Polar Active Ice® 3.0 Universal Cold Therapy System
Description
The Active Ice® 3.0 Universal Cold Therapy System is a professional-grade cold therapy system designed to be used on a variety of joints and body parts. Whether you're recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or returning from an injury, this system delivers consistent, controlled, drug-free pain relief directly to the affected area so you can focus on healing. The universal therapy pad provides precise cold therapy exactly where you need it most, making it a versatile solution for whole-body recovery. Often recommended by doctors and physical therapists for post-surgical pain management, joint surgery recovery, and injury rehabilitation.
One (1) 9-Quart Cooling Reservoir | One (1) Universal “U” Therapy Pad | One (1) Elastic & Velcro® Belts | One (1) High-Efficiency Pump | One (1) Programmable Timer & Adjustable Temperature Flow Control | One (1) 12-Volt DC Power Supply
Government Contract: This product is available under contract number GSA-36F79723D0207
Spending Benefit: This product is eligible for FSA/HSA
Polar Active Ice® 3.0 Universal Cold Therapy System
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Multi-Use Cold Therapy
The ergonomically designed universal therapy pad secures comfortably to a variety of joints and body parts with elastic and Velcro® belts, delivering steady, drug-free pain relief directly where you need it most. Versatile enough to target multiple areas of the body for whole-body recovery needs. The insulated outer fabric directs maximum cold therapy to the target area while providing gentle compression for comfortable, effective treatment. High-flow, dry, quick-disconnect couplings allow for freedom of movement when needed. Durable insulated tubing ensures smooth water flow, so unlike traditional ice packs that warm up quickly and slip out of place, the Active Ice® 3.0 circulates cold water continuously for hours, often through the night.
Personalized Cooling at Your Fingertips
Our patent-pending timer allows you to set custom cold therapy "on" and "off" duration cycles per your healthcare provider's instruction — a critical safety feature!
Choose from 4 coldness levels depending on your comfort and desire, and rest easy knowing the convenient on/off button eliminates any potential danger from fumbling in the dark to plug in or unplug your system.
Long-Lasting Cooling
One of the largest cooling reservoirs in the industry, available in a 9-quart or 16-quart size. The 9-quart holds up to six standard size 500 ml frozen water bottles while the 16-quart holds up to twelve — twice the capacity of our biggest competitors — so you get twice the cold therapy before needing a refill.
Frozen water bottles are a reusable, convenient alternative to ice that can be easily swapped out with a fresh set from the freezer once thawed, eliminating the need to drain melted water and making life easier for caregivers too. The hinged lid snaps firmly in place to keep everything sealed and mess-free. Simply add ice or frozen water bottles and you're ready to go.
Quiet Yet Powerful Performance
The whisper-quiet, high-efficiency pump continuously circulates cold water throughout the therapy pad, delivering steady, effective cold therapy without noise or interruption. Powerful enough to keep cold water flowing for hours, yet quiet enough to run through the night without disturbing your sleep.
Terms & Conditions
The following must be read before purchasing the Active Ice® 3.0 Cold Therapy System.
I am currently under the treatment of a physician who has prescribed or recommended a water-circulating cold therapy system, such as the Polar Active Ice® System. I agree to read and use this product in accordance with all instructions, warnings and cautions in the Active Ice® Instruction Manual and/or the instructions given to me by my treating physician. Cryotherapy should not be used by persons with Raynauds, Diabetes or other vasospastic disease, cold hypersensitivity, or compromised local circulation. Always consult with your healthcare provider. I acknowledge that I will assume all responsibility for the use/misuse of this cold therapy product. I will contact my physician immediately in the case of any untoward reactions caused by use of this system. I will contact my physician immediately in the case of any negative reactions caused by use of this system. I will not use this system if I am Diabetic or suffer from poor circulation or neuropathic (nerve) disorders.
Due to health and hygiene regulations, all Active Ice® 3.0 Cold Therapy Systems and parts that are used and/or have had water circulated through them are non-returnable. Brand new systems can be returned with a 15% restocking fee. Please see our warranty below for more information.
Instructions
View Active Ice® Manual
- Fill the Cooling Reservoir with clean, cold water to the fill line.
- Add ice or, for even easier use, frozen standard-size water bottles.
- Connect your Therapy Pad using the quick-disconnect Couplings.
- Place the system where it will be used and plug it into a nearby outlet.
- Connect the Programmable Timer and Temperature Flow Control to the Power Supply and the Reservoir.
- Push the center button of the Programmable Timer and Temperature Flow Control to turn the system on. This will begin the preprogrammed timer cycle. You can then customize your temperature flow settings and timer per your healthcare provider’s directions in regards to treatment time, “on” and “off” cycles, and skin inspection.
Specifications
Universal "U" Therapy Pad
- 10.5" x 11.5" with one (1) detached 3" x 44" elastic belt
- TPU: 100% Thermoplastic Polyurethanes
- Velcro fabric: 100% Polyester Yarn
- Foam tubing: 100% Synthetic Rubber
9-Quart Cooling Reservoir
- 11.5" x 9.5" x 8.5"
- Weighs 5.5 lbs. (without ice or water in the reservoir)
- Programmable Timer & Temperature Flow Control (Patent-Pending)
- Timer cord is 32" from cooling reservoir to remote and 18.5" from remote to plug-in with power supply (50.5" total)
- 5 feet of attached insulated tubing
- 120/240 VAC, 50/60 Hz Adapter converting to 12 VDC, 1.5amp for Active Ice® System operation
OR
16-Quart Cooling Reservoir
- 13" x 17" x 14.5"
- Weighs 7.75 lbs. (without ice or water in the reservoir)
- Retractable handle and wheels for easy portability
- Programmable Timer & Temperature Flow Control (Patent-Pending)
- Timer cord is 32" from cooling reservoir to remote and 18.5" from remote to plug-in with power supply (50.5" total)
- 5 feet of attached insulated tubing
- 120/240 VAC, 50/60 Hz Adapter converting to 12 VDC, 1.5amp for Active Ice® System operation
Safety & Precautions
- The Active Ice® 3.0 System can be cold enough, under certain conditions, to injure the skin.
- Always use an insulation barrier, such as a thin cloth, towel, or clothing, between the therapy pad and the skin.
- Consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use. Provide a complete medical history, specifically any reactions to the cold.
- Certain medical conditions may be more susceptible to cold-related injuries. Ask your practitioner about any potential adverse reactions.
- Caution: use of cold therapy by children, diabetics, incapacitated patients, and those with poor circulation or special skin conditions should be carefully supervised by a medical professional.
- Use only as prescribed by a licensed healthcare practitioner and follow all of his or her instructions regarding the frequency and duration of cold therapy, proper temperature, how and when to check the skin, and length of treatment.
- Completely read and follow all included Operation Instructions, Warnings, and Cautions before using the Active Ice® 3.0 System.
Warranty
One year warranty against any defects in materials and/or workmanship. We will repair or replace, at Polar’s sole discretion, within that timeframe. Contact us at 800-763-8423 or email polar@polarproducts.com.
Shipping & Returns
SHIPPING
Once I place my order, how quickly is it processed and when does it ship?
Orders placed before 12 noon EST, Monday through Friday, typically ship the same day. Orders placed after noon, will ship the next business day. If an order requires more than two days before shipping, we will notify you via phone or email regarding the delay.
Click here for full Shipping Policies
RETURNS
Products may be returned within 30 days of receipt, provided they are in unused, original condition and include all components and packaging. Approved returns are subject to a 10% fee (to cover disassembly, inspection, and restocking). Shipping charges are non-refundable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between the 9-QT and 16-QT Active Ice® Cold Therapy Machine?
Both systems work the same and include the same features, therapy pads, and programmable controls.The main difference is size and cooling time:9-QT: More compact with a flip carry handle, ideal when space and weight matter.16-QT: Larger cooling reservoir holds twice as many frozen water bottles, delivering about twice the cold therapy time between changes. Includes a retractable handle and wheels for easier transport.
How long does the cooling effect last with the Active Ice® Cold Therapy Machine?
Cooling time can vary based on several factors, but many customers report 6–8 hours of cooling with the 9-quart system. The 16-quart system typically provides 12–16 hours between ice changes.
Several things affect how long the cooling lasts:
Body Heat: Everyone generates different levels of body heat. As the system pulls heat away from the treated area, the ice or frozen bottles will melt. This is a sign the therapy is working.
Cycle Time: Longer therapy sessions will require more frequent ice or bottle changes. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommended therapy schedule.
Cooling Setting: Higher flow settings (1–4) deliver colder therapy but use ice faster. Lower settings help extend cooling time.
Type of Ice Used: Frozen water bottles last significantly longer than loose ice. That’s why Active Ice® Systems are designed to hold standard 16 oz frozen water bottles, creating a larger, longer-lasting cooling source than traditional ice.
Is the Active Ice® Cold Therapy Machine suitable for post-surgical recovery?
Yes. The Active Ice® Cold Therapy System is commonly used for post-surgical recovery, post-injury care, and general pain management. It delivers consistent, localized cold therapy to help reduce swelling, calm inflammation, minimize muscle spasms, and provide drug-free pain relief. With a variety of therapy pad options for different body parts, it can support recovery for a wide range of needs.
How does the Polar Active Ice® Cold Therapy Machine help with recovery?
Our systems deliver consistent cold therapy with gentle compression while the insulated outer fabric helps direct maximum cooling to the targeted area. Cold therapy works by slowing blood flow to the injury, which may help reduce swelling, minimize muscle spasms, and support the body’s natural recovery process. All with effective, drug-free pain relief.
Why Should I Choose the Active Ice® Cold Therapy Machine?
- Family-owned and operated small business based in Ohio, USA Designed, engineered, and assembled in the USA for quality you can trust.
- Dedicated, on-site customer service team — we answer our phones and emails!
- Manufacturing, engineering, and operations all handled in-house.
- Programmable timer and adjustable flow control with 4 coldness levels. Set custom on and off therapy cycles per your healthcare provider's instructions — a critical safety feature!
- Large cooling reservoir designed to hold frozen 16.9 oz water bottles instead of ice for longer-lasting cold, reusability, and no draining melted ice water.
Are Active Ice® Therapy Pads interchangeable between body parts?
Yes. All Active Ice® Therapy Pads are designed to work with the same control unit. If you already own an Active Ice® System, you don't need a whole new setup to treat a different area, just purchase a separate Therapy Pad. Click here to view all Therapy Pad Options.
Accessories
- 5 stars: 158 (81%)
- 4 stars: 27 (14%)
- 3 stars: 5 (3%)
- 2 stars: 3 (2%)
- 1 star: 1 (1%)
The Universal Cold Therapy System works great allowing me to schedule on and off sessions for the day.
Hi Thomas, thanks for the great review! We’re glad our Active Ice® Universal Cold Therapy System is working well and that you're enjoying the features of the Programmable Timer & Temperature Flow Control!
Bought after I borrowed one from a friend. A part broke and the customer service Polar was so amazing that we bought one!
Hi there, thanks for sharing your experience! We’re so glad our customer service team could help make your decision easy and that you’re enjoying your own Active Ice® Cold Therapy System. We appreciate your support!
The ice machine has been a major help following many surgeries and accidents in our family. I just found out how awesome their customer service is when I needed info and sent a note on Friday night. I was surprised to get a response so quickly and they went above and beyond to help me! Highly recommend!
Hi there, thank you so much for sharing this! We’re happy to hear that our Active Ice® Cold Therapy System has been a helpful part of your family’s recovery, and that our team could assist when you needed us. We truly appreciate your recommendation and wish your family all the best!
Your cold water therapy system rocks. This is my third cold water therapy machine, my first polar. It far exceeds all the others I have tried. They last, one surgery and I need a new one.
Hi John, we're thrilled to hear you're so satisfied with the Polar Active Ice® 3.0! Thank you for trusting us for your recovery needs. Wishing you continued health and comfort!
My Total Knee Replacement occurred 27 days ago. Since then, your Polar 3.0 has become my best friend. It has eliminated the need for opioid pain medication. Miraculous and a true blessing! Thank you!!!
We're so happy to hear our Polar Active Ice® 3.0 has made such a positive impact on your recovery, especially providing drug-free pain relief. Wishing you continued comfort and healing!
I have just used your system once. My knee surgery is next week.
We're glad to hear you're preparing for your surgery. Wishing you a smooth procedure and quick recovery. If you need any assistance with the system, we're here to help!
Easy to use. Reduces pain and Inflammation. I like the adjustable timer and temperature. Really great product for shoulder Injury
Bought this for my upcoming TKR next week. Unfortunately it is cancelled for several months. I was impressed with how quickly it arrived, neatly packaged and looks easy to assemble. Will hope to use in in 2027
Best purchase ever!!!
One week post-op full knee replacement and the Polar Active Ice is a must have! I think the surgery center should provide these to all patients.
Just had a TKR yesterday and this machine is an absolute lifesaver!!!
My wife has been relying on this cold therapy unit throughout her recovery from rotator cuff surgery, and it has truly made a remarkable difference. We've programmed it for 30-minute cooling sessions followed by 90-minute intervals off, and I rotate six frozen water bottles twice daily to keep it running smoothly. This device has played a pivotal role in accelerating her healing process while effectively managing her pain—highly recommended for anyone in a similar situation!
This is one of the few ice machines WITH a timer which is a must have. I would not have gotten through my full knee replacement without it, especially the first week. It literally was a life saver. Highly recommended!
Bought the polar ice 3.0 and it is fantastic for my ankle. Customer service were amazing, replacing the ankle boot for a smaller one.
I have owned and used 3 of the Breg's cold therapy units over the past 6 years. In a short period of time, all three quit pumping water through the lines. In preparation for another knee replacement, I was getting ready to buy another Breg machine because I was told that they were the top of the line. My daughter told me how satisfied she was with her Polar unit, so I bought the 16 quart unit through Amazon. It is far superior to the Breg units. The pump has outlasted the Breg pumps by double and there is no sign of it quitting. The wheels are also a nice touch and the timer that turns the unit on automatically is a lifesaver especially the first couple of weeks after surgery when I could set it for on for 20 minutes and than off for 40 minutes without waking up in the middle of the night to do it manually. I liked it so much that I bought the smaller 9 quart unit directly from Polar Active so that I could use it on my back while the 16 quart was working on my knee. I haven't been this blown away by a product for a long time. Better than advertised.
I needed an ice machine or ice packs for my knee replacement. The Polar Ice works so well that I find it hard to believe there is any better unit for surgeries like I had
This is a great ice machine and well worth the money. Having at timer was a game changer for me during rotator cuff surgery. It allowed me to keep Ice on all night long.
Had knee replacement 7 months ago. Used my machine every day, for the first two months all day long. It never let me down! Great must have for ice therapy! Recommend it to my surgeon and many friends!
First off, outstanding customer support, I had some questions on shipping and was taken care of immediately. Thanks Jess. I picked up a Active Ice® 3.0 Universal Cold Therapy System, 9-Quart Cooling Reservoir on the recommendation from Dr. Sam of Succeed. Awesome cooler, I bought it for my upcoming knee replacement and have tried it out on my bad knee. Works great. I highly recommend.
Very helpful with pain management following a broken femur. Easy to use, durable and the wheels and handle are very sturdy. Great quality product would highly recommend.
Purchased to help after Hip Replacement. Definitely need an Ice Machine after this procedure regardless of what anyone says. More features than the one they offer at the hospital. Extremely Satisfied.
Don't know what we would have done without it, made icing after total knee replacement much easier, more consistent and more effective. Customer service was top notch in helping us, an amazing company. Highly recommend!!!
My dad just had knee surgery and we got this for him for recovery. This machine is absolutely amazing! He loves how it works and how it ices his knee. He loves all the settings and the convenience of the timer. This is a great machine and great for recovery
I have been using the double cold therapy system for a partial knee replacement on both of my knees. I was worried the system might have issues with a split into two separate pads, but the system has worked like a charm. Water is easily pumped to both pads simultaneously with no issues whatsoever. Prior reviewers recommended using frozen water bottles to keep the water cold and rotating the bottles. This recommendation has also worked like a charm and made the use of the system extremely easy. I can easily attach the pads to my knees myself, which is important if help is not always available. I highly recommend this product and in fact a friend has recently purchased the same unit for a single knee.
Purchased for rotator cuff surgery recovery. Simple to use. Stays cold for a long time. You just need to sit and use the remote control. I hate taking pain meds and having this system continuously icing me has effectively taken the place of the awful nauseating pain medication. Works like a charm.
So easy to use. Continuous Polar care to body. Love the timer, and that you can order extension tubing for the product. Highly Recommend. Well worth the money.
A friend recommended I purchase a cold therapy system prior to shoulder surgery and I'm so glad I did. After doing some research I decided on this one because of it's superior features. At 16 qts. it's large enough to load it with 12 frozen water bottles which last for almost 2 days. It has a wired remote for customized settings, i.e. length of time on and off plus rate of water flow. The remote allows me to have control and not depend on someone else to adjust settings or turn the machine on or off. This unit also has wheels for easy transfer from recliner to bed. No need for anyone to pick up a cooler filled with ice and water. There are less expensive models available but this one is definitely worth every cent.
Cooling Reservoir is compact and easy to maintain sessions. The ability to use frozen bottles of water instead of actual ice is a huge plus.
Bought for my Total Knee Replacement surgery. It proved to be an essential piece of equipment in my recovery. Bought the knee compression sleeve also which was wonderful addition! Used frozen water bottles instead to cubes which is ingenious!