Chemical-Free Swimming Pools

Flipping the script on what backyard pools should be, Mick Hilleary of Total Habitat, has introduced America to a more natural way of keeping a pool clean that doesn't involve chemicals. Natural swimming pools originated in Europe about 20 years ago but haven't picked up here in the states. Mick is trying to change that and with the "green" movement gathering momentum his swimming pools may be primed for the big-time.

   

The construction of these swimming pools represent more of a backyard pond with lush vegetation living near and on the surface of the water. The plants are key to keeping the pool clean and the water is constantly run through regeneration zones that filter using friendly bacteria. The drawback is algae which is harmless but unpleasant. Apparently these pools take a year to normalize and adapt to the environment but until then the color may be a bit green.