The Whats and Hows of Plunge Pools

Ever wanted to enjoy sunbathing and swimming in your own backyard oasis, without having to deal with the crowds at the local pool? And sure, the Aussie coast is definitely a summer paradise for many enthusiastic swimmers, but not all of us have the time or energy to drive to the beach every time we feel like going for a dip.

That’s why many households are opting for their very own pools as a means to enjoy some leisure time and relaxation in their backyards. These days, having a pool is much cooler than you think, as there are plenty of designs to fit any lifestyle, taste and budget. And one particularly interesting model that’s been making a splash lately is the plunge pool.

What Are Plunge Pools?

When you first look for a plunge pool online you’ll notice that they’re much smaller in size when compared to regular ones. In fact, a plunge pool is typically only around 1.2 metres deep and 4-7 metres long. As the name suggests, these pools are designed for quick cooling plunges or refreshing swims, rather than for laps or other forms of exercise.

What Are the Benefits of Installing Plunge Pools?

People often assume that bigger is always better. But when it comes to pools, that’s not always the case. In fact, plunge pools offer a number of benefits that regular ones don’t, particularly when it comes to size and cost.

Compact Build

Given the smaller overall size, plunge pools can easily be fitted into areas where regular models can’t exactly squeeze in. This is perfect if you don’t have a lot of extra space in your backyard, or if you want to use the pool as more of an ornamental feature.

Many of us struggle with the desire for our own pool but are put off by the thought of a big, gaping hole in our yard. Plunge versions mitigate this by being much more compact and easier to install without too much disruption. They can easily be tucked into a corner or side of the yard without sacrificing too much space.

Easier Cleaning and Maintenance

We all know how important it is to maintain a pool – there is a constant battle with leaves, bugs and other debris. Not to mention the discolouration that can occur over time from the sun and other environmental factors.

Of course, having a larger pool also means more time and effort spent on keeping it sparkling clean. Plunge models, on the other hand, are much easier to take care of as they don’t require as many chemicals and other maintenance products. You can sweep and skim off any debris that’s floating on the surface without having to wade through a large body of water.

Lower Installation Fees

Naturally, anything that’s on the smaller side costs less to install than the larger version. As you’re searching for your ideal plunge pool online or in person, you’ll quickly notice that they come with a lower price tag than regular models.

This is due to the fact that less material is needed and the overall installation process is simpler and quicker. The end result is a cost-effective option that doesn’t require you to break the bank.

Minimal Ongoing Costs

Not only does the initial installation of plunge pools cost less, but they’re also more affordable to maintain in the long run. This is because they don’t require that many chemicals and other pool products to keep things clean and running smoothly.

You’ll also save on energy costs as these pools are much easier to fill up and heat than regular ones. All of this comes together to provide significant savings over time, making plunge pools a smart investment for any household.

Major Considerations

Not all plunge models have the same features or benefits. They tend to differ in more than one aspect, so it’s important to take a closer look at each one before making a decision.

Design and Materials

Whether you want an oval, circular or square pool will depend on both the space you have available as well as your personal preferences. The visual aspects are important too, as you’ll want the design to fit in well with the rest of your backyard.

The material is also something to think about as it will affect the overall durability and lifespan of the pool. Plunge versions are typically made from fibreglass, concrete or vinyl liner, with each option having its own set of pros and cons.

Fibreglass is strong and long-lasting, but it can be more expensive than other materials. Concrete can easily be customised to any shape or size, but it’s also the heaviest option and can crack over time. And finally, vinyl liner is usually the most affordable material, but it doesn’t last as long as concrete or fibreglass.

Available Space

You might be tempted to go for the biggest model you see to be as close to a regular pool as possible. But going bigger isn’t always the best solution, especially if you don’t have a lot of space to work with.

It’s important to take measurements of the area where you want to install the pool and compare it to the dimensions of the plunge models you’re considering. This will ensure that you end up with something that fits well in your backyard without being overbearing or too small.

Additional Features

Some pools have extra features that can make them even more enjoyable to use. Waterfalls and fountains are a popular choice as they help create a whimsical and relaxing atmosphere.

LED lights are another interesting add-on as they can help create a certain mood or ambience in the pool area. Placing them around the perimeter can also make it easier to see at night, which is important for safety reasons.