Plunge
Pools

What is a Plunge Pool?

A plunge pool is a specialized type of swimming pool, typically smaller and shallower than standard pools. Plunge pools are designed with relaxation, cooling off, and therapeutic needs at their core. The pool’s compact size and shallow depth make them an accessible option for a range of properties, from smaller urban settings to larger suburban spaces, and they can be customized to accommodate different spatial needs.

Energy Efficiency

What sets plunge pools apart from regular pools is their high energy efficiency. Given their reduced size and water volume, they require less power to heat, maintain, and filter than their larger counterparts. Plunge pools also require substantially less water than full sized pools making them more eco-friendly and easy to keep clean. Looking for a more affordable and low-maintenance swimming pool option than traditional pools? Consider a plunge pool and enjoy greater savings and efficiency for years to come!

Plunge Pool Versatility 

Despite their modest size, plunge pools are a powerhouse of versatility. They are not just for a refreshing plunge during hot summers but can serve as a year-round relaxation hub. The calming effect of water coupled with the serene ambiance that a small plunge pool often provides can be therapeutic. Some homeowners install hydrotherapy jets in small pools for added therapeutic benefits, aiding in pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Fitness & Water Activities

In addition, most plunge pools can be converted into a fitness area with the right accessories. For instance, installing swim jets can create a current to swim against, offering a low-impact, full-body workout. Aquatic exercises in plunge pools can cater to a variety of fitness levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes, and are particularly beneficial for those seeking a gentler form of exercise due to joint issues or recovery from injuries.

Barrier Reef Plunge Pools | The Perfect Addition to Any Home

Barrier Reef’s sleek selection of plunge pools are designed to seamlessly blend into the design of any property, regardless of its size or style. With space optimization at the core of our design philosophy, even small backyards can be transformed into a luxurious relaxation zone. One of our most popular models is the Escape, which features a wide swim lane and optional swim jets, making it perfect for relaxation, exercise, or even as a small, backyard pool or retreat. 

Plunge pools are far more than just a stylish place to cool off. They offer a unique combination of relaxation, therapy, and fitness, all the while being a space-efficient, environmentally conscious, and visually appealing addition to your property. If you have been considering investing in a pool this year, consider speaking to our team of passionate professionals today. 

Commonly Asked Questions About Plunge Pools

Why Would I Want a Plunge Pool?

Choosing a plunge pool for your property can bring a wealth of benefits. Here are several reasons why a plunge pool might be the perfect addition to your home:

Space Efficiency:

Plunge pools are an excellent option for properties where space is at a premium. Their compact size allows them to fit into smaller yards or patios, turning a small space, even a modest outdoor living space, into a luxurious and relaxing oasis.

Cost-Effectiveness:

Plunge pools typically cost less to install and maintain than larger pools due to their smaller size and reduced water volume. This makes them a more affordable option for homeowners who wish to enjoy the benefits of a pool without the high costs of installation and maintenance typically associated with full-size pools.

Energy Efficiency:

Plunge pools use less water and require less energy to heat and maintain, saving on electric and water treatment supplies.

Versatility:

Despite their smaller size, plunge pools offer a surprising level of versatility. They can be used for cooling off during hot summer months, for relaxing year-round, and even for low-impact exercise when equipped with swim jets.

Therapeutic Benefits:

The soothing properties of water have long been recognized for their therapeutic effects. A plunge pool can serve as your personal hydrotherapy station, helping to ease muscle tension, promote relaxation, and improve overall well-being. The optional addition of hydrotherapy jets can enhance these benefits, offering targeted relief to aching muscles and joints.

Aesthetic Appeal:

A well-designed plunge pool can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern design or a more natural, lagoon-style pool, a plunge pool can transform your outdoor space into a visually stunning retreat.

How Big is a Plunge Pool?

The size of a plunge pool can significantly vary, but they say small pools are generally more compact than conventional pools. Depending on the model, a typical plunge pool might measure anywhere from 10′ to 30′ feet in length and 6′ to 11′ in width, providing plenty of space for cooling off or enjoying a relaxing soak.

How Deep Are Our Plunge Pools?

The depth of our Barrier Reef plunge pools typically ranges from 3’11” to 5’3″ deep. 

Can You Swim in a Plunge Pool?

Absolutely! While plunge pools may not provide the same length as traditional pools for swimming laps, they can still serve as an effective workout zone, especially when equipped with swim jets. The swim jets provide a current against which you can swim, delivering a rigorous, low-impact cardiovascular workout. Our Escape model, with its wide swim lane, is perfect for this purpose.

What’s the Difference of a Plunge Pool Versus a Cocktail Pool?

While both plunge pools and cocktail pools are small-scale swimming pools that are designed to fit into compact spaces, there are some key differences to consider when deciding which option is best for your needs.

PLUNGE POOLS:

• Purpose & Design – Cooling off, therapeutic, depth for full body immersion, relaxation & light exercise. 
• Depth – Typically have a consistent depth throughout, often ranging between 3’11” to 5’3″.
• Size – Smaller than a traditional swimming pool, the size of plunge pools can vary but are generally 6’5″-11′ and 10′-30′ long.
• Features – Plunge pools can feature seating, but also may be built with the addition of fitness-focused elements like swim jets. 

COCKTAIL POOLS:

• Purpose & Design – Socializing, often shallower, enabling users to lounge comfortably, sit down and converse comfortably, partially submerged, with a drink in hand.
• Depth – Generally shallower, usually not exceeding 4+ feet deep.
• Size – Smaller than a traditional plunge or swimming pool, the size of a cocktail pool is generally less than 300-400 sq ft, measuring on average 12×14 feet in size.
• Features – Cocktail pools often have built-in seating and ledges for drinks, underlining their socializing aspect.

 

What is the difference between a swim spa and a plunge pool?

Swim spas and plunge pools are compact aquatic installations, each serving distinct needs.

Primarily fitness-focused, swim spas have strong jets for resistance swimming and include therapeutic seats for post-workout relaxation, serving as an exercise area and a hot tub combined.

Plunge pools, on the other hand, are smaller pools that are designed for cooling off and light exercise. They offer a tranquil space for a quick dip or relaxation, making them an appealing, space-efficient addition to any property.

The choice between a swim spa and a plunge pool depends on your preference for fitness or relaxation in your aquatic feature.

How Much Does a Fiberglass Plunge Pool Cost?

The plunge pool cost can vary based on a range of factors, including size, features, labor costs, and customization options. However, these types of plunge pools are generally more cost-effective than regular pools due to their smaller size, which requires less water, energy, and maintenance.

At Barrier Reef, we strive to make our plunge pools an affordable luxury, helping our customers create a resort-like experience right in their own backyards.

Is a Plunge Pool Worth It?

A full-sized pool can be a major commitment, especially in harsh climates where extra maintenance is needed to combat the elements. A spool or plunge pool offers nearly all of the same advantages but with much lower operating costs and requirements for upkeep.

Unless you’re specifically looking for a large pool with lots of space to fit multiple swimmers, a small pool may be the best option to meet all your needs with minimum labor and expense.

Are Plunge Pools Good for Kids & New Swimmers?

A plunge pool can be a great way to introduce swimming to new swimmers. A full size pool can be an overwhelming place to get comfortable in the water, or to teach your kids to swim.

A plunge pool that is on the shallow side (around 4 feet deep) without a daunting deep end to worry about can be easier to supervise & see the entire water area at once. 

Is a Plunge Pool right for you?

The considerations that come into play while deciding on a plunge pool are largely similar to those when contemplating a full-sized pool. However, a few specific factors may significantly influence your decision when it comes to plunge pools:

Firstly, while plunge pools are designed to fit into smaller spaces, the limited room can sometimes pose challenges during installation. Excavation and landscaping in tight quarters may require more detailed planning and precision. Our experts at Barrier Reef Pools can assess your backyard and provide insight into any potential challenges that may arise during the installation process.

Secondly, unlike traditional pools that have a shallow and a deep end, plunge pools have a uniform depth throughout. This consistent depth might not be ideal if you have young children or non-swimmers in your household, making safety a crucial aspect to consider.

Most importantly, an honest assessment of how you envision using your pool is crucial. If you see yourself unwinding after a strenuous run with a rejuvenating soak, a model like the Pixie or the Crispin especially when equipped with spa jets, could provide the therapeutic relief you seek, aiding muscle recovery.

If your vision leans more towards enjoying tranquil evenings in the pool with your partner or friends, then models like the Escape or the Coral Cay might be a more suitable choice. Its unique design includes creative seating arrangements and offers slightly more space for movement, enhancing your leisure experience.

In essence, choosing a plunge pool is about aligning the pool’s features and capabilities with your lifestyle, preferences, and the physical constraints of your small yard or property. It’s about making a choice that brings value, enjoyment, and a touch of luxury to your outdoor living space.

Can a plunge pool be used as a hot tub?

A plunge pool can indeed be adapted to function like a hot tub, offering a delightful blend of versatility and luxury. The compact size and depth of a plunge pool make it an ideal candidate for this kind of dual usage, and with the right enhancements, you can transform your plunge pool into a relaxing hot spa-like retreat.

The most crucial element in transforming a plunge pool into a hot tub is the addition of a heater. A powerful, energy-efficient pool heater can raise the temperature of the water to that of a hot tub, typically between 100-104 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a warm and soothing soak.

Additionally, installing hydrotherapy jets can further enhance the hot tub experience. These jets propel water in a strong stream, creating a massaging effect that aids in muscle relaxation and offers therapeutic benefits similar to those of a hot tub.

However, there are a few considerations to bear in mind. While a plunge pool can mimic a hot tub’s warmth and therapeutic properties, it lacks the typical seating found in most hot tubs. 

Without these, you may not be able to lounge as comfortably in a heated plunge pool as you would in a traditional hot tub. Also, heating a plunge pool to hot tub temperatures can consume a significant amount of energy, so it’s essential to factor in the potential increase in energy costs. 

Despite these points, with the installation costs and right enhancements, a plunge pool can provide an enjoyable hot tub-like experience, affording the luxury of a warm, soothing soak right in your backyard.

Explore Our Plunge Pools

Browse Our Gallery of Plunge Pools

We encourage you to explore our wide range of fiberglass plunge pools to find the perfect fit for your home and lifestyle. Our gallery showcases various models and installations, providing inspiration for how a Barrier Reef plunge pool could transform your outdoor space. Dive into our gallery and explore the endless possibilities that await with a Barrier Reef plunge pool.

Find a Dealer