A clear advantage? Comparing UV systems and ozone generators

A clear advantage? Comparing UV systems and ozone generators

Cold therapy has steadily gained popularity among wellness enthusiasts, athletes, and those seeking to enhance their daily health routines. The practice of cold water immersion can reduce inflammation, support immunity, improve mental focus, and enhance your overall well-being. 

When you are incorporating a wellness practice such as cold water therapy, you want it to be as beneficial as possible. Temperature and protocols can play a big part in realizing the benefits. However, a key component of any cold plunge session is clean, clear water. 

The water temperature of a cold tub can inhibit the growth of bacteria and other contaminants, especially when compared to a pool or spa. But you still need a water care system so that the water is safe for your plunge sessions.

Most cold tubs combine a filter with some kind of purification technology, whether it’s a UV light system or ozone generator. While the goal of each system is to keep water clean, it’s important to understand how both work so that you choose the best cold tub for your home and ice bath routine.

comparing ozone and uv cold tubs

Understanding the technologies behind the clean

Choosing the right purification system for your cold tub is more than just a functional decision; it's about ensuring your health and maximizing the benefits of every cold plunge. 

UV light systems, with their safe and effective water treatment capabilities, can outperform and outpurify the more traditional ozone generators, providing a safer and more enjoyable cold tub experience.

Ozone generators

Ozone generators are a common feature in pool and spa water care systems. They generate ozone gas (O3), which when dissolved in water, acts to neutralize contaminants like bacteria, viruses, and algae. 

And many cold tub makers have adopted this technology as a way to keep the water clean and clear. 

Why are ozone systems so common? 

In addition to being a familiar option, they can be less expensive compared to more superior systems such as UV light.

While ozone is a powerful oxidizer, it doesn’t work as it’s supposed to in cold water. Cold plunges hold less water than their pool and spa counterparts, and the temperature of the water affects that ozone process. People with a cold tub that has an ozonator might notice an odor, which can be irritating and take away from your plunge experience. Plus, that O3 gas can be corrosive to smaller spa components over time.

UV light system for cold tub

Unlike ozone generators in cold tubs, UV light systems don’t rely on a chemical reaction to purify the water. Rather, the water circulates through the plumbing system where it is exposed to ultraviolet light. This exposure serves a dual purpose; not only does it neutralize contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and algae by destroying their DNA, but it also prevents these microorganisms from reproducing.

UV systems help preserve water’s natural properties, eliminating the risk of respiratory irritation or unpleasant odors when you open the cover of your cold plunge. This type of water care system can be particularly beneficial if you have sensitive skin or eyes.

cold tub maintenance

Benefits of a cold tub UV system 

You want a cold tub to help take care of you —whether it’s managing physical or emotional stress. It shouldn’t be something that adds to that. 

Michael Phelps Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs by Master Spas are designed to provide an exceptional cold therapy experience. 

With features such as 24-hour circulation pump, filter, and UV light purification system, Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs require minimal chemicals to keep the water clean and clear. This system allows you to prioritize your cold plunge routine — not the maintenance.

Clean water with fewer chemicals

One of the benefits of a UV light system is its ability to purify water without a chemical reaction. This means there are no byproducts, and you won’t experience any unpleasant odors or potential irritations that can arise with chemical residues like those from ozone.

The Chilly GOAT system works best when combined with a strategic use of chemicals, such as a sanitizer and non-chlorine oxidizer. The chemicals can take action against the contaminants before the UV light does its job. Most owners can expect to add a half-teaspoon of chlorine a couple times a week, depending on how often people are hopping in the cold tub.

Consistent performance

Unlike ozone, which can fluctuate in effectiveness based on the concentration of gas and other variables, UV light provides consistent and reliable purification. This consistency ensures that each cold plunge experience is as clean and refreshing as the last.

Safety and comfort 

A cold tub is an investment in your health and wellness — and you want it to last. With a UV light system, you can enjoy peace of mind that it will not produce any offgas or byproducts that could cause corrosion or damage the cold tub components. 

In addition, because there’s no change to the composition of the water or air, the UV system of the Chilly GOAT provides a safer soaking environment — especially when you’re looking at the health of your skin and respiratory system. 

Ease of maintenance

Managing a UV system involves minimal fuss. The primary requirement is periodic replacement of the UV bulb, typically once a year, depending on usage. This is far less cumbersome than handling the installation challenges and potential hazards of maintaining an ozone system.

Investing in a cold plunge tub can help you live bold. It’s important to choose a tub that’s designed with your health and well-being in mind so that each plunge contributes positively to your wellness journey.

comparing ozone and uv cold tub

Choosing the Best Cold Tub

Do you want to enjoy the benefits of cold water therapy without buying bag after bag of ice? Having a Michael Phelps Chilly GOAT Cold Tub by Master Spas allows you to realize the impact of cold water. Enjoy clean, clear, cold water on demand.  You can click here to find out more about the benefits of incorporating a Michael Phelps Chilly GOAT cold tub into your routine. Start your journey today!