The Cold Standard

Cold plunging, or immersing yourself in ice-cold water for a brief period, has grown in popularity as a wellness trend due to its many potential health benefits. It improves circulation, reduces inflammation, enhances muscle recovery, and boosts mental clarity. However, not all cold plunges are created equally, especially when it comes to ensuring safety and hygiene. For the best experience, it’s important to choose a cold plunge that is in a health department-approved facility, following sanitation regulations and using high-quality filtration systems.

Sanitation Regulations and Bromine Use

In any swimming pool or plunge pool, proper sanitation is key to maintaining water quality and ensuring user safety. Health departments set strict regulations regarding water treatment for public pools. One common chemical used in these facilities is bromine, which is a powerful disinfectant. Unlike ozone, which is commonly used in residential cold plunges, bromine is preferred in public plunges due to its more stable nature in warmer water and its less harsh odor.

Public health departments require that pools and plunges be properly sanitized and that bromine or other sanitizers be used according to prescribed levels. Bromine helps to kill bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms that may be present in the water. If you are cold plunging in a city-approved facility, you can be confident that the water is regularly tested and maintained according to strict guidelines.

Test Strips and Cleanliness

In residential cold plunges, many owners may not perform frequent tests on their water, relying on ozone or other less reliable sanitation methods. This can lead to an increased risk of poor water quality or contamination. However, in health department-approved facilities, the cleanliness and safety of the water are regularly monitored. Test strips can’t always provide a full picture of the water’s cleanliness and chemical balance. The regulated pools are tested multiple times per day to ensure that all levels, such as pH and disinfectant concentrations, are within safe and optimal ranges for public use. This commitment to safety ensures that your cold plunge experience is not only invigorating but also safe.

Sanitation and Filtration: Even More Important After Sauna Use

The importance of proper sanitation and filtration is even more critical if individuals are using both saunas and plunge pools. After exiting a sauna, it’s essential to shower off sweat and oils to avoid contaminating the plunge pool water. However, not everyone remembers to shower before jumping into the cold water. In a facility with a health department-approved cold plunge, the water is still carefully maintained, even if someone enters the pool without showering. This is because these facilities use powerful filtration systems and strict sanitation practices that prevent the spread of germs and ensure cleanliness, regardless of how well-prepared the user is.

On the other hand, in unregulated plunge pools, there is a much higher risk of contamination if someone enters without showering. Without proper testing, filtration, and sanitization, unregulated facilities may allow germs, bacteria, or other harmful microorganisms to flourish, especially if users bypass the necessary hygiene steps. By using a health department-approved plunge pool, you can trust that the water will remain safe and clean, even if someone forgets to follow the best hygiene practices.

Filtration Systems: Size Matters

One of the most significant differences between residential plunge pools and professionally managed commercial plunge pools is the size and quality of their filtration systems. In residential setups, filtration systems are often small and may not be rated for the level of use that comes with public bathing. Many residential pools and plunges rely on small filters that are often no larger than a coffee cup. These smaller filters may struggle to handle the level of contaminants introduced by regular use, making them less effective at keeping the water clean and clear.

In contrast, health department-approved facilities invest in professional-grade filtration systems designed to handle the demands of a larger number of users. These filters are typically much larger, about the size of a 5-gallon bucket, and are specifically rated to meet the required flow rates based on the number of users and the size of the pool. This ensures that the water remains clean and free from harmful pathogens and debris, making it safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Efforts Toward Sustainability

In today’s environmentally conscious world, efforts to reduce the ecological impact of public facilities are essential. In practice, a residential-grade cold plunge is supposed to be drained, emptied, and cleaned between each user; that is a lot of wasted water. A health department-approved cold plunge is designed for public use and saves on water usage.

A health department-approved plunge pool often incorporates energy-efficient filtration systems and NSF-rated pumps that are designed to optimize water flow and minimize energy consumption. These systems are carefully designed to meet both health and environmental standards, ensuring water clarity while also contributing to a more sustainable operation.

By using these advanced systems, permitted pools and plunges help reduce the use of energy and chemicals, making them a greener option compared to traditional systems. Whether it’s the energy-efficient pumps, the saving of water, or the optimal flow rate designed to minimize energy waste, city-approved plunge pools offer a more sustainable and eco-friendly solution for those seeking a cold plunge experience.

Why You Should Choose City Health Department-Approved Cold and Hot Plunge Pools

While cold plunging is a fantastic wellness activity, it’s important to do it in an environment that ensures both safety and cleanliness. City health department-approved pools offer the reassurance of strict sanitation and filtration standards, ensuring the water is regularly tested, properly sanitized with bromine, and filtered through high-quality systems designed for the appropriate user load. With these facilities, you can be confident that you’re not only reaping the benefits of cold therapy but also doing so in a safe, clean, and environmentally responsible manner.

Whether you’re seeking recovery after a workout, stress relief, or simply want to boost your mood, choosing a health department-approved cold plunge pool provides you with the peace of mind that your health and wellness are in good hands.