Don’t let money or space prevent you from enjoying a backyard pool. A plunge pool is a compact and inexpensive swimming pool that lets you enjoy a dip in your own backyard. It offers many of the same benefits as a regular pool and, despite common belief, it can be used as warm as you’d like.
Discover everything you need to know about plunge pools in this month’s article. We’ll explain their uses, their benefits and how deep they can go.
What is a plunge pool?
In its simplest form, a plunge pool is a highly compact swimming pool. Just like regular swimming pools, plunge pools can be built in or above ground and can be customised to various shapes and sizes. Typically, plunge pools run from 6.5ft-10ft wide and 10ft-22ft long. Anything beyond that creeps into regular pool territory.
What is the purpose of a plunge pool?
Plunge pools are typically filled with cold water for the user to ‘plunge’ into following a sauna. You might find these types of plunge pools at spas or leisure centres. However, residential plunge pools can be heated to any temperature you like.
Though you can’t swim in them, plunge pools can be used for aquatic rehabilitation or exercise. The resistance of the water makes it great for standing resistance workouts and low-impact water aerobics, both of which provide lasting health benefits.
And, if nothing else, your plunge pool provides a great place to cool off and relax after a long day.
How deep are plunge pools?
We’ve spoken about how large a plunge pool can be, but how deep can they go?
Well there is no rule dictating how deep a plunge pool must be. Technically they can be as deep as you’d like — or as deep as the ground allows — but most are around 4-8ft deep. Those looking to exercise in the plunge pool might need it to be on the deeper side, whereas those who just want a place to relax probably want to be able to stand up in it without being fully submerged.
Can a plunge pool be DIY?
Due to the size of the plunge pool, a common question is whether they can be installed DIY or whether a professional is needed. While some plunge pools can technically be installed DIY, it is strongly discouraged.
Despite being small, there are still a lot of factors that go into building a plunge pool. There’s digging, levelling, plumbing and backfilling just to name a few. For the best results, we strongly recommend using a trusted pool builder to install your plunge pool
Aqua Blue Pools design, build and maintain luxury pools in the South Carolina SC area. With over 30 years’ experience and countless awards under our belt, we’re trusted to build pools of all types and sizes. Whether you want a simple plunge pool or an infinity pool with various water features, we can bring your dream pool to life.