FAQs
Stryke Ice Bath
1. Is there any plumbing required?
No plumbing is required. You simply need access to a power outlet to power the chiller and a tap to fill up the tub.
2. How long does it take to cool the water?
It typically takes 1 hour per 5C to chill the water. For example, if you fill the tub with water from a tap that is 15C, it will take approx. 2 hours to chill the water to 5C. Once the water is chilled you can keep it cool with the lid on. In many instances, you can turn the unit on for 30mins a day then keep the lid on for the rest of the time. Note that chilling time also depends on other factors such as the tub location, flow rate and external temperature.
3. How often should I change the filter on my ice bath chiller?
The frequency of filter changes depends on several factors, including whether the ice bath is used for personal or commercial purposes, how many people use it daily, and whether users shower before entering. Here’s a helpful guide to ensure your chiller stays in top condition:
General Recommendations:
Light Use (Personal Use): Replace the filter every 2–3 months, depending on usage levels and water quality. Frequent Use (Commercial or Group Settings): For heavy, daily use by multiple individuals, replace the filter every 4 weeks to maintain optimal water cleanliness and filtration efficiency.
ns Your Filter Needs Replacement:
The water appears cloudy or develops an unpleasant odor.
Reduced water flow or slower filtration performance.
Visible debris or mineral buildup in the water.
Factors That May Affect Filter Lifespan:
Outdoor Use: Exposure to outdoor elements may require more frequent replacements.
Hard Water: Minerals in hard water can clog filters faster.
Tips for Maintenance:
Regularly clean the system and inspect for signs of wear to ensure your chiller runs smoothly. If you need further assistance, our team is here to help with personalized advice—just reach out!
4. How do I clean my ice bath?
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide:
A. Drain the Ice Bath:
Completely drain the water from the bath to remove any debris or residue via the easy to use drainage valve.
B. Scrub the Interior:
Use a soft, non-abrasive sponge or cloth to scrub the walls and floor of the tub. Mix a gentle cleaning solution with warm water (avoid harsh chemicals to protect the surface and your skin). Pay extra attention to corners and edges where buildup may accumulate.
C. Rinse Thoroughly:
Rinse the tub with clean water to ensure all cleaning solution is removed.
A hose or bucket works well for this step.
D. Clean the Filtration System:
Remove and inspect the filter. If reusable, rinse it with water to clear out debris. You can also use filter cleaners to revitalize the filter – available at pool shops. If the filter is worn or clogged, replace it.
E. Check hoses, pumps, and seals for any buildup, wear, or damage. Clean or replace parts as needed.
F. Refill with Fresh Water:
Refill the ice bath with clean, filtered water. Add a water treatment solution (use a water testing kit available at pool shops to determine necessary solutions) to help maintain water clarity and reduce bacteria growth between cleanings.
Best Practices for Maintenance:
Daily: Skim the surface for debris and ensure the water looks clean and clear.
Weekly: Perform a light cleaning, including rinsing the tub and checking the filter.
Monthly (or as needed): Deep clean the system as outlined above.
Pro Tips:
Shower before using the ice bath to reduce contaminants. Use the lockable insulated chiller cover when not in use to prevent debris and dust from settling. Monitor water quality regularly and adjust your cleaning schedule based on usage and environmental factors. A clean ice bath not only feels better but also ensures your equipment lasts longer. If you need specific cleaning products or additional advice, let us know—we’re happy to help!
5. Why is my ice bath water turning brown?
If the water in your cedar ice bath lined with stainless steel is turning brown, it’s likely due to the natural properties of cedar wood interacting with the water. Here’s why this happens and what you can do about it:
a. Natural Tannins in Cedar:
Cedar wood contains natural oils and tannins, which can leach into the water over time, especially when the wood is exposed to moisture. These tannins are harmless but can give the water a brownish tint.
b. Fresh or Untreated Cedar:
If the cedar is new or hasn’t been sealed, it’s more prone to releasing tannins into the water.
c. Water Quality:
Hard water, which is high in minerals such as calcium and magnesium, can interact with tannins in the cedar, causing them to bind together or precipitate. This can intensify the brownish hue in the water, as the tannins form clumps or aggregates when exposed to these minerals.
Result: Instead of the tannins simply leaching out evenly into the water, they may form larger particles or aggregates, which can make the water appear even more discolored or murky.
2. pH Levels:
How It Affects Tannins: The pH of the water can also influence the behavior of tannins. In more alkaline water (higher pH), tannins are more likely to bond with minerals, which can increase the staining or cloudiness in the water. In acidic conditions (lower pH), tannins are more likely to remain dissolved in the water, potentially causing less visible discoloration.
Result: Alkaline water can make tannins clump together or interact more with minerals, exacerbating the discoloration.
d. Environmental Factors:
Humidity, heat, and prolonged exposure to water can accelerate the release of tannins from the wood.
How to Address and Prevent Brown Water:
a. Flush the System:
Drain and thoroughly rinse the tub to remove tannin buildup.
Refill with clean, filtered, or softened water to reduce mineral interactions.
b. Seal the Cedar:
Apply a water-resistant wood sealant to the cedar components to prevent tannins from leaching.
b. Seal the Cedar:
Apply a water-resistant wood sealant to the cedar components to prevent tannins from leaching.
Ensure the sealant is compatible with wet environments and safe for use near water. We reccomend Cabots Natural Decking Oil or similar oils that are available at your local hardware store.
c. Use a Water Treatment:
Add a stainless steel-compatible water treatment solution to help manage discoloration and maintain water clarity.
Regular Maintenance:
Wipe down the cedar surfaces to minimize water absorption.
Replace water regularly to avoid prolonged exposure that can draw out tannins.
Time and Aging:
Over time, the release of tannins will decrease naturally as the cedar “seasons.” Regular use and maintenance can help manage this process.
Does This Affect the Stainless Steel Lining?
The brown discoloration caused by tannins is typically harmless and does not affect the stainless steel. However, regular cleaning of the stainless steel surface will help maintain its shine and prevent any residue buildup.
By taking these steps, you can reduce or eliminate the brown tint in your water while preserving the beauty of your cedar ice bath!
6. How do I test Ice bath water quality?
Water Quality and Tannin Release The quality of the water in your ice bath can indeed play a significant role in how tannins from the cedar behave. Tannins are naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds in wood, and their release into water is influenced by a number of factors related to water quality. Here’s how different water conditions can affect the tannin process:
1. Hard Water and Mineral Content:
How It Affects Tannins:
2. Water Filtration:
How It Affects Tannins: If the water is not filtered or softened, the tannins in the cedar are more likely to interact with particles in the water, such as dirt, sediment, or minerals. Unfiltered water can amplify this interaction, causing the tannins to clump and form visible discoloration.
Result:
Without a proper filtration system, your ice bath is more likely to see tannins mixing with other impurities in the water, making it darker and potentially contributing to the buildup of residue in the tub over time.
3. Chlorine or Bromine in Water:
How It Affects Tannins: Chlorine or bromine used for water sanitation (common in pools or spas) can also react with tannins, causing them to precipitate or bind together. This may result in visible staining or a darker water color.
Result:
The presence of chlorine or bromine can exacerbate the release of tannins, especially if the water is not balanced or the sanitizer level is too high.
Does Water Quality Make Tannins Clump Together?
Yes, water quality can cause tannins to clump together. Hard water, high mineral content, and high pH can all lead to an interaction between tannins and minerals, causing tannins to aggregate into larger particles. This leads to a more noticeable brown discoloration in the water, which may appear as clumps or deposits. Essentially, minerals in the water act like a magnet, attracting the tannins and causing them to bond and precipitate out of the water.
This can result in:
Increased water discoloration: Tannins clumping together can make the water appear more brown, cloudy, or even murky.
Sediment buildup: As tannins bind with minerals, they may form sediment or residue that collects at the bottom of the bath or on the cedar surfaces.
How to Prevent or Minimize Clumping Tannins:
Use Softened or Filtered Water:
By using water with lower mineral content, you can reduce the chance of tannins clumping together. Installing a water softener or using filtered water can prevent mineral buildup and ensure the tannins remain dissolved in the water.
Maintain Balanced pH:
Keep the water’s pH within a balanced range (ideally between 7.2 and 7.8) to minimize the risk of tannins binding with minerals. Regularly test the water’s pH and adjust if necessary.
Regular Cleaning:
Regularly drain and clean the ice bath to remove any tannin buildup or sediment. This will prevent tannins from accumulating and interacting with other minerals in the water.
Water Treatment:
Consider using a water treatment solution designed for wooden tubs, which helps manage tannin release and keeps the water cleaner. These treatments can prevent excessive tannin leaching and help maintain clarity.
Use Ozone Sanitizer:
Consider installing an ozone generator to help reduce bacterial buildup and clarify the water without affecting the tannins.
By controlling water quality and taking the right preventative measures, you can reduce the effects of tannin clumping and keep your ice bath water clean and clear for longer!
7. Do I need to use the wooden box to enclose the chiller?
How do I use my stryke recovery massager?
Here’s some basic best practices to get the most out of your Stryke Recovery Massager, whether you’re treating yourself or others.
- Always turn on the Stryke Recovery Massager before placing it on the body.
- If you have a PRO, you can press the speed button to toggle between our signature three speed treatment levels.
- For muscle activation, recovery, and tension relief, simply “float” the Stryke Recovery Massager on muscles that need the most attention – it was designed to do all the work for you. Slowly glide the Stryke Recovery Massager up and down the muscle, gradually applying light to moderate pressure as needed.
- Breathe and relax and remember to stretch. It feels amazing!
How long should I use my stryke recovery massager?
Depending on the desired result, we recommend using your Stryke Recovery Massager for a minimum of 15 seconds and a maximum of 2 minutes per muscle group. A full-body session should not exceed 15 minutes. Treat yourself 2-3 times per day.
Muscle activation
Prior to workouts or physical activity, float your Stryke Recovery Massager for up to 30 seconds to instantly activate and “wake up” your muscles.
Muscle re-activation
Reactivate muscles during your workout or any activity by using your Stryke Recovery Massager for 10-15 seconds on the muscle group. This will re-energize, relieve muscle spasms and fatigue, and keep muscles active.
Pain relief & recovery
Float your Stryke Recovery Massager for up to 2 minutes for muscle recovery post-workout to decrease soreness, and on any muscles that require immediate pain relief.
Can I travel with my stryke recovery massager?
When traveling with your Stryke Recovery Massager, Lithium-ion batteries must be stored in carry-on baggage only.
Product Testing
You can test out a Stryke Recovery Massager at any one of our stockists worldwide. Simply email info@Strykerecovery.com.au to find a retailer near you. We promise you’ll feel the difference!
We also ship free* and have a 30-day money back guarantee, so if you don’t absolutely love your Stryke Recovery Massager, you can send it back and get a full refund. No questions asked
What is a stryke recovery massager?
The Stryke Recovery Massager is a handheld percussive therapy massage device. Building on over a decade of research, development, and innovation, every Stryke Recovery Massager delivers our signature Stryke Recovery Massager Percussive Therapy treatment with clinically effective results: pain relief, performance enhancement, improved range of motion, faster recovery.
Our Stryke Recovery Massager handle design provides the best ergonomics in the market, ensuring unmatched comfort and ease of use, especially when treating hard-to-reach areas.
Check out our Compare Page to see each of our device’s specifications and features side-by-side. All devices come with a travel case included.