How Much Does a Cryotherapy Chamber Cost

Cryotherapy has become a popular method of recovery for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals seeking pain relief. If you’re considering investing in a cryotherapy chamber but aren’t sure about the costs, this article is just what you need. It explores the factors that influence the price of a cryotherapy chamber and what you can expect to pay. 

Types of Cryotherapy Chambers and Their Costs

The cost of a cryotherapy chamber depends on the type, brand, and features it offers. Generally, there are two main types of cryotherapy chambers:

Whole-Body Cryotherapy Chambers

Whole-body cryotherapy chambers are designed for full-body exposure to cold temperatures, often as low as -130°C to -190°C as outlined in our detailed guide on the temperatures used in cryogenic therapy. Depending on the manufacturer and features they can cost between £50,000 and £126,000

Localised Cryotherapy Machines  

These devices target specific body areas rather than exposing the entire body to cold. They are smaller and generally more affordable, with prices ranging from £4,000 to £18,000.

Hybrid Cryo Chambers 

These chambers combine nitrogen and electric cooling technology to create a more efficient cooling experience. They can provide fast cooling while reducing nitrogen consumption. The cost of hybrid chambers varies but usually falls between £50,000 and £100,000.

Nitrogen Cryo Chambers 

These chambers use liquid nitrogen to cool the air inside. They tend to be more affordable initially, with prices ranging from £35,000 to £80,000, but they require a continuous supply of liquid nitrogen, which increases operational costs.

Electric Cryo Chambers 

These chambers use advanced electric cooling systems to maintain freezing temperatures. They remove the need for nitrogen, making them more cost-effective in the long run. However, they tend to have a higher upfront cost, ranging from £70,000 to £150,000.

Understanding the Costs of a Cryotherapy Chamber Setup

When considering the investment in a cryotherapy chamber, it’s important to factor in both the initial equipment costs and ongoing operational expenses. Below, we’ve outlined the main categories of expenses you’ll encounter, along with estimated cost ranges and frequencies to help you plan your budget accordingly.

Factors Affecting Cryotherapy Chamber Costs

Several factors influence the price of a cryotherapy chamber, including:

Technology and Features: Some chambers use nitrogen gas to cool the air, while others rely on electric cooling systems. Electric models tend to be more expensive due to their advanced technology and lower operational costs.

Brand and Manufacturer: Brands like CryoScience, Juka, and CryoBuilt often come with a higher price tag due to their reputation and quality.

Size and Capacity: Single-person chambers are more affordable, while multi-person cryotherapy chambers can be significantly more expensive. 

Installation and Maintenance: Installation costs can vary depending on the size and type of the chamber. Additionally, regular maintenance is required for optimal performance.

Operational Costs: Nitrogen-based chambers require a steady supply of liquid nitrogen, which can be expensive. Electric models may have higher initial costs but lower monthly expenses.

Is there anything else I should know about quotes and costs?

When you request a quote for a cryotherapy chamber, make sure that it includes all of the products, accessories and services that are required. Often, the quote only includes the cost of the cryo chamber and doesn’t list any other expenses. 

Buying vs. Leasing a Cryotherapy Chamber

If the upfront cost of purchasing a cryotherapy chamber is too high, leasing may be a more viable option. Leasing costs typically range from £800 to £2,000 per month, depending on the model and lease terms. Leasing allows businesses to offer cryotherapy services without making a large initial investment.

Benefits of Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy, particularly whole-body cryotherapy (WBC), has potential benefits in muscle recovery, pain relief, and overall wellness. Research suggests that exposure to extreme cold may trigger physiological responses that can help reduce inflammation and improve circulation and recovery from physical exertion.

A recent review suggests that WBC may lower skin or muscle temperatures similarly to traditional cryotherapy methods like ice packs. While it may not consistently enhance athletic performance, it has been shown to reduce muscle soreness in the short term and improve the perception of recovery after intense activities.

Another literature review evaluating the effects of WBC on recovery after exercise-induced muscle damage found that WBC might help alleviate muscle pain, improve performance, and lower markers of inflammation and muscle damage. These benefits can be particularly useful for athletes or individuals engaging in high-intensity workouts.

Beyond muscle recovery, cryotherapy has been explored for other health and wellness benefits:

Reduced Inflammation: Cold exposure may help suppress inflammatory markers, making it a potential treatment for chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis.

Pain Management: Some studies suggest that cryotherapy may help reduce pain perception in individuals with conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic pain syndromes.

Skin Health and Anti-Aging: Cold therapy may improve blood circulation and stimulate collagen production, leading to improved skin tone and reduced signs of aging.

Mental Well-Being: Exposure to cold temperatures may trigger endorphin release, potentially improving mood and reducing symptoms of anxiety or depression.

Better Immune Function: Some researchers propose that cold exposure may stimulate the immune system, potentially making the body more resilient to illnesses.

While cryotherapy has promising potential, its effects can vary between individuals, and more research is needed to fully understand its long-term benefits.

Pros and Cons of Different Cryotherapy Chambers

Each type of cryotherapy chamber has its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Hybrid Cryo Chambers

Pros:

• Energy-efficient, as they use both electric and nitrogen cooling.

• Provides rapid cooling while reducing nitrogen consumption.

• Can offer a more comfortable experience.

Cons:

• Higher initial investment compared to nitrogen-only chambers.

• Requires both an electrical system and a nitrogen supply, which can add to the complexity.

Nitrogen Cryo Chambers

Pros:

• More affordable upfront cost.

• Capable of reaching extremely low temperatures quickly.

• Compact design, making them easier to install.

Cons:

• Requires a continuous supply of liquid nitrogen, leading to higher long-term operational costs.

• It can have uneven temperature distribution.

• Requires proper ventilation and safety precautions due to nitrogen gas exposure.

Electric Cryo Chambers

Pros:

• No need for liquid nitrogen, reducing long-term operational costs.

• Provides even cooling and temperature consistency.

• Safer than nitrogen-based systems, as there’s no risk of nitrogen gas exposure.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost compared to nitrogen-based chambers.

• Requires significant electrical power, which could increase electricity bills.

• Installation can be more complex due to power requirements.

Conclusion

Investing in a cryotherapy chamber can be a big financial commitment, with costs ranging from £4,000 for localised devices to over £100,000 for high-end whole-body chambers. Factors such as technology, brand, size, and operational expenses all play a role in determining the final price. Whether purchasing or leasing, it is important to consider your needs and budget before making a decision. With proper planning, a cryotherapy chamber can be a valuable asset for wellness and recovery businesses or personal health benefits.