The pool craze sweeping Perth and Australia is a fascinating phenomenon, but it's also a costly one. The 'feel-good woke' trend of installing luxurious, Instagram-worthy plunge pools and 'wellness' systems is tempting homeowners, but it may not be as financially savvy as it seems. Industry experts warn that this trend could lead to financial strain and a lot of maintenance headaches.
The backyard oasis has become a symbol of status and summer fun, with over 178,000 private pools in Western Australia and 17% of Perth homes boasting a pool or spa. However, the allure of these trendy features can be misleading. Jim's Pool Care boss, Brett Blair, highlights a critical issue: many homeowners are making decisions without fully understanding the long-term implications.
The 'woke' pool movement, as Blair calls it, is centered around luxury mineral and magnesium pools, marketed as healthier and more 'natural'. But, as he points out, these pools still rely on chlorine for safety, just with a fancy repackaging and a higher price tag. The irony, he says, is that the desire for fewer chemicals often results in a more expensive and complex system.
On the other end of the spectrum, traditional chlorine pools, often dismissed as harsh, remain the most cost-effective option, despite requiring more hands-on maintenance. Saltwater systems, a popular middle ground, automate chlorine production, offering a balance between cost and convenience.
Blair's advice is straightforward: 'If you want simple and affordable, stick with proven systems.' He warns that chasing the latest wellness trend can turn a lifestyle investment into a never-ending headache. The pool industry, it seems, is not immune to the pitfalls of trend-following, and homeowners must be cautious to avoid financial strain and maintenance nightmares.
