Defrosting Guide — Icebound Pro Chiller

Defrosting Guide — Icebound Pro Chiller

If your chiller was left running in freezing conditions or the water stopped circulating, ice may have formed, blocking flow in the water lines. This can restrict circulation or prevent the unit from starting properly.

Follow these steps carefully to defrost your Icebound Pro Chiller safely and protect it from further damage.

⚠️ Important Warnings

  • Always unplug the chiller before handling or moving it.
  • Never run your chiller while it’s frozen; this can damage the pump, compressor or heat exchangers.

  • You can use a hair dryer or space heater to help speed up the thawing process. Just apply gentle heat from the filter housing or strainer side of the unit. Avoid directing high heat at the control panel or other electronic components.

Step-by-Step Defrosting Process

1️⃣ Power Off & Disconnect

  • Turn the chiller off using the control panel.
  • Unplug it from the wall outlet for complete safety.

2️⃣ Drain the Tub, Filter Housing, and Strainer

  • Drain your cold plunge completely to prevent additional water from freezing in the lines. Open the tub drain valve or disconnect the lowest hose to let water flow out.

  • Unscrew the clear filter housing and remove both the filter and strainer. Empty any trapped water inside.

  • Store the filter, housing, and strainer indoors while defrosting to keep them dry and prevent cracking in cold conditions.

3️⃣ Move the Chiller Indoors

  • Bring the chiller unit inside to a dry, warm location (room temperature is ideal).
  • Place it near a drain, on a towel, or an absorbent mat to catch any melting ice or water.

4️⃣ Allow Natural Defrosting

  • Let the unit sit unplugged at room temperature for the required time.
  • During this time, internal ice will melt and collect at the base of the chiller.

5️⃣ Drain Any Melted Water

  • Once thawed, gently tilt the chiller backward to help drain any internal water through the drain outlet.
  • You can also carefully tilt it side to side to release trapped water.
  • Avoid shaking or turning it upside down abruptly; use only gentle motion.

7️⃣ Inspect and Dry

  • Check the inlet and outlet ports for debris or damage.
  • Wipe all surfaces dry and allow the unit to sit for an additional hour to ensure no internal moisture remains.

8️⃣ Reconnect and Test

  • When temperatures are above freezing and you’re ready to reconnect your chiller, reattach all hoses, the filter housing, and the strainer (and check that all the o-rings are in place).

  • Fill your tub with clean water above both ports.

  • Plug the chiller back in and run it briefly to confirm normal water flow.

  • Watch for leaks or unusual sounds; these could indicate internal damage from prior freezing.

If Flow Is Still Blocked

If there’s still no water movement after 48 hours of defrosting:

  • Double-check that the filter and strainer are clear and seated correctly.
  • Ensure there are no frozen hoses or valves in your setup.
  • If the flow remains restricted, contact Icebound Support before running the unit further, as continuing operation could cause internal damage.

✅ That’s It!

Your Icebound Pro Chiller should now be fully defrosted and safe to use again.

Always winterize your system before freezing temperatures return to avoid repeating the issue; it’s the best way to protect your investment and ensure flawless cold plunges year-round.

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