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Active Aqua 1/4 HP Water Chiller for Cold Plunge Ice Baths

Active Aqua 1/4 HP Water Chiller for Cold Plunge Ice Baths

Regular price $629.95 USD
Sale price $629.95 USD Regular price $799.95 USD

Building a compact cold plunge and don't want to pay for more chiller than you need? The Active Aqua 1/4 HP is the right-sized workhorse for smaller setups: barrel builds, chest freezer conversions, and tubs in the 40 to 92 gallon range. You get the same pure titanium evaporator, digital temperature control with a 39°F set point, and Boost mode as the larger units, in a smaller footprint that draws just 460 watts. As an authorized Active Aqua dealer, every unit ships from our Dallas, TX warehouse and is backed by the Plunge Crafters Guarantee.

Note: This unit is approved for indoor and covered outdoor use only (garage, basement, indoor gym, or covered patio). Requires an external water pump, sold separately. See our Danner water pumps.

PRODUCT DETAILS

  • Power Boost mode with two options: 2-hour accelerated chilling or continuous 24/7 maximum chilling
  • Pure titanium evaporator: anti-corrosive and compatible with both fresh and salt water systems
  • Digital temperature control with set point adjustable from 39°F to 90°F, with automatic start/stop at your target temp
  • Rated for reservoirs from 40 to 92 gallons: ideal for barrel plunges, chest freezer builds, and compact tubs
  • 1/2" and 3/4" barbed fittings included: connects to our DIY Cold Plunge Quick Connect Kit and standard DIY plumbing
  • Compressor protection function automatically shuts off the circuit to protect the unit
  • 1-year manufacturer's warranty, backed by the Plunge Crafters Guarantee

PRODUCT SPECS

  • Flow rate requirement: 396 to 950 GPH (external pump with pre-filter required, sold separately)
  • Cooling capacity: 3,010 BTU per hour
  • Power: 120V standard US plug / 460W / 4.7A
  • Max working pressure: 10 PSI
  • Unit dimensions: 18.2" L x 13" W x 17.3" H
  • Weight: 48.5 lbs
  • ETL listed

SHIPPING & DELIVERY

We strive to process and ship all orders received before 3PM CST the day the order was received. Orders received after 3PM CST will be shipped the next business day. You will receive an email notification with tracking information once your order has been shipped.

Check out our Shipping Policy for additional details.

MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

We stand behind the quality and performance of every Plunge Crafters product. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied within 30 days of delivery, simply contact our support team to return the product in its original condition and packaging. We’ll issue a full refund—no questions asked.

How it works:

  • Submit your return request within 30 calendar days of receiving your order.
  • Return the unused product in its original packaging.
  • Once received and inspected, your refund will be processed within 5–7 business days.
  • Free Shipping
  • 1-Year Warranty
  • US Support

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Active Aqua 1/4 HP Water Chiller for Cold Plunge Ice Baths
  • Free Shipping
  • 1-Year Warranty
  • US Support

$629.95$799.95

4 interest-free installments, or from $157.48/mon with  Save up to 21% by paying with FSA/HSA

BEST COLD
PLUNGE CHILLER

Thousands of Happy Plungers and Counting

Thousands of recovery sessions, countless trips for ice avoided - and the verdict is in: Active Aqua Cold Plunge Chiller is being called the “best chiller on the market.” Don’t just take our word for it. See how real customers are transforming their routines, pushing past limits and feeling better every single day.

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BENEFITS OF COLD PLUNGING

Revitalize Your Body & Mind with Proven Cold Therapy Benefits

Need help with this purchase?

Our cold plunge experts are ready to help - available daily Monday - Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM CST.

COMPARE & SEE WHY PLUNGE CRAFTERS WINS

NOT ALL COLD PLUNGES ARE MADE THE SAME

Other Cold Plunges
Standard Spa Chillers
DURABILITY YOU CAN TRUST
Military-grade engineering
Plastic/low-grade materials
Prone to wear & leaks
SETUP IN MINUTES
Ready in 5-10 mins, minimal setup required
Complicated Setup
Often requires technician
INDOOR & COVERED OUTDOOR USE
Rugged design
Indoor Use Only
Not weatherproof
CUSTOMER SUPPORT THAT CARES
US-based, fast response
Limited or slow
Long wait times
FULL WARRANTY COVERAGE
12-month comprehensive warranty
Not available
Repairs often not covered
MONEY BACK GUARANTEE
Try risk-free for 30 days
Not available
Repairs often not covered
EASY RETURNS & FAST SHIPPING
Ships fast from our Dallas TX warehouse
No returns of trials
No refunds or slow logistics

Not sure which chiller?

Find the right chiller in 60 seconds

Answer five quick questions about your tub and climate. We will match the chiller, the plumbing and the add-ons, then put it all in your cart.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is the Active Aqua chiller good for cold plunges?

Yes! The Active Aqua 1/4 HP is one of the most widely used chillers in the DIY cold plunge community, valued for its reliability and simple digital controls. It has been a staple of stock tank and DIY tub builds for years, long before purpose-built cold plunge chillers existed. Plunge Crafters is an authorized Active Aqua dealer, so every unit ships new with the full manufacturer warranty.

How cold does the Active Aqua 1/4 HP chiller get?

The digital set point adjusts from 39°F to 90°F, so you can dial in anything from deep cold therapy at 39°F to a milder recovery temperature. Once your water reaches the set point, the chiller cycles on and off automatically to hold it within a couple of degrees. Keep in mind your tub size, insulation, ambient temp and humidity have a big impact on how cold you can get and how fast it gets there. An uninsulated tub in temps greater than 90°F will struggle more than an insulated tub.

What size cold plunge tub does the 1/4 HP Active Aqua chiller support?

It is rated for tubs from 40 to 92 gallons. Running a larger tub in the 90 to 172 gallon range? The Active Aqua 1/2 HP would be a better match.

Can I use the Active Aqua 1/4 HP chiller outdoors?

No. This model is approved for indoor or outdoor covered and out of the elements use only, which makes it ideal for garage, basement, indoor gym or covered patio cold plunge setups. If your plunge lives outside, choose an outdoor rated chiller instead: the Active Aqua 1/3 HP All in One has a rainproof housing and a GFCI protected power cord and is built for the elements. Shop all cold plunge chillers.



Does the Active Aqua chiller come with a water pump?

No. This chiller requires an external water pump rated between 396 and 950 GPH, sold separately. We recommend the Danner 950, which is sized correctly for this chiller and built for continuous duty.

What is the Boost function on the Active Aqua chiller?

Boost runs the chiller at maximum output to accelerate cooling, and it has two modes. Press Boost once for a 2-hour accelerated cycle, useful right after you fill the tub or do a water change. Press it twice for continuous 24/7 maximum chilling, which runs until you switch it off. Once your water is at temperature, you can leave the chiller in normal mode and it cycles automatically to hold the set point.

Does this Active Aqua chiller filter the water?

Not on its own. The chiller does not include built-in filtration. For clean, clear water between changes, add a cold plunge water filter and ozone sanitation to your cold plunge plumbing. Browse our water filtration and sanitation collection for options that fit standard 3/4" DIY plumbing.

What are the electrical requirements?

The Active Aqua 1/4 HP ice bath chiller runs on a standard 120V household power with a regular 3-prong plug, drawing 460W and 4.7 amps during operation. No dedicated circuit is required for most home setups. As with any equipment used near water, plug into a GFCI protected outlet, and use a properly rated outlet rather than an undersized extension cord.

What fittings are included with the Active Aqua chiller?

The chiller ships with 1/2" and 3/4" barbed fittings with sealing gaskets, plus gear style hose clamps. That means it connects directly to the 3/4" plumbing used in most DIY cold plunge builds, including our DIY Cold Plunge Quick Connect Kit for stock tanks.

How much space does the ice bath chiller need around it?

Install it upright on a stable, level surface with at least 12 inches of clearance on all sides, including the back and top, so it can pull in air and dissipate heat. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from high humidity and high heat sources. Never cover the unit or run it on its side. If it does get tipped, stand it upright and wait 20 minutes before powering it on to let the refrigerant settle.

Will the chiller remember my settings after a power outage?

Yes. The Active Aqua has a memory backup feature, so after an unexpected power loss it returns to your previous temperature setting automatically instead of resetting to the default.

Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay for an Active Aqua water chiller?

Yes. Plunge Crafters partners with Truemed to make cold plunge purchases eligible for HSA and FSA funds. This allows you to pay with pre-tax dollars, which effectively reduces your out-of-pocket cost by 20 to 35% depending on your tax bracket. To use your HSA or FSA card, select the Truemed payment option at checkout. You will complete a short eligibility process through Truemed and then apply your HSA or FSA funds directly to your order. If you have questions about eligibility, visit our HSA/FSA program page for full details.

How does the 30-day return process work?

If you are not satisfied within 30 days of delivery, contact our support team at info@plungecrafters.com to initiate a return. Return the product unused in its original packaging and we will issue a full refund once the item is received and inspected. Refunds are processed within 5 to 7 business days of receiving the return. Our support team is available seven days a week from 7 AM to 8 PM CST to walk you through the process if needed.

Have additional questions?

We would be glad to help answer any other questions you may have. Reach out via chat or our Contact Us page.

  • 5 stars: 44 (98%)
  • 4 stars: 1 (2%)
  • 3 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 2 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 1 star: 0 (0%)
This product has no reviews of its own. The merchant grouped it with related products, so the reviews shown are from across that group.
D
Dylan A
Couldn't be happier@

Very affordable and high quality chiller. Chilled my 250 gallon tub from 70 to 48 in about an hour south boost mode!

M
Mark Van Arsdale
Black / Chiller Only
So far so good Great product Keep the water

So far so good
Great product
Keep the water nice and cold in my Rubbermaid 150 gal

J
Jake Kissel
Great tub- came promptly

Great tub- came promptly, was easy to set up, and works great! Super cold-like, painfully cold if that’s what you’re into (that’s what I’m into, literally)! Company is eager to help, support, answer questions.
It is important to let it sit 24hrs after setup, to allow air to work its way out of the system.
Highly recommend

R
Robert Beardsley
IMO they delivered everything quickly

IMO they delivered everything quickly, and exactly as described by them. Easy, used it the same day I got it!

E
Edward Ham
Black / Chiller Only
Much better than my previous chiller

Much better than my previous chiller.Runs quieter, more efficiently, filtration is impressive, and the quick connection makes installation super easy. This is the best chiller at this price point on the market!

C
Cole Sweetser
Tub Only
Amazing!!

Amazing!! This tub was easy to set up and doesn’t take much space.

C
Cole Sweetser
Black / Chiller Only
This set up is great!!

This set up is great. Was very easy to install and I was up and running in less than an hour

L
Larry Engle
Keeping the water at 44 degrees when its 104 degrees in Sacramento need i say more

Keeping the water at 44 degrees when its 104 degrees in Sacramento need i say more.

L
Larry Engle
Top Quality

To begin, I was impressed with the customer service from day one, specifically when I spoke with a representative on the phone who promptly addressed and corrected the issue with the small pump being installed backwards. The hoses are of superior quality, unlike the inferior materials found in cheaper models, making this a worthwhile investment for those seeking durability and reliability.

A
Anonymous
Black / Chiller Only
Good quality and responsive nice people

Good quality and responsive nice people.

C
Cheryl
Total game changer!

Total game changer! I absolutely love this tub from Plunge Crafters! From the sleek design to the quality craftsmanship, everything about this tub feels premium. It's super easy to set up, retains cold temps like a champ, and has totally become my go-to recovery ritual.

After just a few weeks of using it consistently, I've noticed real improvements in my energy levels, mood, and muscle recovery.

Highly recommend to anyone looking to add a serious wellness boost to their routine. Plunge Crafters knocked it out of the park with this one!

M
Matthew
Saved $500!!!

Called Plunge Crafters with a question about a product I purchased. Spoke to an actual person, Nathan, who was exceptionally helpful and even helped me save over $500 by purchasing a new chiller through them vs the competition

A
Amber
Portable, Easy to Set Up, and Perfect for Cold Plunging!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This inflatable cold plunge tub is incredible! Not only is it durable and effective, but it’s also portable, which means I can take it anywhere—whether I’m at home or traveling, It comes with a bag to transport!

Setup was a breeze. It took me just a few minutes to inflate and fill, and I was ready to enjoy a refreshing cold plunge. The materials are high-quality and hold up great even with frequent use.

If you’re looking for a convenient and versatile cold plunge solution, this is it. Highly recommend it for anyone wanting to make cold therapy a part of their lifestyle, no matter where they are!

Once you order it also gets to you super quick! The order went out the next day and I received the product in a few days! 😍

A
Amber
Outstanding Chiller

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I’m beyond impressed with this cold plunge chiller! Not only does it deliver ice-cold water for the perfect plunge, but the quality and performance are top-notch. It chills the water quickly and maintains the perfect temperature with ease, making every session refreshing and rejuvenating.

What really stood out was how fast it shipped—I received it in just a few days! The setup instructions were clear, and the unit was up and running in no time. Best purchase!

J
Jason Shelton
Excellent Service and Solid Product

Ordered my chiller from Plunge Crafters on a Thursday and had it at my door by Saturday—can’t beat that kind of shipping speed. I set everything up on Sunday and thought I was having technical issues. I called the number that afternoon and was surprised when Nathan, the owner, answered the phone himself.

I explained what was going on, sent over a few photos and videos, and we exchanged several emails—on a Sunday. He wasn’t totally sure what the issue was, so he planned to reach out to the manufacturer and get back to me the next day.

As luck would have it, I found out they were located only about 30 minutes from me here in Texas (love supporting local when I can). I asked if I could bring the unit by and swap it out. Without hesitation, Nathan said yes.

Here’s where it gets good: I show up at their warehouse ready to exchange the unit, and Nathan already has a new one set up and running. He walks me through the setup, and pretty quickly I realize—turns out the issue wasn’t the unit… it was operator error. Once I mimicked the proper setup with my own unit, it worked perfectly.

I spent a few minutes chatting with Nathan and his wife—great people—then took my unit home. Got everything reconnected, fired it up, and boom, ice-cold water ready to go. Took my first plunge the next morning and couldn’t be happier.

The chiller looks great, works exactly as it should, and has no leaks or problems whatsoever. But what really stood out was the customer service—from the handwritten thank-you note on the receipt to the personal support on a weekend, to the flexibility and professionalism during the exchange process. I’ve been complaining for a while about how rare good service is these days, and this was hands-down the best I’ve experienced in a long time.

If you’re looking for a cold plunge chiller, I can confidently say you won’t go wrong with Plunge Crafters. Great product. Even better people.

W
Warren Hoover
This is the chiller setup I was hoping to find. Plunge Crafters nailed it!

I looked at a ton of chillers before finding these guys. Most were overpriced, confusing, or looked like a DIY nightmare.

Then I found Plunge Crafters. Straight up, this setup is awesome.

The ½ HP chiller handles Texas heat with no problem.
The filter is separate from the unit, so it’s easy to access and clean.
The hoses come wrapped in insulation.
It comes with a strong pump.
The clamps are plug and go. I set it up in minutes.

It’s simple, it works, and it doesn’t cost a fortune.

I already had a tub, but if I had to do it again, I’d buy everything from them.

I even visited their warehouse. It’s a great setup, and you can tell they care.

If you’re on the fence, stop overthinking it. These guys are legit.

G
George K
Active 1hp chiller & water pump install kit

I purchased the Active 1hp chiller, Plunge Gen 1 water pump kit and Ozone Generator. Nathan and his crew were outstanding! Product showed up with 2 days. I had some questions on the water pump install and again Nathan helped me out and called back right away. Super easy to do business with them. I saved a ton of money and extended the life of my cold plunge for at least 5 years! Definitely recommend these guys. Great value!

J
Jefferson silver
Black / Chiller Only
Keeps water super cold and the filter keeps it nice and clean

Keeps water super cold and the filter keeps it nice and clean. Awesome set up!

J
Jeffrey Tew
Black / Chiller Only
very impressive machinery

very impressive machinery, well worth the $$$. 3rd times the charm, I tried 2 other chillers before this one and they were total garbage from the start never worked. the Chiller pro is performing like a champ it cools at an average of 5 degrees per hour. I purchased this machine for the health benefits, and I'm deeply impressed with this company's products. I only wish I could have purchased the tub along with the chiller, but price was out of my range so had to go with something cheaper less insulated and sturdy. I would give them a sixth star if I could.

A
Adam Reale
Black / Chiller Only
First chiller for me

I got the 1/3 hp and it seems to be doing well enough for my 100 gallon Rubbermaid tank. Setup thru the app was easy enough and I can control the chiller on/off/set temps/ thru my phone. It’s only been a few days in use. I will say this company, Plunge Crafters has been excellent to deal with. I just came across them while searching for plumbing kits and I liked the company’s customer service so much that I bought my chiller thru them as well. Thanks Nathan and Kristin!

A
Anonymous
White / Chiller Only
Highly recommended

I'm really happy with this purchase. This kit makes for such an easy setup because all the tubing, connectors, insulation, spares, and fittings to fit various tubs is included. No planning or trips to the hardware store necessary. The hoses come pre-assembled and labeled, the instructions are clear, and I was up and running quickly. Ease of use is great. Just flip the power switch, or plug it in to a simple timer, and everything turns on.

B
B.I.
Got the whole shabang

Aries tub, 1/2 HP chiller, pump and Ozone cleaning system. Couldn’t be happier with this system, upgraded from my DIY version. Probably spent less money overall compared with what I had been patching together over the past couple of years. Much more aesthetic, efficient, effective, and quiet. Should have done it sooner. Customer service is top-notch every time I have made a purchase.

D
Dave Anderson
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE EVER. No one comes close!

Nathan and Kristin at Plunge Crafters are quite simply the best customer service providers I have EVER experienced. Every issue and question I had from purchase to installation were handled superbly well! I am recommending Plunge Crafters to everyone I know. We use the plunge pool every day and it makes a monumental difference in our day. Thank you!!!!

WHICH TUB IS BEST FOR YOU?

Aries Plunge Tub

Outside Tub Dimensions
Top

60" Long x 35" Wide x 30" Deep
Bottom

50.5" Long x 29" Wide x 30" Deep

Inside Tub Dimensions

Top:

56" Long x 30" Wide x 30" Deep
Bottom:

45" Long x 24.5" Wide x 30" Deep

Water Capacity
80 - 90 gallons

Build
Military-grade drop stich composite, high flow port technology

Use Case
Need smaller footprint, fits up to 6' tall

Recommended Chiller
Pro Chiller 1/3HP and above

Aries XL Cold Plunge

Outside Tub Dimensions
Top

67.5" Long x 42" Wide x 30" Deep
Bottom

63" Long x 34.5" Wide x 30" Deep

Inside Tub Dimensions

Top:

61" Long x 34.5" Wide x 30" Deep
Bottom:

57" Long x 28.5" Wide x 30" Deep

Water Capacity
130 gallons

Build
Military-grade drop stich composite, high flow port technology

Use Case
Wider Shoulders & 6'+ tall users

Recommended Chiller
Pro Chiller 1/2HP and above

Gemini Cold Plunge Tub

Outside Tub Dimensions
Top

68.5" Long x 42" Wide x 30" Deep
Bottom

57" Long x 32.5" Wide x 30" Deep

Inside Tub Dimensions

Top:

62" Long x 35" Wide x 30" Deep
Bottom:

51" Long x 27" Wide x 30" Deep

Water Capacity
115–120 gallons

Build
Military-grade drop stich composite, high flow port technology

Use Case
Plunge either direction or with two people

Recommended Chiller
Pro Chiller 1/2HP and above