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A cold plunge’s ventilation screen is not its water-filter cartridge. Plunge publishes separate maintenance instructions for its All-In tubs and first-generation systems, including different cleaning intervals and screen-removal steps. Identify the tub and chiller before following a video or taking a panel off. This guide compares the manufacturer’s instructions; it is not a water-treatment recipe. [1]
Match the maintenance page to the system
Plunge’s maintenance directory separates All-In, Evolve-series, and first-generation equipment. The directory provides separate links for tasks such as water-filter changes, draining, and ventilation cleaning, depending on the system. A familiar brand name or similar-looking enclosure is not sufficient evidence that the same procedure applies.
Write down the model and generation from the equipment records. If those are unclear, use the manufacturer’s support channel to identify the correct instructions before opening anything. Check the full product manual for power isolation and safety requirements before maintenance; this overview does not replace them.
All-In: removable ventilation screen
The manufacturer’s All-In screen page names the Plunge All-In, All-In Commercial, and All-In Commercial Max as compatible with its instructions. It describes removing the screen by pulling up on the bottom lip and pulling it out. Take the detached screen to a sink and run water through its inside face to wash away dust and debris.
Plunge then says to shake out the water, let the screen air-dry for a few minutes, and reinstall it top lip first, gently pressing it into place. The instruction concerns the removable screen—not washing the chiller, spraying an electrical compartment, or soaking the whole tub assembly. Its stated frequency is at least every three months for each of the three listed All-In variants. [2]
Gen 1: side screens and a front screen
The first-generation page describes popping out two side screens and cleaning them, then removing the front/bottom screw, taking out the plastic grille, and removing the screen for cleaning. It recommends doing this monthly or as needed, and notes that outdoor systems may need attention more often. [3]
Do not import the All-In rinse instructions or three-month interval into the Gen 1 procedure without checking the relevant documentation. The Gen 1 page does not describe the same arrangement as the All-In page. If you cannot locate the specified removable parts, stop and confirm the model instead of undoing additional screws.
Two separate maintenance records
| Task | Record to keep |
|---|---|
| Ventilation or chiller-screen cleaning | Exact model, official screen procedure, date checked, dust or debris observed, and next check. |
| Water-filter and water care | Correct filter instructions and the separate water-maintenance requirements for that system. |
Cleaning an air screen does not replace a water filter or establish safe water quality. Conversely, a fresh water cartridge does not show that the ventilation path is clean. The manufacturer’s directory links these jobs separately for a reason. [1]
Use the interval as a minimum inspection habit
Keep the model-specific interval visible near your maintenance records, especially if more than one person looks after the tub. Record what you actually cleaned instead of checking a generic “plunge serviced” box.
If cooling remains poor, damage is visible, or the documented screen-cleaning operation cannot be completed normally, contact support. Do not open the refrigeration system or improvise electrical repairs. This guide promises no cooling improvement percentage, energy savings, or health benefit; it helps keep two different manufacturer procedures from being mixed together.
Sources checked September 9, 2026
- https://plunge.com/pages/maintenance
- https://help.plunge.com/hc/en-us/articles/20014246165012-Cleaning-the-Ventilation-Screens-Plunge-All-In
- https://help.plunge.com/hc/en-us/articles/18284710727572-How-to-Clean-Your-Chiller-Screens-The-Plunge-Gen-1