Plunge Pool Guide: Cost, Sizes & Benefits for Your Backyard

Published April 1, 2025
A plunge pool is a small, compact swimming pool designed primarily for relaxation and cooling off. Unlike traditional pools, which require significant space and maintenance. Plunge pools offer a cost-effective alternative for homeowners with limited backyard space.
What Is a Plunge Pool?
A plunge pool is essentially a miniature swimming pool without the footprint of a full-sized pool. These pools are typically shallow, with a depth ranging between five to seven feet. Making them ideal for lounging, hydrotherapy, and quick dips. Despite their smaller size, plunge pools can be just as enjoyable and aesthetically pleasing as larger pools.

Plunge Pool vs. Regular Pool
The distinction between plunge pools stands in their different measurements when compared to standard pools. Traditional swimming pools function for swimming along with exercise while entertaining many people. Yet plunge pools serve mainly for leisure purposes and cooling down.
Small pool dimensions minimize ownership costs because they need less regular maintenance. The dimensions of plunge pools remain too restricted to perform swimming laps or perform diving sessions. Homeowners should seek a low-cost compact pool system suitable as an alternative to conventional swimming pools.
Plunge Pool Sizes
Plunge pools serve a wide range of backyard plans because they exist in different dimensions. Standard plunge pools occupy areas between 7 feet by 13 feet and 10 feet by 20 feet reaching depths between 5 to 7 feet in height. The market offers compact pools that function perfectly in restricted city lots. The planned depth permits soothing submersion that combines swimming over shallows. The selection process for a plunge pool requires proper evaluation of your backyard dimensions.

How Much Does a Plunge Pool Cost?
The major benefit of selecting a plunge pool is its lower cost when compared to traditional swimming pools. A plunge pool typically costs between $10,000 and $20,000 based on its dimensions together with construction materials. A custom plunge pool tends to cost significantly more because luxury features will affect the total bill. Homeowners need to include costs for permits as well as installation expenses together with funds for long-term maintenance. At the beginning of ownership, plunge pools appear expensive but they prove financially worthwhile.
Can a Plunge Pool Be Heated?
Yes! Homeowners usually add heating systems to their plunge pools for year-round use of warm water. A homeowners has three heating system choices which are electric heaters alongside gas heaters. The heated plunge pool brings hydrotherapy benefits through hot water that helps relax your muscles.
What Is a Cold Plunge Pool?
The cold plunge pool stands as a specific design for therapeutic waters that operate at freezing temperatures. Therapeutic swimming pools serve professional athletes and wellness-oriented individuals who use them to diminish inflammation as well as accelerate muscle healing. Home spa owners should keep their cold plunge pools at temperatures between 50°F and 60°F.
Can a Plunge Pool Have Jets?
Absolutely! The installation of built-in jet systems serves to maximize the relaxation value of plunge pools. Jets within water create pleasant movement which produces spa-like conditions. The popularity of jet systems as plunge pool additions meets two needs: hydrothermal care and improved comfort.
Are Plunge Pools Safe for Kids?
Plunge pools function effectively as backyard family features but family members must take safety measures. Traditional pools exceed plunge pools in size and depth therefore they might work better for active uses. To minimize child accidents adults must install safety covers and non-slip surfaces.
Can You DIY a Plunge Pool?
The construction of a plunge pool falls within personal reach when you have the correct planning steps. People build their own plunge pools by utilizing concrete as well as fiberglass materials and discarded items. When professionals install the plunge pool they keep it safe while ensuring it meets all local guidelines.
FAQs
What is the purpose of a plunge pool?
A plunge pool is designed for relaxation, cooling off, and hydrotherapy. It provides a compact and efficient way to enjoy the benefits of a pool without requiring a large space.
What is the difference between a plunge pool and a normal pool?
A plunge pool is smaller and shallower than a standard swimming pool. It is primarily for lounging and cooling off rather than swimming laps or hosting large gatherings.
What are the disadvantages of a plunge pool?
Plunge pools have limited space, making them unsuitable for lap swimming or large groups. They also have a shallow depth, which means diving and jumping may not be possible.
What is the meaning of plunge pool?
A plunge pool is a small, deep pool designed for cooling off and relaxation, often used in spa settings or compact backyard spaces.
What is considered a plunge pool?
A pool is considered a plunge pool if it is ranging from 6 to 10 feet in width and 10 to 20 feet in length, with a depth of around 5 to 7 feet.
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About The Author
Meet Rei Bayucca, a seasoned writer with extensive expertise across multiple industries. Her mission is to captivate and enlighten readers with insightful and masterfully-written articles that both inspire and inform.