How to Decide if a Natural Pool is Right for You

Natural pools have been slowly gaining popularity over the last few decades.

Usually chosen as a chemical-free alternative to a traditional, chlorinated pool, they offer the same luxury lifestyle and aesthetic. If you’ve been planning to invest in a swimming pool for your home or business, you’re probably wondering how to tell if a natural pool is the right choice. How do they work? What are the drawbacks? We’ll cover these questions, and more, in this post.

What is a natural pool?

A natural pool is simply a swimming pool that uses an organic filtration system, rather than chemicals, to stay clean. Taking inspiration from nature, a natural pool features an area that’s filled with carefully-chosen water plants and reeds that filter your water as it gets pumped around the pool.

How does this keep the water clean?

The reeds and plants in this ‘regeneration zone’ feed on the water, acting as a physical filter for debris and producing both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria to maintain the cleanliness of your water. You will still need a pump to keep the water in constant motion through the plants, but you won’t need to add man-made chemicals or salts to disinfect or sterilise it.
As a bonus, the constant water movement prevents the pool from becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Why do some people prefer a natural pool?

The lack of chlorine or man-made chemicals in the water makes a natural pool very appealing for swimmers with sensitive skin, or those generally concerned about ingesting chlorine from extended use of their pool. Natural pools are also a good choice for those who are conscious about exposing the environment to chemicals, as well as themselves.

Others appreciate the visual aesthetic that a natural pool offers. Available in a wide range of contemporary and rustic styles, the common factor is that every natural pool comes with a beautiful water garden, helping it blend seamlessly with its surroundings and create a focal point for landscaping.

Finally, natural pools are lower maintenance and cheaper to run than a conventional pool. There’s no need to keep buying chemicals and salt, nor do you need to maintain a chemical filter, check the pH balance, or deal with most of the other costs involved in keeping a normal pool clean. You will still need to occasionally skim the surface and run the pump system (although this can usually be run on solar power).

What are the drawbacks of a natural pool?

The biggest drawback of a natural pool is that they generally cost more upfront than a conventional swimming pool. However, the lower ongoing costs mean that you make your money back over time (and can sleep easier, knowing that you’re not putting more chemicals into the environment).
Another factor to consider is that the water in your natural pool won’t be a bright, artificial blue like it would be in a chemically-filtered swimming pool. The water should still be fairly clear, although some natural algae growth may give it a slightly brown tint. By their design, natural pools will include some organic debris and sediment – it’s perfectly safe, even if it isn’t the sparkling blue shade we’ve come to expect.
For a natural pool that is beautiful, low-maintenance and safe to swim in, it’s essential that you choose an experienced installer. At Compass Pools, we have worked on many natural swimming pool projects from concept to completion, so would be more than happy to discuss your ideas, answer your questions, and bring your dream swimming pool to life. Simply contact your nearest Compass Pools office today.