This depends on how it is designed and this indeed depends on the budget. All natural pools will need an annual pruning of the plants. Aside from that the only maintenance required is in the removal of debri. Do you mind having some sludge under your feet? If you do then you can either design for this not to happen (Pristine Natural Pool design) or you can opt to clean the pool every month with a vacuum, pool robot or a kreepy Krawley system (if the design allows). We also offer a maintenance service to handle this for you.

What we can say is that there is no constant measuring of PH, adjusting with chemicals, adding chlorine, adding acid. Natural pools will find there own balance and just do their thing.

A Natural Pool will generally be 1.5x the cost of a conventional pool to build from scratch as you have to create the wetland area. There is however a broad spectrum here. A natural pool very often involves bespoke design, organic shapes and landscaping in the form of boulders, stone cladding etc which obviously can increase the cost. A standard rectangular natural pool with an adjacent wetland will cost far less than a pool made it fit into the landscape like a mountain pool. We have solutions for all budgets though and the best approach is to speak to us.

A natural pool costs less to run than a conventional pool. The energy consumption is about 30% less (depending on the design of the pool). There is no need for chlorine or other chemicals as well.

You most certainly can. When converting an existing chlorine pool to a natural pool one has 2 main choices. You can either create cost effective floating wetland islands inside the pool OR you construct permanent wetlands inside and/or outside the pool. The latter involves emptying the pool and undergoing construction and re-plumbing.

There are numerous pros and cons to each approach, the main factor being cost.

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The only real downside is that the biofilm can make steps and surfaces slightly slippery. There are ways to make this impact minimal and safe but ultimately one has to embrace certain elements of nature in a natural pool.

Natural pools do not have mosquitoes for a number of reasons.  Mosquito larvae need still stagnant water in order to breed. Stagnant water has very low dissolved oxygen and natural pools have good levels of dissolved oxygen from plants, movement and life. You see, constant movement and circulation of the water prevent the larvae from surviving. Natural pools also have predators that feed on mosquito larvae. Among them are the Notonectidae, popularly known as backswimmers, and the aquatic beetles (Ditiscidae). Larvae of dragonflies and damselflies also hunt mosquito larvae. 

When one hears that a natural pool does not make use of any chemicals to clean the water, the question that often follows is: Can it be safe to swim in? The answer is yes. Natural swimming pools mimic natural processes to remove compounds that could fuel the growth of harmful pathogens and algae. This is how fresh water is cleaned in nature, and natural swimming pools simply mimic this process. We have become used to chemical water treatment since urbanisation brought about water-borne diseases – a result of human waste contaminating water supplies. The chlorine used to clean conventional pool (and drinking) water can’t be thought of as ‘safe’ either. It is a skin and respiratory irritant and may also be a thyroid disruptor, and degrades soil and aquatic ecosystems. The human race has survived for centuries on freshwater resources provided in nature, so there is nothing to fear about a well-maintained natural swimming pool – even if the water is not the bright blue colour you may have become accustomed to.

Natural pools and ponds can attract wildlife, including snakes, depending on various factors such as geographic location, surrounding habitat, and the presence of suitable food sources and shelter. While natural pools and ponds may attract snakes, it's essential to remember that snakes are generally shy and prefer to avoid human contact. Taking precautions such as keeping the area around the pool clear of debris, maintaining a well-groomed landscape, and educating yourself about local snake species can help minimise encounters with snakes and create a safe and enjoyable outdoor environment. Additionally, if you live in an area with venomous snakes, it's crucial to be aware of their presence and take appropriate precautions to reduce the risk of snake bites.

Remember though. There is no greater risk of snakes or dangerous wildlife in a natural pool than there would be in say a pristine mountain pool or lake. The exception is if you live in an area that is devoid of much life, such as arid areas or a desert. Your natural pool would then be an oasis for wildlife including snakes.

Keeping Snakes Away from Your Garden Pond or Natural Pool

To enjoy the natural beauty of your pond or pool without worrying about snakes, you can adopt several strategies to make the area less appealing to them. Here are some effective methods:

1. Keep the Area Tidy: Clear away debris, long grass, and piles of rocks or wood around the pond or pool, as these can provide shelter for snakes. Regularly trim bushes and mow the lawn to reduce hiding spots.

2. Manage Food Sources: Snakes are often drawn to areas with easy access to food, like rodents or insects. By controlling rodent populations and limiting food scraps, you can make the area less attractive to snakes. If you have waterfowl, limit feeding as leftover food can attract unwanted wildlife.

3. Use Natural Repellents: Certain plants, such as lemongrass and marigolds, are known to repel snakes due to their strong scents (like citronella in lemongrass). You can also use natural snake repellents made from sulfur, clove oil, or cinnamon oil around the perimeter of your pond or pool.

4. Install Physical Barriers: A snake-proof fence made of fine mesh can be an effective way to keep snakes out. Make sure the fence is buried a few inches into the ground and angled outward to prevent climbing or burrowing.

5. Encourage Natural Predators: Birds of prey and other natural snake predators can help keep the snake population in check. Encouraging these predators to frequent your garden can be a natural way to control snake presence.

6. Keep Water Clean: Ensure that your pond or natural pool is well-maintained with clear water and minimal algae. Snakes are less likely to be attracted to clean, well-managed environments.

7. Limit Access Points: Regularly check for gaps or holes around your pond or pool that snakes could use to enter. Sealing off potential entry points can prevent unwanted visitors.

8. Use Pool Covers: When your natural pool isn’t in use, covering it can help prevent snakes from entering the water.

By following these steps, you can enjoy your natural pool or pond without worrying about snake encounters, while maintaining a beautiful and safe outdoor space.

Algae, though not classified as plants or animals, belong to the Protista kingdom and exhibit plant-like characteristics. Similarly, beneficial bacteria present in natural water bodies play a vital role in water purification—a concept mirrored in the human body’s symbiotic relationship with bacteria. Additionally, viruses, numbering in the trillions in the air we breathe, are omnipresent facets of life. Attempting to eradicate them is futile; instead, understanding their role in natural systems allows for safer, more harmonious coexistence.

It is essential to recognise that algae, with its 27,000 species, exist in all natural water bodies, comprising both beneficial and detrimental varieties. The latter typically thrive in stagnant, warm, nutrient-rich environments—conditions contrary to those in a natural pool. Natural pools, characterised by constant water circulation, low nutrient levels, and temperatures below 27 degrees Celsius, provide an inhospitable environment for undesirable algae growth.

The subtle green hue you observe in the water is actually a testament to the thriving natural algae film that adorns the pool walls, rather than an indication of water impurity. Rest assured, the water itself remains crystal clear. In contrast, pools with darker hues, such as grey or black, mask this green tint.

In essence, life teems abundantly in oceans, rivers, and well-designed natural pools. While issues such as algae blooms or anaerobic bacterial stagnation pose legitimate concerns, a paradigm shift toward cooperative coexistence with nature rather than adversarial confrontation offers promising avenues for creating living systems that are both safe and beneficial to human health

It's perfectly fine to have fish in a natural pool, as long as they are introduced thoughtfully. Key considerations are to avoid overfeeding (they should hardly be fed at all) and ensure they have a safe and suitable habitat. Additionally, keep the fish population at a manageable level to avoid disrupting the pool’s natural balance.

Fish can be beneficial—they help control mosquitoes and may even eat some algae. However, too many fish can reduce zooplankton populations, which are essential for maintaining water clarity and overall ecosystem health. It’s a balancing act, so fish can be a great addition, but their impact should be carefully managed to keep the pool’s ecosystem thriving.

I totally get your concern. Even though it might seem like a little sunscreen wouldn't hurt, it can actually add up and impact the ecosystem in natural swimming pools. Sunscreens with chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate can mess with fish and other wildlife, causing issues over time.

Natural pools work by using plants and good bacteria to keep the water clean, so adding those chemicals can throw things off balance. The best bet is to go for eco-friendly, biodegradable sunscreens. Also, try to rinse off any excess sunscreen before you jump in. Keeping the pool well-maintained with good filtration helps a lot too.

By taking these steps, you can enjoy your swim without worrying about harming the ecosystem. If you’re curious, there are some great studies out there, like those in Environmental Health Perspectives and Environmental Science & Technology.

The biological filter in the regeneration zone is the unsung hero in controlling pathogens. This zone, teeming with plants and microbes, acts as nature’s defense mechanism, absorbing and neutralizing harmful bacteria and viruses. Imagine the scene: antibacterial agents from fungi—yes, the same family that brought us penicillin—and a host of small critters like nematodes and protozoa actively consuming these unwelcome guests. The complexity of this ecosystem ensures that pathogens are not only trapped but transformed biologically. They're caught in the sticky biofilm, amongst roots and gravel, where, if conditions are right, beneficial organisms flourish, much like the flora in your own stomach.

Regarding Naegleria fowleri (Brain Eating amoebas), a concern in natural bodies of water like lakes and rivers, natural pools present a safer alternative due to the constant circulation through a potent natural filter. This safety is contingent on maintaining water temperatures below 27°C and managing swimmer load to avoid overcrowding. The likelihood of encountering harmful pathogens such as fecal coliforms in a privately maintained pool is exceedingly low. Even if temperatures were to exceed 27°C, the risk of contracting Naegleria fowleri (Brain Eating amoebas) remains minimal, statistically about 1 in 142 million. To put it into perspective, even if you swam in water with detectable levels of Naegleria fowleri (Brain Eating amoebas) twice daily for 50 years, your chance of infection would only be about 1 in 4000.

If you feel comfortable swimming in a mountain stream or pond, then swimming in a natural pool should be no less appealing, especially since the odds of infection are even lower. In tropical climates, where conditions are exceptionally warm, integrating UV sterilizers and periodic treatments with Hydrogen Peroxide can further mitigate risks, ensuring your natural pool remains a safe and enjoyable swimming environment.

While copper ionizers can help suppress algae, they’re not well suited to natural pools. Copper tends to accumulate over time, and elevated levels can harm the beneficial microorganisms and aquatic life that are essential to a healthy natural pool ecosystem. Maintaining safe copper levels also requires frequent testing and careful dosing, making it a more chemically intensive and less sustainable approach.

Instead, we rely on finely tuned water chemistry and thoughtfully engineered filtration systems to maintain balance. When algae does appear—which is rare in well-managed systems—we prefer using hydrogen peroxide. It’s effective, fast-acting, and breaks down into harmless oxygen and water within hours, leaving no toxic residues behind.

This approach supports the ecological integrity of the pool while still offering practical control over algae when needed.

Yes, you can run a natural pool on solar power, but if you have a strict energy limit (or budget), it’s best to design the pool and select the pump with those constraints in mind. A smaller, low-power pump running continuously may suffice if you rely on a well-planned wetland for filtration. However, if you need a powerful pump for vacuuming or backwashing, you’ll likely need a larger solar setup (with batteries), which can become costly. Bear in mind that once you factor in the cost of panels, mounting, and a charge controller, solar may be prohibitively expensive for just a single pump—so it’s generally recommended only if the pool is far from any mains supply and off-grid operation is essential.

Yes, natural pools can do well in hot climates, but keeping the water temperature below 26°C (79°F) is essential to prevent algae growth and other unwanted organisms. To maintain this, try installing shade structures like sails, pergolas, or trees around the pool to reduce direct sunlight. Expanding the wetland area to cover up to 50% of the pool’s surface helps cool the water through evaporation and provides natural shade. Adding aeration with pumps or fountains is another great way to circulate the water and prevent hot spots, keeping the pool balanced.

In tropical regions, parasite management is also crucial. Make sure regeneration zones are separate from the swimming area and that the waterline stays below the gravel to prevent habitats for snails that could carry diseases like schistosomiasis (bilharzia). UV sterilizers are effective at killing parasites by disrupting their DNA, while biweekly hydrogen peroxide treatments (30%) can eliminate any remaining risks without leaving chemical residue.

For tropical climates, strong filtration like bead filters and covering the pool when not in use can further protect the water. With these strategies, you can successfully enjoy a natural pond or organic pool, even in the hottest climates!

Owning and maintaining an indoor natural pool can be relatively straightforward with proper planning. These pools require adequate ventilation to manage humidity levels and prevent mold growth. Additionally, if you lack large windows or skylights, installing grow lights that mimic natural sunlight will support the health of aquatic plants. One of the primary benefits of an indoor natural pool is the ability to control environmental factors, making maintenance easier and ensuring the pool is usable year-round.

Creating a real saltwater pool, using actual seawater rather than a saltwater chlorinator, is indeed possible and follows principles similar to those of freshwater natural pools. While I haven't personally undertaken such a project, its feasibility is well demonstrated by large aquariums and marine animal pools, such as those used for dolphins. These systems often incorporate advanced technologies to maintain water quality, such as phosphate removal and sophisticated filtration systems.

In such environments, maintaining the right balance of nutrients is crucial, as excess phosphates can lead to problematic algae growth. Technologies used in these large-scale operations include mechanical filtration, protein skimmers, and chemical treatments specifically designed for marine settings.

An interesting and eco-friendly approach would be to incorporate a biofilter using marine plants. This method would mimic natural coastal ecosystems where marine vegetation plays a critical role in maintaining water quality. Marine plants, such as seagrasses and macroalgae, can absorb excess nutrients and help control algae growth. However, while this concept is promising, I have not seen documented evidence of it being implemented successfully in smaller, private saltwater pools.

Excessively warm temperatures can disrupt the ecological balance of a natural pool, potentially encouraging algae growth and stressing aquatic plants and organisms. While it is possible to heat natural pools, it is recommended to limit the temperature to a maximum of 27°C to avoid these issues. Additionally, using a pool heater generally necessitates keeping the pool covered to retain heat, as up to 70% of the heat can be lost otherwise. This requirement can limit some design choices.

To maintain a high water temperature, it is advisable to incorporate UV sterilizers into the system to help control algae and pathogens. If the goal is to keep the water warm during winter or the cooler months surrounding summer, this approach is usually sufficient. However, if you intend to maintain very high temperatures year-round, I recommend using a combination of UV sterilizers, phosphate filters, and occasional dosages of hydrogen peroxide. This combination will help maintain water clarity and quality while managing potential algae growth and other ecological imbalances.

Unfortunately, aquaponics and natural pools don't complement each other well. A natural pool aims to maintain a very low-nutrient environment, which is not conducive to the growth of edible plants. On the other hand, the nutrient-rich water required for aquaponics would lead to excessive algae growth in a natural pool, disrupting the delicate balance needed for clear water.

Living in Cape Town means planning around water scarcity—something we take seriously in every design. Natural pools do require periodic topping up, especially during the dry summer months. However, we design our systems with drought resilience in mind.

In the event of severe drought or no access to municipal water, we ensure your wetland—the heart of the system—can stay alive even if the swim zone is slowly drained to support it. This allows the ecology to survive long dry spells without full refilling.

That said, for long-term sustainability, an alternative water source like a borehole or well point is essential. Relying on rainwater harvesting is generally not feasible unless you can store upwards of 50,000 litres—a challenge for most urban properties.

If you don’t have access to groundwater, we recommend choosing a design that allows for practical covering during dry months (e.g., a more geometric pool shape rather than a freeform swim pond), as this helps reduce evaporation significantly.

We also encourage smart water use across your property. For instance, installing a backwash tank means you can capture and reuse water from pool maintenance—either for irrigation or, in some cases, to return it to the system after treatment.

If you plan to heat a pool then a cover is almost essential, unless you double the power usage. The thermal losses on the surface of a pool are significant, and even a slight breeze blowing over the water can drastically cool it down. Therefore, it is crucial to always use a thermal pool blanket to cover the pool when it’s not

in use, even if it is an indoor swimming pool. If a thermal pool blanket cannot be used for some reason, we typically recommend increasing the size of the heat pump by three times. This is because, without a blanket, the losses will require you to spend three times more on electricity per month, and the system may still struggle to reach the desired temperature.

It’s important to note that using the correct type of pool thermal blanket significantly reduces evaporative water loss, filtration pump time, and chemical use. Therefore, we highly recommend using a thermal pool blanket even if you are not interested in heating the pool. Approximately 75% of the heat generated by the heat pump can be retained in the water with the use of a solar blanket, making it a highly efficient way to maintain your pool’s temperature and reduce overall maintenance costs.

In a climate like Cape Town’s—where dry, windy days are common—evaporation can lead to significant water loss from your pool. On average, you can lose between 5 to 10 mm of water per day to evaporation, depending on wind exposure, sun, and temperature. For a standard 50,000-litre pool, this adds up quickly. A loss of just 7 mm per day equates to around 10,000 litres per month—or 20% of the total pool volume.

While not essential, a pool cover can make a noticeable difference in reducing evaporation and keeping out debris. That said, choosing to cover a pool always comes down to balancing practicality with aesthetics.

At the high end, there are motorized covers that require a cavity to be built into the pool structure. At the simpler end, there are floating bubble covers that can be manually removed.

With a natural pool, the design often determines what kind of cover—if any—can be used. It’s completely fine to cover the swimming area of a natural pool, as long as there are no fish and you avoid covering aquatic plants like lilies. In fact, covering the water can help block sunlight and reduce algae growth.

If you're considering a rigid cover that spans the pool using aluminium rods, be aware that this can be impractical if the edges of your pool include planted wetland zones. It's worth deciding early—before building—whether you want to use a cover and how it will be integrated into the design.

That said, even a simple plastic bubble cover remains an effective option for smaller pools and can be removed by hand when needed.