Setting Up Your Cedar TubUpdated 2 days ago

Your Cedar Tub is built to last a permanent cold plunge that gets better with time. This guide walks you through everything from unboxing to your first plunge. Read it once before you start; it'll save you time.

Two people are recommended for positioning both models. Once filled, the tub should not be moved.

Before you begin

Choose your final location before the tub arrives. Think about:

• Surface — flat, level, and stable. Pavers, decking, or concrete all work. Avoid uneven or soft ground.
• Drainage — you'll need to drain the tub periodically. Position it somewhere water can run off freely.
• Outdoor placement — a sheltered spot is preferred. Avoid prolonged direct rain on the cedar exterior where possible.
• Clearance — leave enough space around the tub to connect your chiller hoses and access the drain valve.

What's in the box

• Cedar tub (cedar shell + stainless steel liner pre-assembled)
• Drain valve assembly
• Hose fittings for chiller connection
• User manual

Installation videos

For full Ultra Max setup instructions, see Setting Up Your Ultra Max Chiller.

Step-by-step setup

Step 1 — Position the tub

Place the tub in its final location before adding any water. Use two people for the Duo. Once filled, neither model should be moved.

Step 2 — Connect your chiller hoses

Connect the chiller inlet and outlet hoses to the fittings at the base of the tub before adding water. This is significantly easier to do dry please don't skip this step.

Step 3 — Close the drain valve

Confirm the drain valve at the base is fully closed. Check it twice before filling.

Step 4 — Fill slowly

Fill via garden hose and monitor the wood seams as you go. Leave the following space from the rim:

• Cedar Solo: 10–15 cm from the rim
• Cedar Duo: 15 cm from the rim (to allow for displacement with two people)
• Keep in mind: Water levels must be above chiller height.

Step 5 — First fill behaviour

Minor seeping at the wood seams on first fill is completely normal. Cedar absorbs water and naturally swells to seal gaps within 24–48 hours. Leave the tub filled and monitor. Only empty if the leaking is significant.

Water may also appear dark or tea-coloured for the first few fills. This is natural tannin leaching from the cedar wood it's harmless and reduces significantly after 3–5 fills.

Step 6 — Power on your chiller

Once filled, power on your chiller and allow it to run down to your target temperature. Larger volumes take longer:

In warmer climates or during summer, allow additional time. For contrast therapy sessions using the Duo, allow 30–45 minutes for temperature to restabilise between sessions.

First use

Once your tub has reached your target temperature, you're ready. A few things to keep in mind early on:

• Keep sessions short to start as your body adapts over time
• Always have a warm towel ready before you get in
• Never use the tub alone if you're new to cold water immersion

Care and maintenance

Cedar exterior

• Rinse with clean water after use
• For surface marks: lightly damp cloth, wipe gently, dry immediately
• Leave the lid off or at an angle between uses to allow airflow
• Never use bleach, abrasive pads, pressure washers, or solvent cleaners on the cedar
• The cedar will naturally weather and develop character over time; surface variations and grain are features, not faults

Stainless steel liner

• Wipe dry after draining
• For mineral buildup: diluted white vinegar (1:4 ratio) on a soft cloth, rinse thoroughly
• Never use steel wool, bleach, or abrasive powders on the liner
• Check the liner periodically for surface corrosion and contact us if found

Water care

• Replace water monthly with regular use, or sooner if needed
• Use a compatible water sanitiser to maintain water quality
• With the Duo and two-person use, sanitise more regularly

Winter and storage

Drain and store if temperatures are expected to drop below 32°F (0°C), the tub will be unused for 4+ weeks, or for any extended storage period. Do not allow water to freeze inside, any ice expansion will permanently damage the liner.

1. Turn off and disconnect the chiller
2. Open the drain valve and attach a hose to direct water to a drain point
3. Once empty, dry the liner thoroughly with a soft cloth
4. Tilt the tub slightly to drain any residual water from the liner seams
5. Leave the drain valve open during storage
6. Store in a covered, sheltered position (indoors is ideal)
7. Do not store upside down as this stresses the cedar stave joints