Can You Have a Cold Spa Pool? Discover the Benefits of Cold Water Therapy

While most people associate spa pools with warmth and relaxation, using your spa as a cold plunge can offer numerous benefits that go beyond simple enjoyment. Cold water therapy—immersion in cold water—is increasingly recognised for its ability to support muscle recovery, enhance circulation, and improve mental well-being.

If you’re looking for a refreshing alternative to traditional hot spa use, running your spa at cooler temperatures could be just what you need.

In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of running a cold spa pool, the health benefits of cold water therapy, and how you can set your spa to the perfect cool temperature.

Key Takeaways:

• Yes, you can run a cold spa pool! Simply adjust the temperature settings or install a spa heat pump to achieve temperatures as low as 5°C (41°F).
• Cold water therapy offers numerous health benefits, including faster muscle recovery, improved circulation, stress relief, and a boosted metabolism.
• A spa heat pump can help you achieve optimal cold water immersion for those seeking more intense cold water therapy.

Can You have a cold spa pool?

Absolutely! While spa pools are typically heated for relaxation, they can also be used as cold plunge pools by lowering the water temperature or turning off the heater completely. Most modern spas have temperature control systems that allow you to set the water to as low as 15°C (59°F), making them perfect for cold water immersion.

For those who want an even colder experience, installing a spa heat pump can lower the water temperature to as low as 5°C (41°F), depending on the model.

Please note that, while all Fisher and Vortex Spas sold through Spa World are heat pump-compatitble, this is not the case with all spa pools. Check with you spa retailer if you can install a heat pump to the spa you own or want to buy.

Whether you’re an athlete seeking quicker muscle recovery or someone interested in cold water therapy for health reasons, a cold spa pool offers a refreshing and rejuvenating type of spa experience.

Want to know more about keeping your spa cool during summer? Check out our guide on How to Lower Your Spa Temperature in Summer for tips on keeping your spa cool when the weather heats up.

What Are the Potential Benefits of Cold Water Therapy?

Cold water therapy involves exposing the body to cold water, and many people believe it can offer unique physical and mental advantages. Unlike traditional warm water hydrotherapy, cold water therapy focuses on the potential benefits of cooler temperatures.

1. Muscle Recovery and Comfort

Cold water immersion is commonly used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts as part of their recovery routines. The cold water may help ease muscle discomfort by reducing blood flow to the area, which can result in a soothing effect for tired or sore muscles after exercise.

Tip: Spending 10 to 15 minutes in a cold spa pool after exercising may help you feel more comfortable and refreshed.

2. Circulation Support

Cold water therapy can stimulate a natural reaction in the body by influencing blood flow. When exposed to cold, your blood vessels constrict, potentially redirecting blood to vital organs. After rewarming, your blood vessels dilate, which may help encourage healthy circulation.

3. Mental Well-being and Stress Relief

Many people find cold water therapy beneficial for their mental well-being. The cold exposure is thought to stimulate the release of endorphins, which are associated with feelings of well-being and relaxation. Incorporating cold water therapy into your routine may help improve your overall mood and reduce stress.

Tip: Regular cold water sessions may help you feel more resilient to daily stress and improve your mental outlook.

4. Energy and Metabolism Support

Cold exposure is believed to activate brown fat in the body, which helps generate heat. This process, called thermogenesis, is thought to support metabolism and energy use. While cold water therapy isn't a substitute for diet and exercise, it could complement your overall wellness routine.

Is cold water therapy good for you?

Cold water therapy is when you immerse yourself in water that’s less than 15°C. You can also do cold water therapy by simply taking an ice bath, a cold shower, or having an outdoor swim when the water is cold.

What is the point of cold water therapy? It’s primarily used to promote health and wellness. Many report these possible health benefits:

• Speed healing after an injury
• Relieving sore muscles and joint pain
• Quick recovery from exercise
• Boosting metabolic rate
• Boosting the immune system
• Easing symptoms of depression
• Improve sleep
• Sharpen mental focus
• Improved mental health and wellbeing

Please note that immersing in cold water affects your heart rate, blood pressure, and circulation and may can cause serious cardiac stress. Take safety precautions and discuss risks with your doctor before you try it.

Safety tips:

• Talk to your doctor first before attempting cold water therapy to ensure that you are safe.
• Have someone watch over you to avoid any untoward accidents.
• Warm up once you’re done to avoid the risk of hypothermia.
• Keep cold water immersions brief – staying in cold water for longer than a few minutes is not recommended.

Please note, we are not medical professionals. We always recommend you seek a professional opinion before trying to treat pain or any health condition at home.

How to Transition to a Cold Spa Pool

Switching to a cold spa pool is straightforward, and you can start reaping the benefits of cold water therapy with just a few simple adjustments:

• Turn Off the Heater: The easiest way to create a cold spa pool is to turn off the heater. If you prefer a slightly milder plunge, set the thermostat to the lowest available temperature, usually around 15°C (59°F).
• Install a Spa Heat Pump: For those looking to achieve more intense cold water immersion, installing a spa heat pump is the way to go. A spa heat pump allows you to lower the water temperature to as low as 5°C (41°F), depending on the model, offering more control and flexibility for those who enjoy colder temperatures or want to replicate cold plunge therapy.

• Monitor Water Temperature: To ensure you're getting the most out of cold water therapy, regularly monitor the water temperature. A good range for cold water immersion is between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F), depending on your comfort level.
• Use Cold Water Additions: If the outdoor temperature keeps your spa warmer than desired, you can add cold water or ice to the spa for a quick cooling effect.
• Adjust Session Duration: If you're new to cold water therapy, start with short sessions of just a few minutes and gradually increase the time as your body adapts to the cold.

Looking for more cooling solutions?

Explore our guide on How to Cool Your Spa in Summer for additional tips on keeping your spa comfortable and enjoyable, even in the hottest months of the year.

How do you treat the water in a cold spa pool?

Once you cool down your spa or swim spa water, you’ll also need to continue to maintain the quality of the water by treating it with chemicals. . The truth is, it’s not that different to treating a hot or warm spa.

However, the temperature does have an effect on how chemicals dissolve in water. Hotter temperatures will make your spa chemicals (with the exception of sodium bicarbonate) dissolve faster.

This means your chemicals will dissolve slower in cold water. Often, cold water leads to less sanitiser demand. Always make sure that you follow the package instructions on your spa chemicals to keep your spa water balanced and sanitised. To ensure the sanitiser dissolves properly in your cold spa, we recommend adding it to a bucket of warm water first, stir until fully dissolved and then add that mixture to your spa water.

For a more in-depth guide on how to use water chemicals, check the link below.

Q&As Cold water therapy and cold spa pool

Are there cold water spas?

Yes! Spa pools can be used for both hot and cold water therapy—you’re not stuck with just one option. Most spa pools have temperature controls that allow you to adjust the water temperature as needed. Depending on your climate and the control panel capabilities, you can enjoy both hot water relaxation and the benefits of cold water immersion in the same spa.

Does a spa pool need to be heated?

No, it doesn’t! While many people use spa pools for their heating features, you can adjust the settings to cool the water or turn off the heating altogether. This flexibility allows you to use your spa pool at a temperature that suits your needs, whether that’s for hot water therapy or a refreshing cold plunge.

How low can the temperature on a spa pool be?

The temperature of your spa pool typically cannot drop below the ambient air temperature. For example, if the outdoor temperature is 30°C, your spa water is unlikely to cool below that even if you set the spa to a lower temperature. However, you can cool the water further by adding ice, using cold water, or removing the spa cover for a period of time to let heat escape.

Can cold water therapy be done in any spa pool?

Yes, cold water therapy can be performed in most modern spa pools as long as you can control the temperature settings. If your spa has the ability to turn off or lower the heating, you can easily adapt it for cold water therapy. Some spas even come with heat pumps that allow you to lower the water temperature significantly, which is perfect for those who prefer colder immersion.

What are the benefits of using a spa pool for cold water therapy?

Many people believe that cold water therapy offers several potential benefits, such as muscle recovery, improved circulation, mental well-being, and increased energy. Spa pools provide a controlled environment where you can enjoy these potential benefits with the convenience of being at home.

How long should you stay in a cold spa pool?

The amount of time spent in a cold spa pool depends on your comfort level and experience. Many users start with short sessions, such as 5 to 10 minutes, and gradually increase their time as they become more accustomed to the cold. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid staying in cold water for too long to prevent discomfort or negative effects.

Is cold water therapy safe for everyone?

Cold water therapy may not be suitable for everyone, especially individuals with certain health conditions like heart problems or cold sensitivity. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting cold water therapy, particularly if you have any medical concerns.

Can a spa heat pump cool the water down?

Yes! Spa heat pumps can be used to both heat and cool the water. Depending on the model, you can lower your spa’s water temperature significantly, often down to 5°C (41°F). This makes it ideal for those who want to use their spa for cold water therapy or simply enjoy a refreshing dip in cooler temperatures.

Conclusion: Experience the Benefits of a Cold Spa Pool Today

Using your spa pool as a cold plunge offers a wealth of health benefits, from faster muscle recovery and improved circulation to mental stress relief and boosted metabolism. Cold water therapy can transform your spa into a refreshing wellness tool, perfect for both athletes and those seeking mental rejuvenation.

For those looking for even more control over spa temperatures, installing a spa heat pump can unlock the full potential of cold water immersion, allowing you to cool your spa to as low as 5°C.

Ready to explore the world of cold water therapy?

At Spa World, we have everything you need to get started, from spa heat pumps and covers to expert advice on making the most of your spa. Contact our team today or visit one of our showrooms across Australia and New Zealand to learn more.

If you need more information on how to use your spa pool, you can get in touch with our customer care team. You can also visit your local Spa World Showroom and talk to one of our friendly salespeople.

DISCLAIMER: The health information contained in this article is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. If you have any concerns about your current health or well-being, please contact your GP or other medical professionals for advice.