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I. Introduction
Swimming pools have become a popular addition to many homes, and natural swimming pools are increasingly gaining attention. Natural swimming pools are a great alternative to traditional chlorine-based swimming pools. They provide a more natural and eco-friendly way of enjoying a swim while still providing the same level of hygiene and comfort. Learn more about the design, construction, maintenance, and benefits of natural swimming pools in this comprehensive overview.
A. What is a Natural Swimming Pool?
A natural swimming pool is a type of swimming pool that uses plants and bacteria to filter and clean the water. This creates a swimming pool that is chemical-free and environmentally friendly. These types of pools combine a beautiful design with sustainability by using plants as part of the filtration system. The roots of plants act as filters, taking in nitrogen and phosphates from the water. They also provide oxygen for good bacteria, which help to break down leaves and other things in the water. This provides a more balanced ecosystem that is healthier for both people and wildlife. In addition, natural swimming pools offer a low-maintenance approach compared to regular swimming pools since there is no need to add chemicals. Their ability to provide a healthy, chemical-free environment for swimming and relaxation.
B. Benefits of Natural Swimming Pools
a) Environmentally Friendly: Natural swimming pools utilize natural plants and biological filtration systems to keep the water clean.
b) Health benefits: Natural swimming pools do not use the same chemicals that are in traditional pools. This makes them a good choice for people to swim in.
c) Aesthetic Appeal: Natural swimming pools blend seamlessly into their surroundings, creating a beautiful and peaceful oasis in your backyard or community.
II. Design and Construction
Natural swimming pools offer endless design possibilities. Here are just a few of the many design possibilities with natural swimming pools:
i. Shape and Size: Natural swimming pools come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from simple rectangular designs to more complex, curvilinear shapes that mimic the curves of nature. They can be designed to fit any space, whether large or small, and can be tailored to meet your needs.
ii. Water Features: Natural swimming pools can incorporate a wide range of water features, such as waterfalls, streams, and fountains, to enhance their beauty.
A. Steps to Design and Construct a Natural Swimming Pool
a) Site Selection: Choose a location with plenty of shade and also areas with sun exposure, and adequate space for the pool and surrounding vegetation. The pool should not be at the lowest point of the site and be at least 10 feet away from septic systems, wells, etc.
b) Size and Shape: Determine the size and shape of the pool based on the available space and desired use. Consider adding a shallow, plant-filled regeneration zone to help filter the water.
c) Excavation and Lining: Excavate the area to the desired depth and shape, and line the pool with a waterproof membrane or construct using bricks.
d) Filtration and Circulation: Install a natural filtration system, such as a gravel and plant filter, to keep the water clean and clear. Use a submersible pump to circulate the water between the pool and the regeneration zone. Add UV, aeration, and advanced subterranean biological filters along with circulation to make sure the water is clear.
e) Planting and Landscaping: Choose aquatic plants and landscaping that will thrive in the local climate and soil conditions. Plant these around the pool and in the regeneration zone to create a natural environment that will help filter and clean the water.
B. Considerations for Designing Natural Swimming Pools
f) Design: Do you want a natural swimming pool that looks more modern and elegant or a natural pool that blends into the landscape and looks natural?
g) Re-generation Zone: The size of the re-generation zone will dictate the size of the advanced subterranean biological filter. Also, if the re-generation zone will be part of the natural swimming pool or built separately?
h) Sunlight: Hours of direct sunlight and intensity have to be considered while choosing the size of the UV filter.
i) Water parameters: These need to be considered before selecting the aquatic plants for the re-generation Zone.
j) Rocks: The type and size of rocks that are available and the distance of the location of rocks to the natural swimming pool site.
III. Maintenance
Natural swimming pools are easier to maintain than traditional pools, but there is maintenance that needs to be done to keep the pool clean. The most important thing in a natural swimming pool is to keep the water moving.
A. Steps to Maintain a Natural Swimming Pool
a) Skim and Vacuum the Pool: Skimming and vacuuming the pool is a good way to get rid of leaves and other things that can build up in the pool. This helps to prevent the growth of algae and other microorganisms that can cloud the water and make it unsafe for swimming.
b) Keep plants and filtration system clean: If you have plants in your natural swimming pool, make sure to keep them clean and remove any dead plants or leaves. This will help prevent organic matter from building up in the pool. Additionally, make sure to regularly clean the filtration system, including the skimmer and pump. This helps to keep the water circulating properly and prevent the growth of algae and other microorganisms.
c) Monitor Water Levels: It is important to keep the water level in the pool consistent. If the water level is too low, the pump might run dry, which could damage it. If the water level is too high, flooding and soil loss can happen.
d) Add Beneficial Bacteria: Natural swimming pools rely on beneficial bacteria to keep the water clean and clear. Adding a regular dose of beneficial bacteria can help to maintain the pool's ecosystem and keep the water healthy for swimming.
B. Tips for Maintaining a Natural Swimming Pool
a) Circulation: Make sure that the pumps are not clogged up and are running effectively. Effective circulation will take care of most problems that may arise in a natural swimming pool.
b) Filtration: Check and clean the filter with pool water and not fresh water. This makes sure all the beneficial bacteria that have been growing in the filters are not killed. We clean the filters to clean the slug and not to destroy the good bacteria.
c) Aeration: check and clean the aeration to make sure it's working effectively. Aeration not only helps in controlling the algae growth but also ineffective circulation.
d) Plants: Trim overgrown and dead plants. Add fertilizers to plants to keep them lush and healthy. Remember, healthy plants mean clear water.
IV. Costs
The cost of building a natural swimming pool will greatly depend on the design and features that are needed in the natural swimming pool. Natural swimming pools cost more to build than traditional pools, but they are easier to keep clean and require less work. For people who still want a rough cost to give an idea, the cost will be between Rs 3000/- and Rs 6000/- per sq. Ft on average. So for 500 sq.ft, the price will start at 15 lacs, and for 1000 Sq.ft the price will start at 30 lacs.
V. Conclusion
In conclusion, natural swimming pools are a unique, sustainable, and environmentally friendly alternative to chlorine-based pools. With the right balance of design and construction elements, they can provide clean, clear water without chemical usage and impacts on the environment. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, natural swimming pools are a good choice for those wanting a pool that is low maintenance.
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