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Chiller Not CoolingUpdated 10 days ago

If your chiller is running but the water is not getting cold, this guide will help you understand the most common causes and the steps you can take to fix the issue. Cooling problems are usually caused by simple issues such as low water flow, poor ventilation, or incorrect setup.

This guide walks you through each possible cause so you can get your chiller working properly again.

1. Check Water Flow

Your chiller cannot cool properly without strong and steady water flow.
Weak flow is the most common reason for poor cooling.

Make sure

  • The filter is clean

  • The filter is not clogged or worn out

  • The hoses are fully connected and tightened

  • The hoses are not bent, twisted, or kinked

  • Water is circulating continuously

If you notice weak flow, rinse the filter and check the hoses for air pockets or blockages.

2. Clean or Replace the Filter

A dirty filter restricts circulation and prevents the chiller from cooling the water efficiently.

Replace or rinse the filter if

  • the water looks cloudy

  • the filter is discolored

  • flow feels slower than usual

  • the filter has been used for several weeks

Strong water flow is important for consistent cooling.

3. Check the Ambient Temperature

Chillers work best in cooler environments. If the room is warm, the chiller needs more effort to cool the water.

Cooling performance drops when

  • the chiller is in a hot garage

  • the unit is exposed to direct sunlight

  • the room temperature is high

For best cooling, place the chiller in a cool indoor area with good airflow.

4. Improve Ventilation Around the Chiller

The chiller releases warm air from the cooling process. If this warm air has nowhere to go, the chiller cannot cool effectively.

Make sure

  • the vents are not blocked

  • there is open space on all sides of the chiller

  • the chiller is not inside a cabinet or tight corner

Good ventilation improves cooling speed significantly.

5. Keep the Lid Closed During Cooling

If the tub lid is open, warm air enters the water continuously, making cooling much slower.

Always keep the lid fully closed when cooling the water.

6. Check for Air Trapped in the Hoses

Air bubbles inside the hoses can affect water flow and reduce cooling.
This can happen after refilling the tub or reconnecting the hoses.

To fix this

  • lift or adjust the hoses to release trapped air

  • make sure the water is circulating smoothly

  • check for gurgling or uneven flow, which indicates air pockets

Once the air is removed, cooling usually improves.

7. Confirm the Temperature Setting

Make sure the target temperature on your controller is set correctly.
If the set temperature is higher than the current water temperature, the chiller will not activate cooling.

Double check that you selected the correct mode and temperature.

8. Avoid Overfilling the Tub

If the water level is too high, the chiller will need more time to cool the larger volume of water.

Fill the tub only to the recommended water level.

9. Give the Chiller Enough Time

Cooling speed depends on

  • water volume

  • room temperature

  • chiller size

Larger tubs take longer to cool. If you recently refilled the tub with warm tap water, it may take additional time to reach your target temperature.

10. Reset the Chiller

If none of the steps above help, try a basic reset.

To reset

  1. Turn off the chiller

  2. Unplug it

  3. Wait one to two minutes

  4. Plug it back in

  5. Turn it on again

A reset can help clear minor glitches.

11. Check for Leaks or Low Water in the System

Leaks or low water levels can reduce flow or interrupt cooling.

Inspect

  • hose connections

  • intake fittings

  • the filter housing

  • the water level in the tub

Add water if the tub is below the required level.

12. When to Contact Support

If the water is still not cooling after following all the steps above, the issue may require technical help.

Contact support if

  • the chiller turns on but never cools

  • the compressor does not activate

  • the chiller makes unusual noises

  • you suspect internal damage

  • cooling has become consistently weaker over time

Support can help check internal components or guide you through advanced troubleshooting.


Summary

A chiller that is not cooling is usually caused by

  • weak water flow

  • a clogged filter

  • poor ventilation

  • warm room temperature

  • trapped air in the hoses

  • incorrect settings

By checking each of these steps, most cooling problems can be resolved quickly. Proper setup, strong water flow, and clean filters are the key to keeping your chiller performing at its best.

Contact Support

If you still need help after following the steps above, our team is here to assist you.

Email: [email protected]
Phone: (386) 388-6867

We are happy to help with troubleshooting, replacement parts, or any questions about your cold plunge system.

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