Swimming pool trend on the rise

Developed by Austrian company BIOTOP, natural swimming pools contain water that is self-cleaning and free of any salt or chemicals.  

“It becomes a very controlled pool and it looks just as clean and clear as a pool that’s been sanitised,” Natural Swim Pools owner Wayne Zwar told Domain.

How do natural swimming pools work?

According to the Natural Swim Pools website, natural pools don't require chlorine or other chemicals and instead feature a regeneration zone, which cleans and purifies the water. 

“The regeneration zone, separated from the swimming area by a dividing wall, is where aquatic plants not only oxygenate the water but along with microorganisms, act as living filters and organic cleansers, naturally and continually filtering the water removing impurities and excess nutrients,” the website says.

The living pool

Alternatively, if there isn’t room for a regeneration zone, a second option involves installing an underground filter, also known as a living pool.

“Instead of the regeneration zone required in natural pools with its live flora and fauna, an underground biological filter and a specially developed phosphorus filter provide biological and physiological purification of the water, continuously keeping it clear and alive.”

How much does a natural pool cost?

According to Domain, BIOTOP pools cost about $80,000 to install. However, converting an existing pool starts at 25,000.

Although this sounds expensive, doing so can save you money in the long run. 

In fact, The Australian Government’s You Energy Savings website estimates maintaining a pool can account for up to 30 per cent of a household's energy bills, with the pool pump being the largest user of electricity in a home.

What do you think? Do you have a natural pool?