Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro Review (2023): A Luxurious Setup for an Uncomfortable Activity

It’s safe to say that cold water immersion is red hot in fitness, with many athletes celebrating how cold plunge tubs can benefit muscle recovery, energy stores, general wellness, and mental health. (1) One of the best cold plunge tubs is the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro. This impressive ice bath tub is powered by an 80-pound chiller that can cool your daily dips down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

We’ve previously tested an older version of this cold plunge — along with over 12 other ice baths — and after looking at both silhouettes, feel good about offering our opinion in this Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro review. We’re big fans of this posh profile for its numbingly cool temperature range, integrated ice generator, cozy headrest, and durable exterior rated for both indoor and outdoor use. But all this luxe comes with a sizable footprint — and even heftier price tag. While not for every budget, this is a premium cold plunge worth considering if you want a top-of-the-line home setup.

Main Takeaways

• Capable of reaching temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit, this is one of the coldest plunges we’ve encountered. Other plunges typically fall between 37 degrees and 39 degrees Fahrenheit.
• This cold plunge is a “plug and plunge” model, requiring just a standard 110V outlet.
• The Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is one of the most expensive units in the category at nearly $8,900. Comparable plunges typically cost between $5,000 and $7,000.

Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro Specs

• Price: $8,899
• Product Dimensions: 78.74” L x 34” W x 33.46” H
• Product Weight: 345lbs
• Temperature Range: 32-48º F
• Water Capacity: 150gal
• Electrical Requirements: 110V

The Cold Plunge Pro from Sun Home has a “plug and plunge” design with an internal ice generator that can reach water temperatures between 32 degrees and 48 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The guts of this at-home cold plunge also house an advanced ozone injection sanitization system, UV sanitation chamber, and 20-micron filtration system to keep your water clean and sanitized day in and day out. Additionally, you can use this cold plunge in both indoor and outdoor settings thanks to a stainless steel makeup that helps prevent corrosion and maintain optimal temps.

We also appreciate how Sun Home’s forged wheels come built into the base of this ice bath. They make getting the tub into position much easier, especially when you account for the profile’s massive 345-pound weight, a typical measurement for all-encompassing cold plunge tubs. 

The wheels can also help when trying to keep the tub in a shaded area, which the brand recommends to enhance cooling efficiency and increase the longevity of the unit. In previous models of the Cold Plunge Pro — which we’ve also tested — moving the device was a multi-person job. “You will need furniture dollies to roll this around because it is not going anywhere,” our tester added in reference to moving the older model.

Speaking of its predecessor, this current version expands the length of the tub to 74 inches long. That’s an increase of 14 inches over past models. This lengthier footprint makes the Cold Plunge Pro a great option for taller athletes that require the extra leg room. According to the brand, the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro can accommodate those up to 6’7” in height.

Of course, all of this innovation and attention to detail results in a price tag much steeper than other cold plunge tubs available today. The Cold Plunge Pro costs $8,899, which is thousands more than tubs of similar size. You’d expect it to support hot water immersion at this price point, but the unit sadly can’t pull double duty as a hot tub. We reviewed other ice baths, like the Polar Monkeys Brainpod, that boast hot and cold capabilities for less than $4,600 — nearly 50 percent lower than the cost of this Sun Home profile.

Pros

• This ice bath can reach temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit — the lowest we’ve seen in the category. 
• The stainless steel makeup helps retain water temperatures better than tubs made of hard plastic or acrylic.
• The wheeled base can make it easier to move this unit into and out of position.
• A built-in headrest and roomy interior add a bit of comfort during plunges.

Cons

• At nearly $8,900, this ice bath tub is one of the most expensive on the market.
• There is no option for hot water immersion like other tubs at similar price points.
• If you live in an area that can reach temperatures near 32 degrees Fahrenheit, you’ll need to drain the tub or store it indoors to prevent freezing and subsequent damage.

Using the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro

Admittedly, our time with the revamped Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is limited, but we’ve had a good bit of hands-on experience with the previous iteration of this feature-rich ice bath. After comparing the specs of each silhouette, we feel the differences are noticeable, but the components and performance are generally the same (in a good way).

From setup to plunging, maintenance, and beyond, we made a plethora of positive notes (as well as a handful of negatives) when giving this cold plunge a fair shake. Read below to get a detailed picture of how we chilled out (pun intended) with this luxury profile.

Design and Overall Aesthetics

The Cold Plunge Pro is delivered curbside in a massive crate, which requires a screwdriver or hammer to pry open. Unlike our past experiences with this ice bath tub, we were pleased with how simple the forged wheels made the setup. 

Our tester, when referencing the previous model, said it took three associates to move it into position, adding that the unit’s weight made moving it to upper levels a near-impossible task. “Unless you have access to a freight elevator, I would not recommend transporting this ice bath anywhere else besides ground level,” they said.

You’ll still need to give a good amount of effort, as the 345-pound frame makes for a challenging sled push, but the wheels do a lot to lighten the load.

We also appreciate how the Cold Plunge Pro’s major components are packaged in a single silhouette. Other cold plunges using a chiller for temperature maintenance have off-unit motors that require additional plumbing and extra floor space. With this cold plunge, however, you just need to be within cord’s reach of a standard 110-volt receptacle.

Once the tub was filled for its maiden plunge, we let the powerful one-horsepower chiller cool the water to our desired temp. In operation, this component wasn’t too loud or overbearing, with our tester comparing the hum to that of a standard window unit air conditioner. Additionally, they noticed no electrical mishaps or dimming lights. If you can, though, it’s always a good idea to keep larger appliances to a dedicated circuit, according to the National Electrical Code. (2)

We also spent time going over the design and aesthetics while waiting for the temperature to fall (which took roughly four hours in total). “I like the look of this rig,” noted our one tester. “The military-grade metal exterior gives it a rugged design, and the black coating and clean edges make the whole profile stand out.” Plus, the UV coating can help the tub maintain its cold temperatures and structural integrity when stored outdoors, whereas other cold plunges that use a hard plastic or acrylic material may begin to warp over time.

Temperature Control

It’s hard to talk about the Cold Plunge Pro without discussing its temperature range. This system is capable of chilling your water to literal freezing levels of 32 degrees Fahrenheit, with a maximum setting of 48 degrees. This is the lowest range we’ve seen in a cold plunge, as other chiller-powered tubs typically clock in between 37 degrees and 39 degrees. Additionally, we enjoyed how quickly the Cold Plunge Pro could reach our set temps, requiring about an hour to warm up or cool down.

As impressive as its cooling power is, though, one feature is surprisingly missing from the build: hot water immersion. Like cold plunging, exposing your body to hot water has been shown to help expedite post-workout recovery with soothing heat to ease muscle soreness. (3) Other high-quality cold plunges, including the Sun Home’s Cold Plunge Standard, offer both in a single silhouette — and at lower costs than this Pro offering.

It’s a unique omittance, in our opinion, as the brand is also known for making some of the best home saunas. Also, the unit’s 80-pound chiller — the driving mechanism that allows for cooling and heating — is powerful enough for near-freezing temps. There’s still a lot that makes this cold plunge worth its price tag, but having the ability to soak in both cold and hot water would really give athletes their money’s worth.

Internal Space and Comfort

Submerging your body in near-freezing waters is uncomfortable enough without having to squeeze yourself into tight quarters. Thankfully, we were able to sprawl out inside the Cold Plunge Pro with room to spare.

We attributed this roominess to the expanded dimensions of the Cold Plunge Pro, namely its 78-inch tub length. The brand states this design is capable of housing athletes up to 6’7” tall, and while our testers weren’t that lanky, we do agree with these listed metrics. For reference, the previous Sun Home model measured just 64 inches long.

We do recommend having a step stool handy to actually get into the Cold Plunge Pro, though — the near-34-inch height can be challenging to step over for some.

Additionally, we appreciated the headrest at the top of this tub, which allowed us to recline during our soaks. This was especially beneficial once our bodies got accustomed to cold water immersion and reached a calmer state. Due to the heightened sense of comfort, it was easier to shut our eyes and focus on our breathing and thoughts.

Cleanliness and Water Filtration

Thanks to the Cold Plunge Pro’s multifaceted approach to disinfection, we never worried about the status of the water while testing. Outside of the insulated lid that helps keep debris out of the tank, this ice bath also features an advanced ozone sanitization system, UV sanitation chamber, 20-micron filter, and circulation pump for optimal water quality.

We’ve tested other chiller-powered cold plunges that utilize water circulation and filtration for maintaining cleanliness, and we think this Sun Home model has the most overbuilt setup of the lot. Its system makes the tub much more sanitary than chiller-less ice barrels, which routinely need to be drained to purge stagnant water. Sure, the Cold Plunge Pro recommends filling your tub with fresh water once every two months, but that’s much easier to manage than tanks that require monthly or biweekly draining.

Maintenance

When looking through the customer reviews for this Cold Plunge Pro, we found that many users highlighted the minimal maintenance required to keep it running in tip-top shape. After testing it, we agree with this sentiment. There’s no filling the tub with extra ice or priming the system. Just toggle to your temp, clean the filters when necessary, and plunge away. 

That said, we’d be remiss not to mention some key timeframes to consider when thinking about the upkeep of this premium cold plunge. Naturally, you’ll need to change out the water from time to time — every two months is Sun Home’s recommendation. When emptying the tank, you’ll also want to scrub the interior, especially if you’ve been keeping the unit outdoors for extended periods.

The brand also suggests cleaning the micron filter on a bi-weekly basis in an effort to limit the amount of dirt and particle buildup across this component. To ensure you’re not bringing excess grime into the water, we recommend showering before slipping in. As tempting as it may be to hop into those icy waters after work or post-workout, it’s still best to wash off first.

Maintaining the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro also means paying attention to what’s going on outside the tub — namely, the temperature. This cold plunge shouldn’t be operated or stored in ambient temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, as this can potentially lead to damage across the piping and structure of the tub itself.

Thankfully, wheeling this unit into an enclosed garage is easier given the built-in wheels. It’s worth noting, though, that one gallon of water weighs approximately 8.34 pounds. If your tank is full to its 150-gallon capacity, that’s over 1,250 pounds of extra weight that needs to be pushed to safety. It may be best to plan ahead by draining some of the water before transport, especially if your environment chills off during the winter months. Trust us, your back will thank you later.

What to Consider Before Buying the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro

At nearly $8,900, the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is one of the most expensive cold plunge tubs on the market. As such, we recommend looking at your budget before even considering this luxe ice bath. We’ve also provided a few more factors to think through before adding this profile to your cart. After testing more than a dozen ice baths, we feel these considerations can be helpful when investing in any cold plunge tub, but especially when pondering a plunge at this price tag. 

Footprint and Available Space

Like squat racks and cable machines, cold plunges can take up a considerable amount of space. Break out the tape measure and confirm the Cold Plunge Pro — measuring 78.74 inches long, 34 inches wide, and 33.46 inches tall — can comfortably fit within your space.

You can also place some ice baths, like this Sun Home profile, in outdoor settings, but doing so will require additional considerations. We recommend storing your ice bath, regardless of the brand or design, on a level pad so there’s no risk of water spillage or angled water lines that could throw the entire unit off-balance. Also, given the weight of an ice bath when filled, it’s best to situate it on concrete or an otherwise sturdy foundation so the unit doesn’t sink into the soil over time.

Electrical Requirements

Requiring a standard 110-voltage outlet for operation, the Cold Plunge Pro may potentially work better than other ice baths requiring a 120-volt receptacle. The lower voltage won’t strain your system to its maximum capacity as much, although 110-volt and 120-volt tubs should provide few headaches in operation (they’re not called “plug and plunge” for nothing). Still, though, when looking for a cold plunge experience involving a chiller unit, make sure you have access to an open receptacle.

If you’re able, it’s also wise to run your Cold Plunge Pro on its own dedicated circuit. This is because while your standard wiring should be able to support your needs, the National Electrical Code highly recommends keeping larger appliances to a breaker of their own. (2) Naturally, we don’t expect every athlete to rewire their house prior to purchase, but if you do notice issues like tripping breakers, it could be a worthwhile solution.

You should also be mindful of how energy efficient your cold plunge tub is, since you’ll likely be keeping the unit plugged in more often than not for water circulation and filtration. While your tub’s energy consumption is reliant on factors like ambient temperature, usage frequency, and desired temperature, you can still do your part to ensure your cold water therapy habits don’t inflate your monthly utility bills. 

Be sure to read all the available literature on your cold plunge’s electrical requirements to determine how impactful they’ll be across your bill. In reference to the Cold Plunge Pro, Sun Home states, “We anticipate the daily cost of operating the plunges to be below $1, allowing for cost-effective usage and enjoyment of the tub.”

Temperature Control

The Cold Plunge Pro uses a built-in digital control center for all your temperature settings. It’s easy to make adjustments, but be sure to allow roughly an hour for the chiller to reach your desired temperature. This digital console gives you more control over the tub’s settings than chiller-less ice barrels, which are dependent on how much ice you add to the water. 

Speaking of temperatures, this Sun Home profile has one of the chilliest temperature ranges on the market, capable of reaching levels between 32 degrees and 48 degrees Fahrenheit. Most cold plunge therapy sessions occur at temps of 60 degrees and under, so this is well below the typical starting point. (5) When searching for a cold plunge tub, make sure it can reach comfortable (read: uncomfortable) temperatures that support your needs.

If you think 48 degrees is still too chilled for your first few sessions, it may be best to start with a cold shower over a cold plunge. Cold showers can still be a shock to your senses, but many faucets can’t reach temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be a good way to dip your toes into cold water immersion before taking the plunge. 

[Related: Ice Bath Vs. Cold Shower — Which Is Better for Strength Athletes?]

Water Filtration

The advanced filtration technology integrated into the Cold Plunge Pro is a major benefit. The protection it provides against debris, contaminants, and other impurities can help preserve your water quality for longer periods in between refills. 

Other cold plunge tubs offer similar filtration systems, but may require more upkeep to maintain a desired level of cleanliness. Be sure to opt for a system that supports your desired sanitation levels — and one you don’t mind tending to when the time comes to refresh your cold plunge water.

Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro Vs. Other Popular Brands

With new cold plunge tubs becoming available all the time, it’s important to consider your options when looking to add an ice bath to your regimen. Additionally, many at-home ice baths are beginning to offer chiller-powered profiles. This can be more affordable than your standard ice barrel or DIY plunge that requires regular hands-on drainage, cleaning, and ice replenishment. These silhouettes can be more expensive upfront, but can save you loads in the long run on ice alone.

When comparing chiller-powered cold plunge tubs, it can be helpful to have the key statistics like tub weight, water capacity, temperature range, and others side by side. After all, you likely won’t be able to compare and contrast the tubs in real life — unless you own a really long garage and have a hefty budget. So, to lend a helping hand, we’ve built this chart comparing the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro to a handful of its reputable competitors.

In terms of size and capacity, the Plunge XL is the closest to the Cold Plunge Pro. This unit is recommended for athletes over 6’0” tall, and measures 73 inches in length, just 5 inches shy of the Cold Plunge Pro. Additionally, the chiller powering the Plunge XL supports hot and cold water temperatures, all for roughly $1,900 less. This XL tub is constructed from acrylic, though, which gives the silhouette that bathtub look. Acrylic can also crack and stain more easily than stainless steel.

The Nordic Wave Viking is also cheaper than the Cold Plunge Pro, which can be attributed to its more upright, barrel-like design. You sit in a more compact stance while plunging in this tub, which can reach water temperatures as low as 38 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it a popular profile for athletes living in smaller spaces, but admittedly, isn’t best suited for taller users. Additionally, the water can get up to six degrees cooler in the Sun Home profile, which may be better suited for challenging your mind and body.

Finally, the smallest and cheapest competition to the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro, in our opinion, is the Inergize Cold Plunge Tub. This inflatable tub is a great pick for athletes that travel often and want to bring the benefits of cold plunge therapy with them on the road. Plus, this tub’s impressive chiller can support hot and cold water immersion. Unfortunately, the more compact profile does make this less accommodating for taller athletes, and the 60-70 gallon capacity can leave your extremities uncovered during a soak.

Places to Buy the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro

You can purchase the Cold Plunge Pro directly from Sun Home on the brand’s website. Additionally, financing is available through Affirm, which can be ideal for stretching out the high cost of this cold plunge. Options start at $299 per month or zero percent APR.

Customer Experience

When ordering a Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro, we found no listed “white glove” delivery service that could take setup and installation off your plate. That said, shipping is “free,” which is a definite plus for a machine of this size and weight. Your cold plunge tub will be delivered via freight, which may require some coordination with the delivery service.

Unboxing the Cold Plunge Pro is easy with just a hammer or screwdriver, and the wheeled base makes getting the unit into your desired position less of a chore. Be mindful, though, that delivery will be curbside, so you may want a dolly nearby (as well as a few helpful assistants) to help get the profile situated before beginning the unboxing process.

Warranties

Sun Home offers a limited one-year warranty on the Cold Plunge Pro that protects your ice bath tub against manufacturing defects. You can also purchase extended coverage that protects your cold plunge against failure from normal wear and tear, as well as any defects that may become present once the brand’s limited warranty package expires. Three-year extended coverage costs $576.99, while a five-year warranty extension will run you $960.99.

Company Information

Sun Home’s focus lies heavily in temperature therapy, or as the brand puts it, “The healing elements of nature.” Its roster of home saunas, cold plunges, and red light therapy devices showcases premium build qualities and innovative features to help each profile become a trusted, durable addition to your home gym or wellness space. 

To reach the brand, you have multiple pathways at your disposal. You can email their customer service team at info@sunhomesaunas.com, or reach them by phone at 1-844-728-6200. The brand’s online website also has a chat feature where you can talk through any questions with an online representative. Responses usually come within one hour, and experts are available on a daily basis.

In Conclusion

The Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is one of the most luxe ice baths we’ve encountered. The durable metal exterior, all-in-one design, and wheeled base make it a great pick for those wanting a tub that’s tough, innovative, and light on hassle. Performance-wise, the 32-degree to 48-degree temperature range and advanced filtration system makes every plunge a clean, invigorating experience.

Naturally, though, all of those premium build qualities come at a premium price point. This is not the ideal pick for budget-minded plungers, especially when you account for the fact that the Cold Plunge Pro doesn’t offer hot water immersion therapy, a common feature amongst many other ice baths at this cost. If you want to sit uncomfortably in the lap of luxury, though, this may be the tub for you.

FAQs

References

1. Buijze, G. A., Sierevelt, I. N., van der Heijden, B. C. J. M., Dijkgraaf, M. G., & Frings-Dresen, M. H. W. (2016). The effect of cold showering on health and work: A randomized controlled trial. PLOS ONE. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0161749
2. What Appliances Need a Dedicated Circuit for Safety?. Mr. Appliance. (n.d.). https://www.mrappliance.com/blog/2020/june/what-appliances-need-a-dedicated-circuit-for-saf/
3. Jackman, J. S., Bell, P. G., Van Someren, K., Gondek, M. B., Hills, F. A., Wilson, L. J., & Cockburn, E. (2023). Effect of hot water immersion on acute physiological responses following resistance exercise. Frontiers in Physiology, 14.
4. Versey, N. G., Halson, S. L., & Dawson, B. T. (2013). Water immersion recovery for athletes: Effect on exercise performance and practical recommendations. Sports Medicine, 43(11), 1101–1130.
5. Nightengale, L. (2023, September 25). Optimal temperature for Ice Baths. Ice Barrel. https://icebarrel.com/blog/optimal-temperature-for-ice-baths/
6. Cold plunge therapy and sauna: How long and what temperature?. Denver Sports Recovery. (n.d.). https://www.denversportsrecovery.com/blog/cold-plunge-therapy-and-sauna-how-long-and-what-temperature 

The post Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro Review (2023): A Luxurious Setup for an Uncomfortable Activity appeared first on BarBend.