Is a Plunge Pool Right for You?

A plunge pool could be the perfect solution if you’ve been dreaming of having your own swimming pool but feel your backyard is just too small. If that sounds like you, a compact design from Leisure Pools might be exactly what you need. These space-saving options are revolutionizing how homeowners with limited outdoor areas can still enjoy the luxury and benefits of pool ownership.

Plunge pools are compact swimming pools designed specifically for smaller spaces. Standing beautifully between a spa and traditional swimming pool in terms of size, these innovative pools provide many of the benefits of full-sized pools without requiring extensive backyard real estate.

Most fiberglass plunge pools measure 20 feet or less in length, typically 8 feet or narrower in width, and maintain a consistent depth of around 5 feet with a flat bottom design. This compact footprint opens up possibilities for installation in spaces that could never accommodate traditional pools:

• Small urban backyards
• Side yards previously considered unusable
• Interior spaces like sunrooms or enclosed patios
• Courtyards and compact garden areas

The rising popularity of plunge pools reflects changing lifestyles and housing trends. As urban living becomes more common and lot sizes decrease, homeowners are seeking creative solutions to maximize their outdoor enjoyment without sacrificing their entire yard to a single feature.

While you won’t be hosting Olympic swimming trials in your plunge pool, these compact water features offer numerous advantages that make them an excellent investment:

Perfect for Exercise and Therapy

A plunge pool creates an ideal environment for:

• Water-based rehabilitation exercises
• Low-impact aquatic workouts
• Hydrotherapy sessions with optional spa jets
• Resistance swimming with installed swim jets

Year-Round Enjoyment

Unlike larger pools that might sit unused during cooler months, plunge pools can be:

• Quickly heated for year-round use (with optional heaters)
• Used as a refreshing cool-down spot during summer
• More affordable to maintain at comfortable temperatures
• Easily covered when not in use

Significant Cost Advantages

The compact nature of in ground plunge pools translates to financial benefits across multiple areas:

• Lower initial purchase and installation costs (potentially half the price of traditional pools)
• Reduced ongoing maintenance expenses
• Smaller chemical requirements
• Lower utility bills for heating and circulation
• Less water consumption (approximately 1,200 gallons versus 20,000+ gallons)

Design Flexibility

Today’s fiberglass plunge pools come in various creative designs that can:

• Serve as stunning focal points in landscape design
• Incorporate beautiful water features
• Include specialty lighting for evening ambiance
• Feature comfortable seating and therapy jets

One of the most common questions about plunge pools concerns their cost. While the smaller size does typically mean lower overall investment, several factors influence the final price:

Base Costs

A high-quality fiberglass plunge pool installation generally starts at a lower price point than traditional pools. While a large 30-40 foot swimming pool might require an investment exceeding $70,000, plunge pools can often be installed for significantly less, depending on your specific choices and requirements.

Factors Affecting Cost

Several elements can influence your total investment:

• Size and model selection
• Installation complexity based on your property
• Optional features (heating, lighting, water features)
• Surrounding deck or patio construction
• Additional landscaping requirements
• Local permitting requirements

 Plunge Pool Value Considerations

When evaluating plunge pool costs, consider these value perspectives:

• The per-square-foot cost may be similar to larger pools
• The total investment remains substantially lower
• The usable months per year might be higher with heating options
• The maintenance costs over time will be reduced
• The property value enhancement can be significant

For the most accurate pricing, consult with a professional dealer who can assess your specific site and requirements. They can provide detailed estimates based on your property’s unique characteristics and your desired features.

Given their smaller size, some homeowners wonder if plunge pools can be self-installed. While technically possible, professional installation is strongly recommended for several important reasons:

Critical Installation Considerations

Even compact pools require expertise in:

• Proper excavation and precise leveling
• Professional-grade plumbing installation
• Appropriate electrical connections and safety systems
• Proper backfilling techniques to prevent shifting
• Local building code compliance and permitting

Warranty Protection

Many manufacturers, including Leisure Pools, require professional installation to maintain warranty coverage. Using certified installers protects your investment and ensures adherence to industry standards.

Enhanced Features

Professional installers can properly integrate specialized features like:

• Strategically positioned water jets
• Efficient filtration systems
• Properly installed lighting
• Integrated water features
• Safety covers and fencing
• Automatic pool covers that provide safety, heat retention and reduced maintenance

Leisure Pools offers several exceptional plunge pool designs to match different space requirements and aesthetic preferences:

The Fiji Plunge

This traditional plunge pool model features:

• Compact 9’6″ square design
• Flat bottom for consistent depth
• Generous entry/exit steps
• Wide bench perfect for optional spa jets
• Ideal dimensions for swim jet installation

The Palladium Plunge

Available in 16′ and 20′ lengths, this model offers:

• Elongated design perfect for narrow spaces
• Entry/exit steps with integrated seating
• Wrap-around bench at the opposite end
• Flat bottom with consistent 5′ depth
• Elegant, sophisticated aesthetic

Beyond dedicated plunge pool models, several smaller traditional pools can work beautifully in compact spaces. These offer slightly larger swimming areas while still fitting in modest yards.

Before deciding on a plunge pool, consider these important lifestyle factors:

Space Considerations

While plunge pools require less space, installation in very tight areas may present unique challenges. A professional dealer can assess your specific location to identify any potential complications.

Family Needs

Unlike traditional pools with varying depths, plunge pools maintain a consistent depth throughout (typically around 5′). This design may not be ideal for families with very young children still learning to swim.

Usage Patterns

Consider how you envision using your pool:

• For therapeutic relaxation with spa jets
• As a resistance swimming venue with swim jets
• For cooling off during hot summer days
• For year-round enjoyment with heating options
• As a social gathering spot with seating areas

Design Integration

Think about how a plunge pool will complement your overall outdoor living space:

• As a stunning centerpiece in a compact garden
• Integrated with a deck or patio area
• Enhanced with surrounding landscaping
• Combined with other outdoor living features

When searching for “plunge pools near me,” look for authorized dealers with experience in small-space installations. Professional dealers offer numerous advantages:

• In-person consultations to assess your specific space
• Detailed knowledge of local building requirements
• Access to manufacturer training and support
• Warranty-approved installation methods
• Ongoing service and maintenance support

The compact nature of plunge pools has inspired incredible creativity in their implementation. Consider these inspiring approaches:

Indoor-Outdoor Integration

• Install near large glass doors for seamless indoor-outdoor flow
• Create a partially covered installation for all-weather use
• Design a sunroom enclosure for year-round enjoyment

Multi-Purpose Installations

• Combine with a small deck for sunbathing
• Integrate an adjacent fire feature for contrast
• Include a small waterfall or fountain element

Space-Maximizing Designs

• Install flush with surrounding decking for a seamless look
• Use innovative cover systems that double as usable space
• Incorporate clever storage solutions in surrounding structures

Ready to explore how a plunge pool could transform your outdoor living space? Visit our pool designs page to review all available options. Then, contact your local Leisure Pools dealer for a personalized consultation and free estimate.

A plunge pool might be exactly what you need to create your own backyard retreat, proving that you don’t need a massive space to enjoy the incredible benefits of pool ownership. Start your journey toward your well-deserved “Life of Leisure” today.