Freshwater Pool Review: 3 Years Later – Was It Worth It?
After investing in a freshwater (naked) pool system, owner Geoff shares his honest experience after 3 years. Spoiler: his daughter's skin allergies cleared up, he never uses the outdoor shower he built, and visitors are amazed by the water quality.
Quick Verdict After 3 Years
Why I Chose a Freshwater System
Like many pool owners, I was familiar with highly chlorinated pools – the stinging eyes, that sticky feeling on your skin, the chemical smell. I wanted something different.
"It uses less chlorine, less salts. So, it was just a healthier pool system for me. It's simple. It's easy to use. And you feel like you're swimming in natural, beautiful water."
The freshwater system uses copper and silver for sanitization instead of relying on heavy chlorine. The promise was clear water that felt like a natural swimming hole – in my own backyard.
The 3-Year Experience: What Actually Happened
Daughter's Skin Allergy
This was my biggest worry. My daughter has a skin allergy – quite severe sometimes. I was concerned I'd build this pool, she'd go in once, and that would be it.
Result: We've had the system for 3 years now. We've had no issue at all with her skin issues. She gets in the pool more often than not. It's been tremendous.
No Shower Needed
I put an outdoor shower in at the same time as the pool. Three years later? We don't use it. We don't have to shower or clean off after being in the pool.
Result: We can enjoy being around the pool area and walk straight into the house and sit on furniture – no chlorine residue, no sticky feeling, no chemical smell.
Water Quality After 3 Years
From day one to now (3 years down the track), it's still beautiful to swim. Everyone who comes into our pool and has been in it says the water feels amazing.
Result: The water feels crisp and inviting. It's never cloudy. It feels amazing.
Long-Term Running Costs
Yes, you pay a bit more upfront for a freshwater system. But here's the thing – you're not spending money on all those extra products that other pool filtration systems require.
Result: I'm not spending money to look after my pool. It really does it all. The system has paid for itself through chemical savings.
The App & Ease of Use
One thing that surprised me was how simple the system is to use.
"The Naked system is very easy to use. The app is there. It supports you. Really, I can't say enough about it."
The app provides monitoring and support, making pool maintenance straightforward rather than a chore. No more guessing chemical levels or constant testing.
What Visitors Say
The best test of any pool is how your friends and family react to it.
"Everyone who comes into our pool and has been in the pool says that the water feels amazing."
When people experience freshwater swimming for the first time, the difference is obvious. No stinging eyes, no chemical smell, just clean, refreshing water.
3-Year Verdict: Pros and Cons
Pros
- ✓No skin irritation (daughter's allergy cleared)
- ✓No shower needed after swimming
- ✓Crystal clear, never cloudy water
- ✓Saves money on chemicals
- ✓Simple app-based monitoring
- ✓Feels like natural water
Cons
- •Higher upfront cost than traditional systems
- •Can't think of anything else...
After 3 years of use, I genuinely can't think of other downsides. The upfront cost pays for itself.
Final Verdict: Would I Do It Again?
Absolutely.
Having a natural swimming hole experience in my own backyard? Nearly priceless. My daughter can swim without skin issues. We never use the shower. The water is always crystal clear. It just really is a simple system to use.
Monitor Your Freshwater Pool Chemistry
Even with low-maintenance freshwater systems, monitoring your water quality ensures optimal performance. Use our free calculator to track mineral levels, pH, and more.
Use Free Pool Calculator →Freshwater Pool Maintenance Products
While freshwater systems require minimal chemicals, these products help maintain optimal water quality.
Recommended Products
Products to help fix your pool issues and get back to clear water faster.
Pool Cleaning Net with Fine Mesh
Professional grade skimmer net. Fine mesh captures small debris.
$10.00
Amazon paid link. Confirm current price on Amazon.
Premium Pool Brush with Stainless Steel Bristles
Heavy duty pool brush. Removes algae and dirt effectively.
$24.99
Amazon paid link. Confirm current price on Amazon.
Swimming Pool Cleaning Kit with Aluminum Pole
Complete cleaning kit. Includes pole, brush, and net. Professional quality.
$22.99
Amazon paid link. Confirm current price on Amazon.
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Learn More About Freshwater Pools
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