill. I could find a way to test it but with a family of 6 and the doors always open my bill was high before hooking these up and its about the same now :)
Perfect setup with pump just ordered thank you
Awesome set-up. I'm just getting to the point where I'm ready to get all the goodies ordered for the 500! Thanks again, David!! ✌️
Awesome!!
Loving my active aqua 1/2hp chiller paired with the 1000gph pump. Total game changer compared to my last chiller/pump combo. Hottest part of the day and it was only 2° away from set point of 45°. My last setup with the same tub would be 52-53° by about the same time.
Which barrel/tub are you using?
Your Channel is amazing and great help
Thank you for making all the helpful videos
Thank you!
Really awesome channel. Glad i stumbled on it. Very cool finding like minded people that make you better! Thanks!
Let’s go! God is good!
He sure is!
Insane timing for this video, I was just about to build this kit and was like why is dude talking about an eclipse, this must be old, ha!
Haha! Filmed during it today! 😂
Incredible build man. I thank God I’ve waited to pull the trigger on ice barrel until now. I’m going with the 500 and following this exact advice. Thanks!
How well did the 1/4 hp chiller end up working?? I live in a very hot climate and have the 500. I ve been doing weekly costco trips for ice but i am looking at getting a chiller at some point. Great video and walk through.
Like a charm! No issues at all and always right on my set temp
The danner is an excellent pump. Great choice. They do start to make a weird kind of clicking noise after several months of continuous use though.
Love the build! If I may suggest, in order to pump out the water faster put the T at the outlet side of the pump. With the spigot open then plug your inlet side (with the black male 3/4 plug that the 500 came with) from the inside and it will empty your 500 in no time. I did this with my over complicated build along with a garden hose and I water the plants and grass with the water.
Another tip is to get a threaded and barbed combo 3/4 for the inlet side to your hose connection to lower the profile and hug the barrel better.
Just my 2cents on your awesome channel. Love the content brother.
Incredible idea! Didnt even think of that. Thanks brother!!
I’m not sure I follow - the water would drain through the pump - or we would use the pump to increase drain rate?
Any way you can share some visuals of your set up @kingfish9677
Thank you for this video! I am going to run with this set up opposed to the other set up. You are the man! Hope you get to the 100 thousand subscribers soon!
I got my Ice Barrel 500 and did the exact setup except with all PVC connections. Thanks for all the info.
Thanks for this. Got the pieces needed and will be setting up this week. Appreciated the work you did to make it easy for us.
Glad to help!
I love that you video chat!! That’s awesome!!
It’s fun! Love helping people any chance I get!
Awesome video David! Appreicate you breaking everything down step by step and providing the part list. Very helpful! I'm new to the DIY cold plunge set up, and was hoping you, or anyone else on the thread could answer a couple questions for me.
Is it necessary to always keep the water pump running, or its it best to set the pump and cooler on a timer? Do you have to unplug the equipment before getting into the cold plunge (i.e. risk of electrical shock), since the pump and cooler are outside the unit? How loud would you say the Danner 950 water pump is when running?
Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Thanks man. I really appreciate the walkthrough on this one.
Just bought mine last week! Hopefully it comes soon! Perfect timing
Good choice!
Hi David. Super informative. I have my IB500 but have not bought the chiller yet. Question: what are the specs for a drain hose to connect to the spigot? My chiller is inside so will need to drain using a hose.
Another great tutorial. I have the OG IB400 set up more like your original build. I had issues with leaks and noise from the aqua pump, so set it up like your original build with the green filter sitting inside the barrel as well. I would much prefer to keep everything outside of the barrel so that I can move my arms and legs around without bumping anything but am going to enjoy the experience and leave it as is until I change the water. I love the insulation with this model though, so I'll have some thinking to do and may have to start putting a little money to the side for an “upgrade.” The 400 sweats quite a bit.
Not sure if you've seen DIY Cold Plunge but he put out a plan for adding another ozone and filtration set up. I have that going as well which really seems to be helping keep the water clean. I have it set on a timer for 30 minutes every night but based on what you mentioned, I might cut that back to maybe 15 minutes a night or every two or three nights.
Incredible timing - just found out my Ice Barrel 500 gets delivered in 1 week (after weeks of waiting) and was getting ready to pull the trigger on your previous setup! Love your videos, thank you so much for all the great content. Quick question - I live in Boston which means over the winter it's regularly below freezing. I plan to have an outdoor setup. Will I only be able to use this chiller in the warmer seasons (ie will it freeze outside?) Any advice for chiller for someone in my area who has to deal with freezing temps?
@sindsy82 My 500 says it was received in Ohio by FedEx on 4/12. Wonder how long it will take to get to Nevada.
I have the 1/4 hp and the daner 950. Just waiting for my IB 500.
I did build a ozone into my filter system. Just a preference after messing with water challenges in my last cold plunge. Excited to get it all set up
I've read that ozone can damage certain types of rubbers and plastics but I rarely see it discussed with cold plunges. Have you looked into this at all?
I did some research and there isn't any info that says ozone is a risk to cold plunges. It could be a risk to a chiller though so I have mine after the output of the chiller just to be safe. I will monitor and remove the ozone if it is ineffective or causing any erosion. It's a good call out. I am not 100% confident but there are lots of people who use them with no complaints.
@@jamieferrazano6897 ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/ozone-effects
Awesome! That topic is always tricky. Ozone works well, but its not needed all the time. That is why I jsut use an ozone generator when the water looks or smells like its getting bad and I run it for an hour. If i built on in i would probaby only run it for 15-30 mins in the middle of the night.
Thanks for all of this knowledge
Love the hose filter. I was thinking about that today. Ha I was very close to rerouting my water softener to the exterior to fill mine up.
Dave, have you heard of anyone using a small sand filter for the cold plunge? there are several brands that have a half horsepower pump and hold 50 pounds or less of sand better designed for above ground pools.
I have actually. That might be a cool option to try out
Thanks again for the info!!
Totally!!
What was the ozone generator you were talking about? Link please, TIA.
DMJR.co/cleaningkit
Have you ever tried adding epsom salts or anything like that to enhance the therapy benefits with the plunges? For the last month it was cold enough to still use my rubbermaid I started adding epsom and found it beneficial. See others in the r/coldplunge talking about putting dead sea salt in theirs.
People do it for sure! I havent really tried it in the cold plunge but might have to!
Thank you. Excellent setup. It’s warming up and it’s time put a chiller on my IB500. How often do you run the pump/chiller? Do you use a timer?
Cant wait to get one
Any issue putting the filter in front of the pump ? Can that damage pump pulling water
No issues at all! Works great!
Hey Dave, just bought mine. Have you looked into whether is possible to side mount the components on the side of the ice barrel 500 like the Desert Plunge does? Asking because I like how clean the cord management is as well as the addition of an automated ozone device.
You can totally do that! Just make sure you use a short 1/2” screw. Nothing longer should be needed
I see you’re pushing the 1/4 hp chiller. Tell me this, how long does it keep the water at the 3degree leeway before it kicks on? Does the chiller run once an hour for 15 or so minutes or does the insulation keep it cold to where the chiller runs once every two hours ?please and thank you
Excellent David! - thanks for making this. I'll most likely get this done for my Ice Barrel 300 - since i have mine in my garage, you're thinking the 25 HP is plenty right? I try to stay around 45 degrees - thanks
Totally!
Does this setup work on the 400 if you have the new conversion kit they sell you posted about
Thanks Dave!😊
I wouldn’t use a tee. I would just use a valve before the strainer to allow for strainer cleaning without draining barrel. I would also use pipe dope or teflon tape on each fitting.
I would also use a rubber hose washer on the barbed fitting coming off the pump. My setup is indoors and I needed it leak proof.
Solid ideas!
Can you share a picture of the valve and washer setup?
Great vid! Very informative and appreciate all the work you've put in. Side note: just me or the links not working?
Can I use this same setup for the plunge pop up tub ?
@davidmausjr thank you for all of your insight. I have procured the IB300. In some of your videos you show a connection to the 1HP AA chiller and in others you talk about going all the way down to a 1/4 HP. I plan to use my IB first thing in the morning so will have the chiller running the night before to get the water temp down. I am debating between the 1/2 HP and 1 HP AA. The setup will be outside in Texas. Thoughts on which one to go with?
With the insulation you’re good with the 1/2hp in my kit. DMJR.co/500diykit
The 1/4 HP chiller is taking time to cool it down... been stuck at 80 F for 3 hours. Im in North Texas
How long does it take you to chill your tub? I bought this exact tub and start to chill it and it drops 3 degrees in an hour and a half. What could I be doing wrong?
I’m having the same problem. Ran all night hasn’t changed temp yet
Do you run the pump and chiller 24/7?
David, just finished setting mine up using your video. AWEOME. Can you tell me how you use, and how often, the Hydrogen Perixide? The icebarrel Stabilize is self explanatory. Thanks a ton.
Awesome! Use a cup on first fill up and add a cap or two every week or as needed.
@@DavidMausJr can u clarify? Is it a cup or cap of the hydrogen peroxide?
Can you post a video of how loud it is? I'm
Considering putting it I doors. Thanks so much!
Do you leave your pump running all the time??
Yep! 24/7
Just finished the setup today! Used a 1HP chiller from Active Aqua… total overkill haha.
Big question: what smart devices do you use to turn everything on / off? I don’t really want the pump running 24/7 as this sits in a temp controlled garage. Any thoughts? Was thinking a simple timer but. Just don’t want to mess up the active aqua.
Sweet! You can totally use a timer 🤙🏽
Hey man great content I've been looking at quite a few of your reviews. Any noticeable difference on the electricity bill? Assuming your running 24/7. I know it varies based off where you live, but just wondering.
I have multiple running at all times and no noticeable difference in my bill
Hey David. Thought I'd ask since you've tried both ice up and IB. ive actually ordered a IB 500. but I was leaning towards the chiller Ice Up sells that has all in one. I imagine your DIY setup may be less expensive, but why didnt you just use your all in one chiller with the IB?
I have the IceUp chiller hooked up to that inflatable barrel. I have a few setups running 24/7 so people can come get cold with me.
@davidmausjr how are you ensuring the cords do not get wet? should i make sure the fill level is correct? is it okay for the cords to get wet from water overflow and rain outdoors i guess?
Yes they can get wet (assuming you’re using quality cords) just keep the plugs protected.
Hi David . I just moved and had to part with my troth I was using. I was wondering if there is an ice barrel you are not in need of or want to part with it. I live in Florida myself. Please let me know and God Bless 🙏🏼😊
Where do you live? Send me a message on IG @dmausjr
Can you have the ice barrel with chiller inside you home? I’ve seen people say they sweat some
Where do you attach the filter? or do you not use one and only rely on the strainer? really love this set up and looking to purchase, just curious on this filter decision. thanks
I show exactly how in the video but the way I have this is directly to the connections into the barrel and then the pump.
How did the 1/4 HP chiller work keeping it cold? Thanks man!
Working great!
I’ve missed a few videos. You used to insist on a 1HP chiller with 1” tubing. What’s changed? Is it because the insulated barrel doesn’t need the extra HP?
Thanks David, great information as always! Hey wondering if there is a way to add a hot water component to this setup to make it a cold/hot setup? Thanks again!
Totally a way to do that!
Any chance you might come out with a video… how to turn any ice plunge into a hot tub? 😃
@@jonmkeller Not a bad idea! :)
@@jonmkellermy wife’s boss has a chiller hooked up to his hot tub built into the pool. It’s not ideal nor cheap though and takes 24 hours to cool. He only uses it once or twice a week because of that. It’s better to have a dedicated unit.
do you have an update on how the 1/4 hp pump took to bring to temp in FL temps? how often do you run your pump?
its working like a champ! still in the same spot, baking in the FL sun and ive been impressed. Keeps the temp right on the number for me. I keep it all on 24/7 but the chiller kicks off when reaching the temp
I didn't see the drainage spigot linked in the amazon list. Can you kindly link to that?
It comes with the ice barrel 🤙🏽
Planning on DIY Barrel 500 soon, do you have a reco for a chiller+heat combo for the winter in New England?
Hey David, I appreciate your info and content. My question is, I currently own the Ice Barrel 300, and I was looking at the Chiller made by the Pod Company. It runs $1197.00 and has filtration at 20ppm. The fittings are 1/2 inch, but I think we can add a fitting to address that.
What are your thoughts?
Is there a reason you didn’t use ball valve so you can clean out filter without water leaking out?
I should have, its in the kit now but i didnt really think about it since mine are always outside.
@@DavidMausJr Where do you put the ball valve in the order? In between T and Filter?
If you were going to add a 5 micron filter, would you add it before or after the pump?
Before. You want to keep everything out of the pump
@davidmausjr, hey David thanks for this video, it honestly came at the perfect moment. I am looking at purchasing the ICE Barrel 500, as soon as my wife approves of course. I had a question though. I see you used the 1/4 HP chiller and I was curious how that went. I am in Houston, Texas and our weather is very similar to Florida and I wanted to be sure to get the right one for the job. My barrel will be kept outside but under a patio awning, Im sure that'll make a small difference. Just curious what you would recommend.
Can't wait 🥶
Love your content. I currently have the 400 hooked up to the penguin chiller. I want to upgrade to the 500 for insulation and am also considering changing chillers as I don’t like how noisy the penguin is. They even sent me foam to install inside, which I did and it’s still pretty noisy. Is this setup pretty quiet?
Have you noticed any other benefits from the Danner pump, versus the Hydrofarm (other than structural integrity)?
Nope. Just stronger and feels like a better quality plastic. Other than that it moves water
@@DavidMausJr Just installed my chiller setup on my 300 today. Followed this exact tutorial, step for step. Works great and saved a ton of space. Thanks again, sir!
Any idea how much electric the pump and chiller use with this set up on a daily basis after the initial cool down?
Pulls between 1-5 amps continuously
Awesome! I think I will purchase the 1/4 as you mention and you did state you keep it outside. Do you cover it at all for rain or just leave it as is? Due to how you set it up is there any worry of electrocution if you are using a GFCI outlet? I ask since the pump is now external. Thank you!
I seemingly am having to wash the filter daily. Is this common. Would you recommend anything different?
That does seem odd, where is the plunge at? what is clogging it?
Great video. Always use plumbers tape. It''s cheap and easy to use. There no reason not to use it to make sure those connections do not leak.
good call!
David, i have the Ice Barrell 500 on order (thank you for the discount code). I should receive it later this week. I have most of the components already, except the Danner pump. I ordered it on Amazon almost 2 weeks ago (original delivery was supposed to be last Friday). It still hasn’t shipped and there seems there is a shortage. Is there another pump you would recommend using with the 500?
Do you just keep the pump plugged in and running 24/7?
Yep!
Love the channel, hi here in Australia it gets pretty hot in summer, would I need 1/4 hp or a 1/2 hp chiller to cool a 300 litre cold plunge
Hi, How cold does your ice barrell 500 get with the 1/4 hp chiller? And have you tested the 1/2 hp vs the 1/4 hp? I'm looking to get 37 degrees with the 1/4 hp chiller.
It got me to 39 with no problems, I didnt hack mine to get it to 37 but people do. To me, 40 is cold enough :)
Sorry first timer here. Do some chillers come with filter and pump integrated?
For ozone, would you drill a hole, or, world you find a clever t-joint, etc, to plumb it in?
T joint and plumb it out just get an ozone generator and use when needed.
Did you end up plumbing the T Joint? I'm curious to find some videos of people adding ozone to their IB 500
Which Danner pump? I see two on your Amazon list
950 or up
Super helpful thank you. Quick q - if my pump is submersible only (unlike yours which works external to the tub), how would this impact your setup? Ex: if I ended my exterior setup with the filter like yours, would water still flow in & out of the mesh filter?
How often and how much food grade hydrogen peroxide and ice barrel stabilizer do you use? I noticed you added just a small amount initially. Thanks for all the tips and advice.
I start with a cup of H202 and a few (5) drops of stabilizer
Thank you!
The silver shutoff you recommended is too restrictive, please swap it out for a full port valve to improve the flow of water.
Good call
Where in the setup would this shut off go?
@@bigt160right before the mesh strainer pre-filter.
Do you have a recommendation for a better one?
@@roachgr anything full port, I use a brass 3-way valve to also act as a lower side drain (optional garden hose) without disconnecting anything.
the full value handle hits the filter any ideas for a pipe between the filter and valve?
I guess I could put it at the barrel connection before the T valve so that the handle is not an issue.
This was super helpful. I have had the IceBarrel 500 for a couple months now (Sold my 400 because it would freeze in the winter in OH). I ended up getting the Eco+ 1.5HP because of another video I watched of yours and I got it for under $1500 shipped with tax (I got tired of buying and making ice). Sounds like this is probably way overkill. Waiting on a few more pieces to come in from Amazon but I did get the shut off valve. Edited, I realized I clicked on the wrong valve. Do you have a pic of the valve installed?
I am looking to have the pump, filter and chiller in another room that shares a wall with the ice bath. Would I be able to run about 24” of 3/4” pipe out of the bottom drain, run in thru that wall then hook up into the filter, pump and chiller?
I am guessing it wouldn’t be a problem but I wasn’t sure if the pump works best directly attached.
Can I use the active aqua on the ice up industry plunge ? And if so what size tubing and attachments will work ?
I’m sure you can, I just need to take a better look at the Ice Up tub fittings.
Let me know when you can i appreciate it! Thanks
Was the 1/4 hp chiller enough to cool the water and maintain temperature efficiently?
Great job! Ordered IB500 after watching your videos/reviews. Started with 100-gallon Rubbermaid, 4 in 1 filter pump and making my own blocks of ice. Not sure if I will need a chiller during summer - Seattle region (to be determined). Would your setup without a chiller be beneficial to circulate and keep water clean for longer period of time (using Hydrogen peroxide and Ozone generator)? Thank you.
I'm confused; doesn't the Active Aqua Water Chiller have a pump inside? If so, an extra pump for extra water flow?
Do you have any recommendations on how to get the air out of the filter in this setup? I don't know how to get it out.
Thank you sooooo much for this video!!!! Now if my IB500 would ever show up I can do this lol
I got you!! Its coming soon! I can feeeeel it :)
How long ago did you order it? I ordered mine on 3/23/24 and it still says processing.
@@ekarovic2694 where do you track your order?
@@ekarovic2694 3/19 🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️. I have the nurecover that I’m using daily but it’s a real pain the rotate that much ice everyday lol
Are the fittings with your DIY relatively universal for other similar tubs with chiller fittings (i.e. redwood outdoors Alaskan cold plunge)? In other words, if I get your DIY package will it be appropriately sized for most other plunges?
Thanks!
Looks like the Redwood Outdoor has a .50 instead of the ice barrel 3/4… do I just update every male- female bard/fitting to .50 or just the barb?
Yes that should work! The only thing you would have to adjust is the attachment to the barrel, i wouldnt suggest getting all 1/2" parts, just get a thread adapter. This will work: amzn.to/3VWD5Jr
Thank you 🤙🏼
Any idea how well that cooler last outside long term? I’m planning on doing this but I’m concerned how long that cooler will last. Maybe need to build a box to put it in to make sure it last as long as possible.
Will this work for the 300? Ice Barrel just informed me that my order for their chiller will be delayed until late May. They've had my money since January. They are offering a full refund and I am seriously considering it.
This will work with the 300 too!
I know I’m equally sad about the delay