What is a plunge pool? It could be the perfect addition to your outdoor (or indoor) space.

A plunge pool is a compact alternative (or companion) to a swimming pool. Desirable and bespoke, with meticulous attention to detail, it’s ideal for the style-conscious homeowner who adores the water.

In this blog, we’ll explain what a plunge pool is, the benefits of installing one, and how a plunge pool could be the perfect addition to your outdoor (or indoor) space.

What is a plunge pool?

A plunge pool is a compact, recreational pool, intended mainly for relaxation. It looks like a small swimming pool, and is usually larger than a hot tub. Typically, a plunge pool will be in-ground (although above-ground/raised models are available).

Some people also call them “Dipping pools” due to the fact they’re perfect for a quick dip although technically speaking they’re slightly different things.

A plunge pool can be installed inside or outside. It’s a place to relax: to soak tired muscles, socialise with friends and cool off in hot weather. If you live in the city and don’t have the space for a full-size swimming pool, a plunge pool will give you just as much enjoyment.

How big are plunge pools?

A plunge pool is smaller than a swimming pool and bigger than a hot tub. The classic shape (picture a Roman bath or Turkish spa) is rectangular, but any shape is possible - square, circular, octagonal, and so on.

The precise size is up to you, your available space and how many people you want your pool to accommodate at any one time. A good size for a family of four looking for a square pool would be 8ft by 8ft (2.5m by 2.5m). Rectangular pools can vary between 2-7m long (6.5-23 ft) and 1-4m wide (3 to 13 ft).

With our help, you can design your SpaFlo plunge pool to fit your space – any size or shape, and a completely bespoke design.

How deep should my plunge pool be?

Plunge pools can be built to pretty much any depth: shallow enough for you to stand up to your shoulders, and not so deep that you’re out of your depth. A depth of 1.5m (5ft) works for most people.

As they’re not swimming pools, they don’t have a ‘deep’ end – they’re the same depth throughout. And if you want to make them suitable for your children, you’ll need to ensure the depth is child-friendly.

Many plunge pools have steps down into them, so you have the choice to stand up or sit down, fully or partly immersed.

What temperature should my plunge pool be?

Your plunge pool can be heated, unheated or even chilled.

Outside, an unheated/chilled plunge pool will give you a brisk and refreshing plunge in the colder months. An excellent way to replicate the health benefits of a wild swim in a river, lake or the sea.

At warmer times of year, an unheated plunge pool will quickly reach a comfortable temperature of around 25˚C (and much faster than a big swimming pool).

If you prefer to have greater control over the temperature of the water, it’s simple to have your plunge pool heated. The warmer the water, the greater the stimulation of blood flow and loosening of muscle tissue.

So adding heating is a good idea for year-round relaxation, relief for aching joints or other therapeutic purposes.

What are the benefits of a plunge pool?

Whether you want to walk out on a winter morning and plunge into warm water, or soak in an elegantly illuminated pool on a summer evening, a plunge pool has many uses and benefits:

• Compared to a full-size pool, it’s quick and easy to heat, making it more cost-effective, and therefore kinder to the environment.
• It’s easy to fit into small spaces: back garden, patio or deck, or in a private tucked-away corner.
• It’s well-suited to indoor use too, and makes a good addition to a bathroom or en suite. Or you could put one in a room with a view, like an extension or conservatory.
• Adding resistance jets means you can use your time in the plunge pool as a swim-training session. These jets give you the option of a jacuzzi or hot-tub experience, and are also good for low-impact aquatic exercise, muscle toning and rehabilitation.
• Many people use plunge pools for post-surgery aquatic rehabilitation, and to aid recovery from injury.
• A plunge pool is better for the environment than a big pool as it requires less water, and fewer chemicals.
• Careful planning and bespoke design will enhance the aesthetic or compliment your recreational space.
• A plunge pool is easy to clean and maintain.
• As well as the therapeutic benefits of soaking in water, it’s calming and relaxing to rest your eyes on a still body of water, even more so when it’s lit up at night.

A SpaFlo plunge pool is a beautiful addition to any property. Its sleek stainless steel finish is striking and unique. Not only beautiful to look at, but expertly made, our designs are created with you and your environment in mind, so they become a seamless addition to your indoor or outdoor space.

How can I design my plunge pool for the UK climate?

There are plenty of ways a plunge pool can enhance your lifestyle, whatever the weather. By adding heating, you can enjoy your pool all-year round, even in winter. It’s wonderful to experience all-weather plunging.

Even without heating, a cold plunge is good for the circulation and a healthy start to the day.

A SpaFlo plunge pool is made to your requirements. We work hard to bring your vision to life, using the best in technical expertise and innovative design. So, even when you’re not using it, you’ll always look out on your plunge pool with excitement and pride.

• Consider creating an infinity pool. By positioning your pool strategically, you can create an infinity edge which will complement your existing landscaping, and be a joy to admire, however dismal the UK weather.
• Design a lighting plan. Thoughtful ambient lighting around the pool, and floodlighting of surrounding trees and shrubs, as well as illumination of the water itself will enhance the look and feel of the pool area.
• There are plenty of accessories to keep your plunge pool in good condition, including vacuums, covers and pumps.

How much does a plunge pool cost?

Much of the price will depend on the material you choose, particularly for the lining. For example, vinyl plunge pools will typically retail for £20,000 installed, fibreglass typically costs £30,000, concrete often starts from £32,500 and stainless steel starts from £40,000.

All our plunge pools are stainless steel, making them durable, weather resistant and visually arresting. An in-ground SpaFlo plunge pool costs around £40,000 on average. The price you’ll pay depends on your particular requirements, which we’d be happy to discuss with you.

SpaFlo is leading the way in the manufacture of stainless steel plunge pools. To find out more about these unique pools and our bespoke, personal service, please get in touch. We’d be happy to help.