Ice Barrel, an Ohio-based wellness brand, is dedicated to investing in products that impact customer’s health. Specializing in cold water therapy, their team recognizes that putting the work in now can unlock incredible achievements down the road. With this mindset, Ice Barrel set out to invest in the research and development necessary to design one of the world’s most advanced water chillers. Their team reached out to Design Central, which began a detailed engineering research, specification, and sourcing journey.
Our collaboration commenced with a thorough and competitive product research process. The Design Central team rigorously tested a range of competitive units, diligently documenting key performance indicators and characteristics such as BTU/hr, minimum cooling temperatures, and types of refrigerants used. This comprehensive data collection enabled our engineers to precisely identify the ideal cooling capacity, ensuring energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Additionally, our evaluation revealed safety features overlooked by other brands, which became a priority in Ice Barrel's chiller design. This attention to detail positioned Ice Barrel to not only meet but exceed current industry standards.
Armed with optimal performance data, Design Central began generating the requirements and specifications to manufacture the custom-built chiller commercially. These specifications helped the Ice Barrel team achieve their goal of chilling up to 80 gallons of water within a set timeframe. Along with Ice Barrel’s other custom features, like intelligent cooling to 37°F, the chiller provides customers with the best possible solution for their cold water therapy experience.
With research and specifications complete, the next step was sourcing a custom refrigeration system manufacturer. Ice Barrel was committed to North American sourcing, aiming to minimize barriers between them and the manufacturer to provide Ice Barrel customers with prompt problem-solving and customer service. Design Central vetted over two dozen companies, carefully selecting the right North American-based partner that achieved all specified requirements.
Design Central facilitated the initial relationship between Ice Barrell and the manufacturer, ensuring a seamless transition. This oversight guaranteed the production of an industry-leading chiller that met all of Ice Barrel’s specifications and goals.