Is a Plunge Pool Right for You?
Imagine dreaming of your own swimming pool, but every time you look out into your garden, all you see is a small, cramped space. Dreams shattered, right? Not necessarily. One of the hottest trends in swimming pools is the plunge pool, perfect for gardens where space is limited and a traditional, full-size swimming pool simply isn’t an option.
In this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive overview of plunge pools and help you decide if it’s time to make one the centerpiece of your garden oasis.
What is a plunge pool?
In the past, homeowners needed a large garden to accommodate a correspondingly large structure to have a swimming pool. Even a smaller pool could take up at least 40 to 60 square meters of space, including the pool itself and surrounding landscaping.
Many homeowners either don’t have that kind of garden or can’t afford the space.
The solution is the plunge pool, essentially a “honey, I shrunk the pool.” It falls between a hot tub and a full-size pool in terms of size and fits even in the smallest backyard. Most plunge pools are 6 meters or less in length, 2.5 meters or less in width, and a maximum of 1.5 meters deep.
This size offers homeowners flexibility in placement. A small backyard, a side yard, or even a large conservatory could be the perfect spot for a plunge pool.
Benefits of a Plunge Pool
Of course, you won’t be doing Olympic-level training or playing a 20-person water polo match in a plunge pool. But a pool of this size can still offer many health benefits and plenty of fun.
A plunge pool is ideal for aquatic rehabilitation or exercise. Install Jacuzzi jets for a soothing massage or swim jets for effective resistance training. Hydrotherapy and low-impact water aerobics are possible in a plunge pool. Plunge pools can be beneficial to your health in the long run.
Although its small size limits certain activities, you can still enjoy plenty of time in the water. It’s a great place to cool off after a long day at work and, with optional heaters, can even be used on cold winter days.
Another major advantage is likely the price. Due to its smaller size, purchase and installation are often significantly cheaper than for a conventional pool. You’ll also have lower maintenance and chemical costs, as well as lower electricity bills.
How much does a plunge pool cost?
If a plunge pool is less than half the size of a regular pool, you might assume it costs less than half as much.
This is generally true, but not always.
Smaller plunge pools are usually less expensive. The fibreglass pool liner is less expensive than for a full-size pool, and less excavation, earthworks, and landscaping are required.
A large portion of the cost of installing a pool can come from extras you choose to add. Do you want lighting? How about a water feature? Would you like to heat your pool so you can use it year-round? Would you like a massage function integrated? All these extras can significantly increase the cost of your pool. The size and layout of your garden can also affect installation costs.
Your Leisure Pools dealer can help you put together a pool package that fits your budget.
Can you build a plunge pool yourself?
This question comes up frequently due to the small size of plunge pools.
The answer is yes, it’s technically possible, but definitely not recommended.
Installing an in-ground fibreglass pool involves many factors – from excavation and leveling to plumbing, earthworks, and much more. Your Leisure Pools dealer has professional pool installers on staff, many of whom have years of experience installing pools. They know where and how deep to dig, how to ensure the pool won’t leak, and what permits are required in your area.
Furthermore, you should hire a certified installer or contractor. Failure to do so may void your warranty.
Even though installing a small pool might seem simpler, remember that you will still need to cut into your pool to install skimmers, return lines, and possibly main drains. It’s essential that your pool allows for clean and safe water circulation. Your pool professional will know what’s important.
Also, don’t forget that your pool should be safe. It’s best to discuss the best way to achieve this – whether it’s by installing a fence around the garden or a pool enclosure.
Leisure Pools Plunge Pools
Leisure Pools offers two models of plunge pools, one of which should be perfect for your garden.
Leisure Pools Fiji Plunge
The Fiji Plunge is a traditional plunge pool—small, almost square, and compact enough to fit in almost any space. This pool has a flat bottom and generous entry and exit steps on one side. It also features a wide bench, perfect for spa jets. At 2.9 meters long, you can easily install swim jets and enjoy a perfect swim workout.
The Leisure Pools Esprit
The Esprit is a full 5.70 m long and offers plenty of space for swimming and relaxing. It features a long bench that runs the entire length of the pool. Its design allows for placement close to the house or a fence. Thanks to the steps at both ends of the bench, The Esprit is versatile and a fully functional swimming pool even for narrow yards.
Is a Plunge Pool Right for You?
Whether a plunge pool is right for you depends on a few key considerations. Many of the questions you ask when choosing a large pool also apply to a plunge pool.
One important point is that smaller gardens can sometimes make installation more difficult, as space is limited and excavation and landscaping can be more challenging. Your Leisure Pools dealer can help you assess potential challenges in your garden.
Most importantly, honestly evaluate how you and your family plan to use the pool. If you’re looking to use the pool to relax after a long run, the Fiji Plunge with its massage function could be perfect for soothing muscles and promoting recovery. If you prefer spending enjoyable evenings with your partner or friends in the pool, the Esprit, with its creative design and more room to move around, might be the better choice.
Check out all the options on Our Pool Styles page and then talk to your local Leisure Pools dealer. They can offer further advice and a free consultation to help you get one step closer to your “Life of Leisure”!
