Naked vs Saltwater Pools: Setting the Record Straight

At Naked Pools, we often hear from homeowners who are interested in a healthier alternative to traditional salt or chlorine pools—but who also receive conflicting advice from builders or pool professionals. A recent enquiry from a Perth-based customer summed it up perfectly:

“Hi, we have a strong preference for the Naked System but some builders are very anti, pro saltwater, as they say the chlorine levels are below Australian standard, the system doesn’t break down sunscreen, and can’t handle the hot Perth temperatures, and copper stains the pool and hair. If it was that bad, nobody would use it. We’ll use a pool expert for maintenance but want to know what to expect and how to prevent these issues.”

We really appreciate questions like this because they open the door to honest conversations. So, let’s explore the differences between Naked Freshwater and saltwater pools, and address these common concerns head-on.

 

1. Chlorine Levels & Australian Standards

Naked Pools’ Freshwater Systems are fully compliant with Australian Standards for residential pools. It achieves sanitation using a blend of copper and silver ionisation with oxidation, which significantly reduces the need for high levels of chlorine.

The confusion here usually comes from comparing apples to oranges—saltwater pools generate chlorine continuously through salt electrolysis, whereas our system sanitises in a way that naturally maintains a safe, healthy swimming environment without harsh chemicals. Less chlorine does not mean less hygiene—it means fewer side effects like skin irritation, dry hair, and chlorine smell and feel.

 

2. Sunscreen & Organic Matter

Salt or traditional chlorine pools rely heavily on chlorine to oxidise organic matter like sunscreen, sweat and body oils. In Naked Pools, this function is handled by the oxidation chamber, which is part of the dual process alongside copper/silver ionisation.

For heavy sunscreen use (particularly in sunny, high-use areas like Perth and tropical climates), we recommend adjusting timers to suit and the use of the  OXI BOOST feature of the unit which is a quick and simple part of routine maintenance that gives the pool an extra kick of oxidation. This ensures optimal water clarity and helps break down any organic build-up before it becomes a problem—all without reverting to full chlorine dosing.

 

3. Performance in Dry Heat & Tropical Climates

Our systems are designed and tested for Australia’s harshest conditions, including the extreme summer heat of Perth and the humidity of tropical climates like northern Queensland, Darwin, or Southeast Asia.

The ionisation process remains stable regardless of heat, UV, or humidity. In fact, many of our customers across these hotter regions enjoy Naked Freshwater pools year-round with no impact on performance.

To ensure the best results during peak summer:

• Run your filtration system for longer during hotter months
• Maintain correct water balance, especially pH and calcium levels
• Engage a qualified technician for regular checks and water testing if you don’t have the time to do it yourself (you’re already planning this—great move!)

 

4. Copper Staining & Hair Discolouration

Let’s bust this myth clearly: copper in water does not automatically mean stains or green hair.

Copper staining occurs when water balance is poorly maintained—usually when pH or calcium levels are off balance for a long time. With proper care and simple monthly checks, this is not an issue in Naked Pools. Our system releases controlled amounts of copper well within safe, effective ranges, and we provide ongoing guidance to help you maintain this balance.

As for green hair? That’s typically the result of excess copper from outdated copper-based algaecides, not our precision-controlled system. Naked Pools keeps copper levels consistent and safe—and green hair simply isn’t a problem with proper maintenance. It is also worth noting, although rare, that green hair tinge can very much relate to the individuals DNA and pH or their hair opposed to the actual pool water.

 

Why Some Builders Still Recommend Salt

Many pool builders recommend saltwater systems because:

• They’re familiar and easy to install
• The technology has been around for decades
• And (to be frank) they require less explanation or training

But what’s easiest for the builder isn’t always best for the pool owner. Some builders haven’t caught up with the latest freshwater technology or have yet to install a Naked system themselves.

If your builder isn’t confident, we’re more than happy to speak directly with them and help bridge the knowledge gap.

 

Why Some Pool Shops Don’t Recommend Naked

It’s important to understand that many traditional pool shops operate around the sale of chemicals—chlorine, salt, algaecides, and stabilisers—which make up a significant part of their business model. Since the Naked System dramatically reduces the need for these ongoing chemical purchases, some shops may be hesitant to recommend it simply because it challenges their revenue streams. In some cases, staff may also lack direct experience with freshwater systems and default to what they know best: chlorine or salt-based solutions. That said, more and more forward-thinking pool professionals and technicians across Australia are embracing systems like Naked because they see firsthand the benefits for both water quality and customer health.

 

So Why Choose Naked?

• Healthier water: No salt, no harsh chlorine, no chemical smell
• Gentle on skin, eyes, and hair: Enjoy the water like nature intended
• Powerful sanitisation: Ionisation + oxidation kills bacteria, viruses, and algae
• Designed for Australian conditions: Proven in hot, dry climates like Perth and humid, tropical regions
• Simple maintenance: With expert support, Naked App and our Care Plan, you’re never on your own

 

What Our Customers Say

“We live in far north Queensland and were initially unsure about switching from salt to freshwater—but now we’ll never go back. The water is so soft and clean, and our pool stays crystal clear even through the hottest months. Our kids haven’t had any skin issues since switching and it’s such a relief not to smell like chlorine after a swim.”
— Lisa M., Cairns QLD

Read more testimonials

In Summary

If the Naked Freshwater System wasn’t effective, it wouldn’t be used in thousands of homes across Australia—from hot, dry Perth suburbs to humid, tropical towns. Like any pool, it needs basic care and regular water balance checks—but with the right setup and support, you can enjoy the cleanest, gentlest water available today.

Got more questions? We’re always happy to help you, or your builder, make an informed decision.