5 Common Questions About Natural Swim Ponds

Natural swim ponds are a beautiful and functional addition to any property, especially for homeowners looking for a great place to relax, exercise, or entertain guests. While the concept of a swim pond is straightforward, the idea of swimming in a natural body of water in your backyard can be a bit of a strange concept to some people. That is why the recreational swim pond experts at Fontana Ponds & Water Features have put together a list of 5 common questions about natural swim ponds to give homeowners the answers they need to make an informed decision for their property.

Learn about 3 reasons to add fish to your ecosystem pond or swim pond.

5 Natural Swimming Pond FAQs

When it comes to natural swim ponds, there are many questions that pond designers and installers are frequently asked. Some of the most frequently asked questions about swim ponds include:

1. What Chemicals are Used in Swim Ponds?

The chemicals used in natural swim ponds are minimal, as they do not rely on chlorine to kill unwanted organisms. Instead, these ponds use plants and beneficial bacteria to stay clean. Any chemicals present are in support of these natural functions and to level out the pH levels to better sustain aquatic microorganisms, plants, and fish.

2. Are Swim Ponds Healthy to Swim In?

Due to the lack of chemicals and abundance of beneficial organisms, swim ponds are incredibly healthy to swim in. Natural swim ponds have all the invigorating qualities of a lake or pond in the mountains but in a more controlled environment, while only being a few steps from your home.

3. Can Fish Live in a Natural Swim Pond?

Fish can live in many different types of natural swim ponds without issue. It is even encouraged to include them in some larger swim ponds, as they can help to balance out the ecosystem. When adding fish, it is crucial to ensure that you are adding a number that is suitable for the amount of water in your pond.

4. Do Biological Filters Need to be Cleaned?

Unlike swimming pool filters, the biological filters in swim ponds require little to no maintenance. For the most part, the filter shelf will do its own maintenance. To ensure lasting performance, it is a good idea to check all filters on a regular basis to ensure that they are functioning properly.

5. Can a Natural Swim Pond Freeze in the Winter?

Like most natural bodies of water, swim ponds can freeze in the winter without any issues occurring. Fish and plant life should be able to survive unless any exotic organisms have been introduced to the pond. If this is the case, you will need to ensure that all required precautions are taken to keep these organisms alive during winter. In addition to plant, fish, and organism health, it is important to make sure that all pipes and pumps are properly winterized to ensure that no damage is done to the pond’s mechanical workings.