Small swimming pools dominate Australian backyards
For decades Australian homes had big backyards and big swimming pools to boot. Fast forward to now and this is no longer the case. The size of our backyards has shrunk dramatically to make room for more housing and people. This is where smaller pool varieties have shone, and their popularity has risen in recent years. Although our blocks are smaller, our love of swimming pools hasn’t wavered.
CEO of Barrier Reef Pools Bryce Steele confirms the growing interest in smaller pool types and said smaller pools are in demand now more than ever. He said the average Greater Perth backyard size has been slashed over recent years from 575sqm in 2005-2006 to 427sqm in 2019-2020 but finding a pool to suit was still very much a possibility. Smaller pool varieties such as a plunge pool or swim spa are ideal for lounging in on a hot summer day and are suited to modestly-sized backyards. “Our pool range has become even more extensive, so a pool can be found to fit most backyards,” he said.
Why choose a smaller pool type?
If you have a small backyard, there’s only so big your pool can be, but did you know there are many benefits to choosing a smaller pool? Here are just some of them:
Cost-effective to run
Smaller pools require fewer chemicals to keep the water clean and hygienic. The fewer chemicals you have to use. the less money it will cost you. Not only that, because of their modest size they don’t need a large pump to sanitise the water. The pump distributes your chemicals and circulates your water, without it, the chemicals wouldn’t work properly, and your pool would turn green quite quickly. Your pump is also the biggest energy consumer of all your pool equipment. Smaller pools don’t usually need a powerful pump and they generally don’t need to run for as many hours during the day.
Can save you time
A small swimming pool is easier to clean than a large one. This means you’ll spend less time cleaning it and more time enjoying it, after all, no one wants to be spending their spare time cleaning their pool.
Reduce your water consumption
Little pools use less water. Evaporation is the main source of water loss and having to continuously fill up a large pool can add up. Smaller pools need smaller top-ups which can save you money on your water bill.
Accessories are cheaper
All pools need a few essential pieces of equipment to keep them looking their best. Some standard ones include an automatic pool cleaner and a pool cover. Both are cheaper when buying them for a smaller pool. The automatic cleaner doesn’t need to have a large motor to get the job done. Pool covers are smaller, so they’re not as expensive as bigger ones. This can save you a considerable amount of money if you choose to install an automatic cover for your pool as they can be quite expensive.
Find The Perfect Small Pool To Fit Your Home!
The pool area is more affordable
The area surrounding your pool will need to have flooring. If you are limited on space, your flooring area can’t be overly large, this can save you money on materials. The amount of pool fencing you will need for your pool will also be less.
Safer for young children learning to swim
All Barrier Reef Pools have safety features included and an adult should always be watching children in the pool, but a smaller pool is an extra element of safety for young swimmers who are gaining confidence in the water. Rather than having to swim a long distance to get from one side to another as you would in a large pool, the distance in a smaller pool is much shorter. This can help children to improve in their swimming.
Cheaper to install than a larger pool
Generally, the groundwork needed to install a small pool is less than a large pool, so this may save you money on the installation.
Leaves room for other elements
It’s not only those with small backyards that can benefit from choosing a small pool for their home. By installing a smaller pool or spa, it frees up room for other elements. This allows the space to be multipurpose rather than devoting the entire backyard to a pool only. There’s no denying a swimming pool forms a centrepiece in a backyard, however as Mr Steele states, it doesn’t have to come at the expense of other features such as a garden or lush vegetation, you can have the best of both worlds. “It’s about finding functionality,” he said. “If you have a smaller area to work with, having a bench seat to sit and relax on or including some shady vegetation is important so you can escape the heat on a hot summer’s day.”
Offers all the same benefits as a larger pool
The great thing about our series here at Barrier Reef Pools is our current pool designs cater to every taste. Our smaller pools are simply compacted versions of our larger pools and can offer much of the same benefits.
They look modern and stylish
Mr Steele states “Many pool buyers have a theme in mind when creating their ultimate backyard, often inspired by luxurious family holidays in their favourite destination.” This can be achieved with any style of pool, our small varieties included.
Heat efficiently
Fibreglass pools are ideal for heating, they retain and insulate warmth. Smaller pools heat up fast and efficiently. “By adding spa jets and heating functions, your pool can be easily transitioned to the cooler months, while the addition of extra lighting in and around your pool will encourage use at night time,” Mr Steele said. This allows you to use your pool year-round and make the most of your swimming season.
Which is the most popular Barrier Reef Pools small swimming pool?
According to Mr Steele, the Caprice Slimline design is the most popular smaller pool from Barrier Reef Pools. It comes in two sizes, 4.2m by 2.8m or 5.2m by 2.8m. He said “Although the Caprice Slimline is a small model, it’s extremely versatile. With a bench seat running down the length of one side, there is the option of turning this into a seated spa section. If the idea of dual access appeals, the Caprice Slimline offers an entry point at each end of the pool, making it a flexible choice when it comes to placement in your backyard.”
For homeowners looking for something different, Mr Steele suggests a plunge pool. “With houses becoming bigger and blocks getting smaller, plunge pools could be the perfect option for your backyard or courtyard area,” he said. “A great feature of the plunge pool is the small safety ledge incorporated into the vertical walls around the perimeter, allowing parents to relax while their children have a swim.”
Small pools are in! They look great, are cheaper to run and there are options to suit every budget. If you’d like more information, get in contact with our friendly team here at Barrier Reef Pools Perth, we are happy to answer any questions you may have.
