At Plunge Pools Perth Builders, we do more than install pools—we create stunning outdoor spaces built for relaxation and style. With years of experience and a deep understanding of Perth’s climate and regulations, we make the installation process seamless, efficient, and tailored to your space.
This guide breaks down exactly what you’ll pay and what affects pricing. From council approvals to site prep and installation challenges, everything you need to know is here. Let’s get started.
Plunge Pools: Small Footprint, Big Impact
A plunge pool isn’t about swimming laps. It’s about cooling off, relaxing, and adding luxury to your backyard—without the maintenance nightmare of a full-sized pool. Ranging from 2 to 7 metres long and up to 2 metres deep, they’re perfect for tight spaces, especially in urban Perth homes where every square metre counts.
Why More Perth Homeowners Are Choosing Plunge Pools
Perth’s summers are brutal. A traditional swimming pools costs a fortune to install and maintain, but a plunge pool gives you the same refreshing escape for a fraction of the price. More homeowners are making the switch because:
- Uses Less Water – Ideal for Perth’s water restrictions.
- Sleek, Modern Aesthetic – Blends perfectly with high-end landscaping and alfresco areas.
- Energy-Efficient – Heats up faster, stays warm longer, and costs less to run (especially with solar heating).
How Much Does a Plunge Pool Cost in Perth?
Not all plunge pools are created equal. Material, installation method, and extra features all impact the final cost of the pool. Some pools are quick to install but limited in design, while others offer full customisation at a premium. Here’s what you need to know.
Fibreglass Plunge Pools: Affordable & Low Maintenance
- Price Range: $40,000 – $60,000 (installation included)
- Installation Time: 1 to 3 weeks
- Best For: Homeowners who want quick installation and low maintenance
Why Choose Fibreglass?
- Pre-fabricated shells mean installation is fast and efficient.
- Smooth, non-porous surface prevents algae growth and reduces chemical use.
- Available in standard shapes and sizes, so no design headaches.
Downsides?
- Less customisation than concrete.
- May need crane access for delivery, which adds to costs.
Precast Concrete Plunge Pools: The Middle Ground
- Price Range: $30,000 – $40,000 (excluding installation)
- Installation Cost: $10,000 – $20,000 (site access & crane use affect pricing)
- Total Cost: $40,000 – $60,000 (including installation & labour)
- Installation Time: 2 to 4 weeks
- Best For: Homeowners who want concrete durability with a faster build time
Why Choose Precast Concrete?
- Factory-made and delivered to your site for quick installation.
- Stronger than fibreglass and can be partially or fully in-ground.
- More premium look than fibreglass, without the high cost of a fully custom build.
Downsides?
- Less design flexibility than custom concrete pools.
- Heavier than fibreglass, so proper site preparation is essential.
Custom Concrete Plunge Pools: Fully Custom, Built to Last
- Price Range: $50,000+ (varies by design)
- Installation Time: 6 to 12 weeks
- Best For: Homeowners who want a unique, high-end pool tailored to their space
Why Choose Custom Concrete?
- Unlimited design options—choose the size, shape, and depth that fits your vision.
- Luxury finishes available, from tiles to waterfalls and built-in seating.
- Extremely durable and adds long-term property value.
Downsides?
- Takes the longest to install—expect a build time of 6 to 12 weeks.
Plunge Pool Cost Comparison Table
| Pool Type | Installation Cost | Total Estimated Cost (including labour and installation) | Installation Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fibreglass | Included in most cases | $40,000 – $60,000 | 1 – 3 weeks |
| Precast Concrete | $10,000 – $20,000 | $40,000 – $60,000 | 2 – 4 weeks |
| Custom Concrete | Varies | $50,000+ | 6 – 12 weeks |
Factors Affecting Plunge Pool Costs in Perth
The price of a plunge pool isn’t just about the pool itself. Excavation, site conditions, installation complexity, and additional features all impact the final cost. Understanding these factors helps you budget smarter and avoid surprise expenses.
Site Preparation & Soil Conditions
Not all backyards are the same. Perth’s sandy soil is easy to work with, but if your property sits on rocky or clay-heavy ground, excavation costs rise fast.
- Excavation Costs: Expect to pay $1,500 to $5,000, depending on soil type and site accessibility.
- Sloped Blocks Need Extra Support: Retaining walls or concrete footings may be required, increasing costs.
Installation Challenges in Perth
Some sites are straightforward. Others? Not so much. Tight access, crane requirements, and electrical setup can all add to your final bill.
- Crane Requirements: If a truck can’t access your site, a crane may be needed to lift and place the pool. Cost: $3,000 to $10,000.
- Plumbing & Electrical Setup:
- Power supply for filtration, heating, and lighting: $1,000 to $5,000.
- Licensed electrician and plumber required to meet WA building codes.
Additional Costs & Custom Features
Adding extra features can enhance your plunge pool experience but will also increase costs.
| Feature | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Heating (solar, gas, or electric) | $1,600 – $3,600 |
| LED lighting | $100 – $400 per light |
| Hydrotherapy jets | $80+ per jet |
| Automated pool covers | $7,000+ |
| Water features (e.g., waterfalls, fountains) | $1,000 – $4,400 |
| Custom tiling & finishes | Varies |
Perth-Specific Installation Costs & Process
The cost of installing a plunge pool isn’t just about the pool itself. Site prep, excavation, plumbing, electrical work, and landscaping all play a role in the final total price.
Here’s what the installation process looks like and what you’ll be paying for.
1. Site Preparation & Excavation
Before installation begins, the site needs to be cleared and levelled. Excavation costs depend on soil conditions and accessibility.
- Standard excavation: $1,500 – $5,000, depending on soil type.
- Difficult access: If mini-excavators or manual digging are required, costs go up.
- Sloped sites: May need retaining walls or structural reinforcements, adding to expenses.
2. Plumbing & Electrical Work
A licensed plumber and electrician are required to install filtration, heating, and lighting systems.
- Plumbing setup: $1,000 – $3,000
- Electrical installation: $1,500 – $5,000
- Heating systems, LED lighting, and automation add to costs but improve efficiency.
3. Pool Shell Installation & Finishing
How your pool is installed depends on the type:
- Fibreglass Pools: Delivered as a pre-made shell and placed into position using a crane if necessary.
- Precast Concrete Pools: Delivered and installed onto a prepared foundation.
- Custom Concrete Pools: Built on-site, with the concrete poured and cured over several weeks.
4. Landscaping & Final Touches
A plunge pool alone is great, but the surrounding decking, paving, and garden features take it to the next level.
- Basic landscaping: Starts at $1,500.
- Premium finishes: Can exceed $5,500, depending on materials and design.
Once installation is complete, your pool will be filled, tested, and inspected to ensure it meets WA safety and compliance standards.
Climate & Energy Efficiency Considerations
Perth’s summers are brutal. A full-sized pool bleeds water through evaporation, racks up energy bills, and takes forever to heat. A plunge pool? Uses less water, heats faster, and costs less to maintain.
Energy-Efficient Features That Cut Costs
A plunge pool is already cheaper to run than a full-sized pool, but the right features can reduce running costs even further.
| Feature | Benefits | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Solar heating | Uses free energy from the sun to heat your pool | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Insulated fibreglass pools | Retains heat better, reducing heating costs | Included with fibreglass pools |
| Variable-speed pool pumps | Uses less energy than standard pumps | $800 – $2,000 |
| Automated pool covers | Reduces heat loss and evaporation | $7,000+ |
| Saltwater chlorinators | Requires fewer chemicals and less maintenance | $1,500 – $3,000 |
How to Reduce Water & Energy Costs
A plunge pool already costs less to run than a full-sized pool, but small tweaks can cut costs even further.
- Use a pool cover – Cuts evaporation by up to 50% and keeps heat in.
- Go solar for heating – One-time investment, zero ongoing energy costs.
- Run your pump during off-peak hours – Reduces electricity bills.
- Upgrade to a variable-speed pump – Uses up to 80% less power than standard pumps.
Local Regulations & Pool Compliance in Perth
Plunge pools aren’t just about installation. They need to meet WA’s safety standards, require council approval, and must have compliant fencing. Skip this step, and you’re looking at fines of up to $5,000.
Do You Need Council Approval for a Plunge Pool in Perth?
Yes. Most plunge pools require local council approval before installation. The process includes:
- Submitting a building application to your local council.
- Ensuring compliance with WA safety standards, including fencing laws.
- Booking a final inspection before use.
Approval Timeframe: 2 to 6 weeks, depending on council workload.
WA Pool Fencing Laws & Safety Requirements
All pools in WA must meet Australian Standard AS1926.1. The key rules:
- Fence must be at least 1.2m high.
- Self-closing, self-latching gate required.
- No climbable objects within 900mm of the fence.
- Fence must fully enclose the pool and separate it from the house.
Estimated Costs for Pool Fencing
| Fencing Type | Cost per Metre | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium fencing | $250 – $400 | Affordable, durable, and easy to maintain |
| Frameless glass fencing | $600 – $700 | Modern, stylish, and provides an unobstructed view |
| Semi-frameless glass fencing | $400 – $600 | A balance between affordability and aesthetics |
Failing to comply with WA pool fencing laws can result in fines of up to $5,000, so it’s essential to follow regulations from the start.
Maintenance & Running Costs
A plunge pool costs less to maintain than a full-sized pool, but there are still ongoing expenses for cleaning, filtration, and heating. The good news? With the right setup, you can keep costs low and predictable.
Annual Maintenance Costs
The average yearly cost to maintain a plunge pool in Perth ranges from $1,000 to $1,400, covering:
| Expense | Annual Cost | How to Reduce Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Pool Chemicals | $300 – $600 | Use a saltwater chlorinator to cut chemical use |
| Filtration & Pump Electricity | $400 – $800 | Upgrade to a variable-speed pump for 80% energy savings |
| Water Top-Ups (Evaporation Loss) | $100 – $200 | Use a pool cover to prevent water loss |
| Cleaning (Tools or Pro Services) | $200 – $400 | Invest in a robotic pool cleaner instead of hiring professionals |
Water & Energy Usage Costs in Perth
- Evaporation is a problem—especially in summer. A pool cover can cut water loss by up to 50%.
- Solar heating is the cheapest option—once installed, it costs nothing to run.
- Electric heating? Expect a $50 – $150 monthly increase on your power bill.
- Variable-speed pumps use up to 80% less power than standard pumps, saving money in the long run.
Cost-Saving Tips for Maintaining a Plunge Pool
A well-maintained plunge pool costs less to run and lasts longer. Smart maintenance keeps your pool clean, efficient, and hassle-free without blowing your budget.
- Run the pump during off-peak hours – Cuts electricity costs.
- Use a robotic pool cleaner – One-time investment that saves on cleaning services.
- Monitor pH and chlorine levels weekly – Prevents expensive chemical imbalances.
- Switch to a saltwater system – Lower chemical costs, less maintenance, and gentler on skin.
Stick to these strategies, and owning a plunge pool stays affordable year after year.
Conclusion
A plunge pool transforms any backyard into a stylish, low-maintenance retreat without taking up excess space or costing a fortune to run. Whether you go with fibreglass for speed, precast concrete for durability, or custom concrete for a premium finish, the right plunge pool boosts your lifestyle and property value.
At Plunge Pools Perth Builders, we deliver expert installation across all pool types, ensuring your pool is built to last and tailored to Perth’s climate.
Your backyard upgrade starts now. Get in touch today for a free consultation and quote.
What’s Next To do?
Still deciding if a plunge pool is right for you? Understanding both the advantages and potential drawbacks can help you make the best choice. Visit our next article, Plunge Pool Pros and Cons, where we break down everything you need to know—from cost and maintenance to functionality and long-term value.
If you’re working with limited outdoor space, you might also be wondering whether a plunge pool is a smart investment. Don’t miss our follow-up article, Are Plunge Pools Worth It for Small Backyards? We’ll explore how these compact pools can transform even the smallest yard into a relaxing retreat—without compromising style or practicality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are plunge pools worth it in Perth’s climate?
Yes, plunge pools are ideal for Perth’s hot summers because they:
- Provide a cooling escape without high water usage.
- Are energy-efficient, especially when paired with solar heating.
- Require less maintenance than full-sized pools.
What is the cheapest plunge pool option in Perth?
- Fibreglass plunge pools are the most affordable, starting at $10,000 (excluding labour and installation costs).
- DIY plunge pool kits are available but may lack durability and require professional installation.
- Vinyl-lined plunge pools are another budget option but need liner replacements every 7-10 years.
How long does it take to install a plunge pool in Perth?
- Fibreglass pools: 1 – 3 weeks
- Precast concrete pools: 2 – 4 weeks
- Custom concrete pools: 6 – 12 weeks
What are the long-term costs of owning a plunge pool?
- Annual maintenance: $1,000 – $1,400
- Heating costs: $50 – $150 per month (if using electric heating)
- Water top-ups: $100 – $200 per year
A saltwater system, pool cover, and solar heating can reduce long-term costs significantly.
