Plunge Pools: Types, Costs, Benefits, and Installation

What Are Plunge Pools?

Plunge pools are compact, deep pools designed primarily for cooling off and relaxation rather than lap swimming. They have become a popular option for homeowners who want the refreshing benefits of a pool but have limited space or want a more affordable alternative to traditional full-sized swimming pools.

Typically, plunge pools range from 4 to 8 feet deep and are smaller in footprint—often as compact as 7 by 7 feet up to about 20 by 12 feet. Their smaller size results in lower water and energy use, less chemical consumption, and reduced maintenance requirements compared to standard pools.

In contrast to traditional pools, plunge pools often feature flat bottoms and consistent depths, making them ideal for standing, lounging, or therapeutic uses rather than diving or swimming laps. They are also highly customizable in size and features, allowing homeowners to tailor the pool to their yard and lifestyle needs.

Benefits of Plunge Pools

• Space-efficient: Their small footprint fits well in urban or compact yards.
• Lower costs: Both installation and maintenance costs are reduced compared to larger pools.
• Energy and water savings: Smaller volumes mean faster heating and less chemical use.
• Year-round usability: Many plunge pools can be heated efficiently for use in cooler months.
• Versatility in installation: Can be installed in-ground, above-ground, or semi-in-ground, adapting to various yard terrains including slopes.
• Customization: Options include lighting, jets, water features, tiling, and sitting walls.

Types of Plunge Pools

There are several construction types for plunge pools, each with unique characteristics, installation needs, and costs:

Concrete Plunge Pools

These pools are built similarly to traditional poured concrete foundations. The construction process includes forming a steel-reinforced concrete shell roughly 4 inches thick, then applying waterproofing membranes and porcelain tile finishes.

Concrete pools offer great durability and design flexibility. They can be installed in-ground, semi-in-ground (with the upper 12 to 18 inches above grade), or even above ground if the exterior is properly finished. Their robust construction allows for integration of design elements like built-in benches and custom steps.

Site preparation involves excavation, laying a compacted gravel base, trenching for plumbing and electrical lines, and access planning for heavy machinery such as cranes or boom trucks to position the pool shell.

Steel Shipping Container Pools

Repurposed steel shipping containers cut horizontally form the structure of these pools. The base becomes the pool basin, often lined with a durable fiberglass shell that includes molded-in steps and seating. The exterior is coated with tough paint and multilayer protective finishes.

One end of the container typically houses a mechanical closet for pumps, filters, and control systems. Heaters are usually installed nearby but separate for noise and ventilation control. These pools can be installed above ground, in-ground, or on slopes without the need for expensive retaining walls.

Prefab Kit Pools

For Do-It-Yourself enthusiasts, some manufacturers offer steel panel kits with vinyl liners. These kits allow homeowners to assemble the pool on site by bolting steel panels together, installing a waterproof liner, and making plumbing connections.

This method reduces labor costs but requires basic construction skills and tools. Such kits generally install above ground with minimal excavation.

Installation Process

The installation of a plunge pool depends on the type chosen. However, general steps include:

1. Site Preparation: Excavation of the hole larger than pool dimensions followed by a laser-leveling of the surface.
2. Base Formation: Approximately 18 inches of crushed stone is poured and compacted into the excavation to form a stable base.
3. Pool Placement: Delivery trucks and cranes carefully lift and position the pool into the hole. Due to weight, such as up to 18,000 pounds for some models, precise handling is required.
4. Mechanical Placement: Installation of pumps, filters, plumbing, heaters, and electrical systems. A dedicated mechanical closet or adjacent space is often prepared for ease of maintenance.
5. Finishing Touches: Application of tiling, coping, water features, and pool lighting according to the design.

For concrete pools, curing and waterproofing layers are critical steps following concrete pouring, usually taking multiple weeks for full readiness.

Mechanical and Heating Systems

Plunge pools use many of the same mechanical components as traditional pools:

• Filtration systems: Pumps and filters to maintain water cleanliness.
• Sanitation: Chlorine or saltwater systems.
• Heating: Often connected to natural gas or electric heat pumps for comfort and extended usability.
• Jets and Features: Jets can create spa-like experiences or resistance currents for exercise.

Mechanical equipment is usually installed near the pool but placed strategically to minimize noise and visual impact. Plumbing lines for heaters and pumps may require trenches from the pool to the house or equipment pad.

Cost Considerations

While plunge pools generally cost less than traditional full-size pools, the price varies significantly by type, size, and features.

Additional costs include heating systems, landscaping, water features, and lighting. While smaller, premium features like tiled surfaces, infinity edges, or high-end water jets can add costs that approach those of larger pools.

Design Options and Features

Plunge pools are highly customizable and can include:

• Built-in steps and benches for ease of access and relaxation.
• Lighting systems for ambiance and evening swims.
• Jets and resistance currents for spa-like experiences or fitness training.
• Water features such as fountains or small waterfalls.
• Infinity edges or overflow treatments for advanced aesthetics.
• Sitting walls around semi-in-ground pools for lounging and integration into landscaping.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Due to their size, plunge pools require less routine maintenance than traditional pools, but some considerations include:

• Regular cleaning and skimming; smaller surface area reduces debris accumulation.
• Water chemistry balancing; less water means quicker availability of chemicals but also requires vigilant monitoring.
• Filter maintenance and periodic pump servicing.
• Covering the pool when not in use to reduce debris and chemical use.
• If heated, seasonal checks on heating equipment for efficiency and safety.

Who Should Consider a Plunge Pool?

A plunge pool is ideal for:

• Homeowners with limited yard space who still want a pool experience.
• Those focused on relaxation, hydrotherapy, or cooling off rather than large-scale swimming.
• Families who want a lower-cost alternative to large pools yet appreciate high-end design elements.
• Those wanting a pool in challenging terrain such as sloped lots where traditional pools are difficult or expensive.

Note: Plunge pools are generally not suitable for diving or water sports requiring greater pool depth, as they are typically 4 to 5.5 feet deep.

FAQs About Plunge Pools

Q: How deep are typical plunge pools?

A: They usually range from 4 to 8 feet deep, commonly around 4 to 5.5 feet. This depth is perfect for standing, relaxing, or cooling off, but not for diving.

Q: Can plunge pools be heated?

A: Yes, plunge pools can be equipped with heaters, either gas or electric heat pumps, making them usable year-round and comfortable even in cooler weather.

Q: How long does it take to install a plunge pool?

A: Installation typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for concrete pools due to curing times. Prefabricated steel or fiberglass plunge pools can be installed much faster, sometimes within a few days once the site is prepared.

Q: Are plunge pools safe for children?

A: While plunge pools are often safer due to their shallow and consistent depth, supervision is always necessary, especially since they are deep enough for full submersion but shallow for safe diving.

Q: What are the main cost factors for plunge pools?

A: Factors include pool type, size, site preparation difficulty, installation complexity, and optional features like heating, lighting, and water treatments.