At Plunge Pools Perth Builders, we’re a pool builder that creates high-quality, low-maintenance plunge pools designed to fit your lifestyle—not take over your weekends. Efficient filtration, minimal chemical use, and easy care make them the ultimate hassle-free backyard upgrade.
This guide breaks it down—why plunge pools are low-maintenance, how to keep them clean, and what it costs to maintain one. Let’s get into it.
What Makes Plunge Pools Easier to Maintain?
Plunge pools are designed to be low-maintenance compared to traditional swimming pools. Here’s why:
Smaller Water Volume = Fewer Chemicals
A plunge pool holds less water than a standard pool, which means fewer chemicals are needed to keep your pool water clean and balanced. This means less time spent testing and adjusting pH levels, chlorine, and alkalinity.
Faster Cleaning Process
With less surface area, plunge pools collect less dirt, debris, and algae, making them easier to skim, brush, and vacuum. Most plunge pool owners can complete their cleaning routine in minutes, not hours.
Less Wear and Tear on Filtration Systems
Since plunge pools circulate a smaller amount of water, the pump and pool filter system don’t have to work as hard. This reduces the risk of breakdowns and lowers ongoing regular maintenance costs.
These factors make plunge pools an ideal choice for busy homeowners who want the benefits of a pool without the constant upkeep.
A Simple, Time-Saving Plunge Pool Care Plan
Keeping your plunge pool in top shape doesn’t have to take hours. With a simple routine, you can ensure your plunge pool remains clean, clear, and hassle-free. Here’s the plan:
Daily (5 minutes):
- Skim the surface to clear out leaves and debris.
- Check water clarity; if it’s cloudy, test and adjust the chemistry.
Weekly (15 minutes):
- Test pH, chlorine, and alkalinity, and make adjustments as needed.
- Clean the skimmer basket and remove any buildup.
- Brush the pool walls and floor to prevent algae.
- Run the filtration system for at least 6–8 hours to keep the water circulating.
Monthly (30 minutes):
- Vacuum the pool to help remove dirt.
- Check and clean the pool pump and filter system — backwash your filter if necessary.
- Inspect the pump and heating system to ensure they’re running efficiently.
Stick to this schedule, and you’ll maintain your pool with minimal effort—keeping it clean and running smoothly year-round.
Concrete vs. Fibreglass Plunge Pools – Which Requires Less Maintenance?
Not all plunge pools are equal when it comes to upkeep. The material you choose determines how often you clean, how much you spend on chemicals, and how much effort maintenance requires. Some pools require regular upkeep, while others are designed for minimal maintenance. Here’s how concrete and fibreglass compare:
Concrete Plunge Pools – Durable but High Maintenance
- Built to last – Can go 40+ years with proper care.
- More cleaning required – The rough, porous surface traps dirt and algae, so frequent brushing is a must.
- Needs resurfacing – Over time, concrete pools need acid washing and resurfacing to stay in shape.
- Higher chemical use – More chemicals in your pool are needed to prevent algae growth and balance water chemistry.
Fibreglass Plunge Pools – The Lowest Maintenance Option
- Smooth, non-porous surface – Resists algae, meaning less scrubbing and easier cleaning.
- No resurfacing needed – Unlike concrete, fibreglass never needs acid washing or resurfacing.
- Less time, fewer chemicals – Water stays balanced with minimal effort and lower chemical costs.
Which One’s Easier to Maintain?
If low maintenance is your priority, fibreglass wins. Less cleaning, fewer water chemicals, and no resurfacing make it the best hassle-free option for homeowners who want a pool—without the extra work.
How Much Does It Cost to Maintain a Plunge Pool?
One of the biggest advantages of a plunge pool? Lower small swimming pool maintenance costs. Less water, smaller pumps, and fewer chemicals mean less money spent every year compared to a full-sized pool.
Here’s what you’re looking at:
| Expense | Plunge Pool (Annual Cost) | Full-Size Pool (Annual Cost) |
|---|---|---|
| Chemicals | $200 – $400 | $500 – $1,000 |
| Electricity (Pumps/Heaters) | $150 – $300 | $800 – $1,500 |
| Cleaning Supplies | $100 – $200 | $300 – $600 |
| Equipment Maintenance | $150 – $500 | $500 – $1,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $600 – $1,400 | $2,100 – $4,600 |
Why Plunge Pools Are Cheaper to Maintain
Less water. Less work. Less cost. A plunge pool doesn’t just save space—it saves you money.
- Lower chemical use – Smaller water volume = fewer chemical balance needed.
- Less energy consumption – Smaller pumps and heaters use less power.
- Easier cleaning – Less surface area = less skimming, brushing, and pool vacuum.
- Longer-lasting equipment – Filtration systems run more efficiently with less strain.
How to Make Your Plunge Pool Even More Low-Maintenance
Plunge pools are already easier to manage than full-sized pools. But smart technology can take things even further—cutting maintenance time to almost zero.
1. Self-Cleaning Jets
- Creates good water circulation, preventing debris from settling.
- Reduces manual vacuuming and brushing, keeping water clear with less effort.
2. Ozone Purification & UV Filtration
- Ozone systems break down contaminants, cutting chlorine use.
- UV filtration kills bacteria and algae without adding extra chemicals.
- Keeps water cleaner for longer with minimal effort.
3. Robotic Pool Cleaners
- Uses an automatic pool cleaner to remove debris from the pool floor and walls.
- Works on a set schedule—no manual cleaning required.
4. Smart Pool Monitors
- Tracks pH and chlorine levels in real time.
- Sends alerts to your phone when adjustments are needed—zero guesswork.
With the right pool equipment and automation upgrades, maintaining a plunge pool takes minutes—not hours. Many of these features can be added to existing pools or included in a new installation.
Conclusion
Sick of pools that demand constant cleaning, endless chemicals, and sky-high running costs? A plunge pool gives you all the perks—cooling off, relaxing, adding value to your home—without the time-sucking maintenance of a full-sized pool.
At Plunge Pools Perth Builders, we build high-quality, low-maintenance pools designed to fit your backyard, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Ready to make it happen? Contact us today to explore our fibreglass and concrete plunge pool options or book a free consultation. Let’s transform your space into a low-maintenance backyard oasis you’ll enjoy for years to come.
What’s Next?
If you’re weighing the benefits and drawbacks of a plunge pool, our previous article about Plunge Pool Pros and Cons, breaks it all down—from affordability and space-saving perks to potential limitations—helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your home.
Now, let’s take it a step further. Check out our latest article, Are Plunge Pools Worth It for Small Backyards?, where we explore how plunge pools maximise small spaces, add value, and offer year-round functionality, so you can see exactly why they’re becoming a must-have for Perth homeowners.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do you need to clean a plunge pool?
If you’re wondering how often to clean a plunge pool, the answer is not very often. Just skim leaves daily, check and balance chemicals once a week, and give the pool a deep clean once a month. If you have a fiberglass plunge pool, maintenance is even easier because it resists algae buildup.
Can a plunge pool be left untreated?
No, you should never leave a plunge pool untreated. Even if you’re not using it, algae and bacteria can grow quickly, making the water unsafe. Whether you prefer a chlorine or saltwater system, regular filtration and water testing help to keep your pool clean, safe, and low-maintenance.
How long does it take to clean a plunge pool?
Cleaning a plunge pool doesn’t take long at all. You’ll spend about 5 to 10 minutes a day skimming debris, 15 minutes a week testing and balancing chemical levels, and around 30 minutes a month for a deep clean. That’s much easier than maintaining a full-sized swimming pool.
What is the easiest type of plunge pool to maintain?
The easiest plunge pool to maintain is a fiberglass plunge pool. Its smooth surface prevents algae growth, so you don’t need to scrub as much. It also requires fewer chemicals and works well with self-cleaning systems, making it a great choice for a hassle-free backyard pool.
Do heated plunge pools require more maintenance?
Yes, heated plunge pools need a little more care because warm water can speed up algae growth and chlorine breakdown. To keep a heated plunge pool clean, use a pool cover, test the water chemistry regularly, and ensure the filtration system is running efficiently.
