A cold plunge provides therapeutic benefits but requires routine upkeep. The contained environment, combined with organic materials introduced during use, means the water quality degrades over time, necessitating a full drain and clean. This maintenance task is necessary for both sanitation and ensuring the longevity of mechanical components, like the chiller and circulation pump. This guide details the proper steps to safely empty, clean, and restart your cold plunge system.
Essential Safety and Preparation Steps
Before beginning the draining process, the immediate priority is to completely disconnect the unit from its power source. This involves unplugging the chiller and any associated filtration or pump units from the wall outlet to eliminate any risk of electrical shock or accidental system activation during water removal. Locating the drain mechanism is the next step, which typically resides near the base of the unit.
Gathering the necessary tools beforehand simplifies the procedure. A standard garden hose is often required to attach to the drain valve, allowing for controlled water disposal. Additionally, a soft cloth or sponge, non-abrasive cleaning solution, and a bucket should be prepared for the post-drain cleaning phase. Planning where the large volume of water will be safely directed is also important, ensuring it drains away from the unit’s mechanical components and sensitive landscaping.
Methods for Water Removal
The most straightforward method for emptying the tub is relying on gravity drainage, provided the unit features an external valve and is elevated slightly above the disposal area. Users should attach a garden hose securely to the drain valve connection, ensuring the opposite end is positioned in a designated safe drainage area. Opening the main drain valve then allows the water to flow out naturally.
For tubs situated far from a suitable drainage point or those lacking a functional gravity drain, an active removal method becomes necessary. A small, submersible utility pump offers a fast and efficient way to extract the water, capable of moving large volumes quickly through a connected discharge hose. The pump is simply placed into the tub, powered on, and the water is actively forced to the desired disposal location.
Another common technique, especially for units without a pump or external valve, involves using a manual siphon. This process requires submerging a hose entirely in the water, blocking one end, and then quickly moving that end below the water line outside the tub to initiate the suction. The difference in hydrostatic pressure then draws the water out. Regardless of the method chosen, the goal is to remove as much standing water as possible.
Post-Drain Cleaning and Tub Maintenance
Once the tub is completely empty, attention shifts to cleaning the interior surfaces and maintaining the filtration system. The tub’s liner, typically acrylic or a similar non-porous material, should be wiped down using a soft cloth and a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals because they can degrade the surface material, leading to pitting or discoloration over time.
This is also the optimal time to service the water filtration cartridge, which traps organic debris and particulates. The filter should either be thoroughly rinsed with a strong stream of water or, if heavily soiled or past its service life, replaced entirely. Before moving to the refill stage, inspect the now-accessible drain valve and surrounding components to ensure they are free of any accumulated hair or debris that could impede proper sealing.
Refilling and System Restart
With the tub interior clean and the filter serviced, the drain valve must be securely closed to prevent leakage during the refill process. Use a standard garden hose to introduce fresh water into the tub, ensuring the temperature is initially cool to prevent unnecessary strain on the chiller unit. The water level should be brought up to the manufacturer’s recommended operational line, which is typically high enough to cover the jets or the skimmer opening completely.
After confirming there are no leaks around the drain plug or component connections, the unit can be plugged back into the power outlet. The final step involves initiating the chiller and filtration cycle. Many systems require a brief period to purge air from the circulation lines, so users should monitor the flow and temperature for the first 30 minutes to ensure the system is operating smoothly and the water is circulating correctly.