We would love to hear about your current BioNova® projects. Please send Ryan, ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com, any information and pictures of your projects and we will gladly put them in the newsletter to share with all of the dealers. Thank you and we hope to see your inputs soon!

Here’s what’s happening at BioNova® Natural Pools North America…

Celebrate Independence from Chlorine This Fourth of July

250 years ago the founding fathers didn’t have chlorine and you don’t need it either. For many families, the Fourth of July means backyard barbecues, pool parties, fireworks, and making memories with friends and family. But for many traditional pool owners, the holiday weekend starts with something a little less exciting, testing water, adding chemicals, balancing pH, shocking the pool, and making one last trip to the pool store.

Natural pool owners have a different kind of Independence Day.

Instead of spending the morning measuring chlorine levels and worrying about whether the water is ready for guests, they’re setting out lawn chairs, filling coolers with ice, firing up the grill, and getting ready to enjoy the weekend. Their pool is being maintained by something much more remarkable than a collection of chemical bottles, a living biological filtration system.

Inside every BioNova Natural Pool, billions of beneficial microorganisms are continuously at work. These naturally occurring microbes colonize the biofilm filter, where they break down organic matter and help keep the water clean and clear without relying on chlorine or other harsh chemicals. And during the warm days of midsummer, this biological ecosystem is operating at peak performance.

That means the hottest part of the summer is often when a natural pool looks its best. Warm temperatures encourage healthy biological activity, creating exceptionally clear, inviting water while maintaining a balanced aquatic ecosystem.

Of course, every pool benefits from a little attention. Skimming leaves, emptying skimmer baskets, and performing routine equipment checks are all part of good pool care. But instead of constantly adjusting water chemistry, natural pool owners can spend more of their holiday doing what pools are meant for, swimming, relaxing, and enjoying time with the people who matter most.

This Fourth of July, celebrate more than our nation’s independence. Celebrate the freedom that comes from leaving behind weekly chemical routines and embracing a healthier, more natural way to swim.

From all of us at BioNova® Natural Pools, we wish you a safe, relaxing, and unforgettable Independence Day. Happy Fourth of July!

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 7/3/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

One of the most rewarding parts of building a natural swimming pool is seeing how it performs years after completion. Recently, we had the opportunity to check in on a BioNova® Natural Pool that was completed almost two years ago, and the results were impressive.

This project in Haddonfield, NJ, which is just 10 miles outside of Philadelphia, was designed closely with the home owner to build a pool that is natural in shape and form and matches and blends well with the existing landscaping. The pool is design to be a 21’x42’ freeform pool with a surface area of approximately 806 square feet. The shallow end is 4 feet deep and the deep end is 6 feet.

The pool is filtered with a 18 tube BF4. Part of the client’s request was to have a curved BF4 vault that followed the contours of the pool so a curved vault was built off the deep end and feed water through two SkimmerKlappes.

The water remains crystal clear, the biological filtration system is performing exactly as designed, and the pool continues to provide a beautiful, chemical-free swimming experience. Even into its second full season of use, the ecosystem has matured beautifully, requiring only routine maintenance while delivering exceptional water quality.

Most importantly, the homeowners couldn’t be happier. They continue to enjoy swimming in naturally filtered water and appreciate how seamlessly the pool blends into their landscape. Their enthusiasm serves as a great reminder that natural pools aren’t just a sustainable alternative to traditional pools, they’re a long-term investment in healthier, more enjoyable outdoor living.

Seeing a project thrive years after installation is a testament to the effectiveness of natural pool design and the lasting value it brings to homeowners.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 6/19/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

If you or your clients have been rethinking your backyard pool, this may be the year to go natural. Natural swimming pools are gaining attention as a healthier, more eco-friendly alternative to traditional chlorinated pools, but how do they really compare?

Water Quality & Health

Traditional pools rely on chlorine and other chemicals to keep water clear, which can irritate skin, eyes, and hair. Natural swimming pools use biological filtration, plants, gravel, and beneficial microorganisms, to clean the water naturally, creating a gentler swimming experience with no chemical smell.

Maintenance & Long-Term Costs

Conventional pools often require frequent chemical balancing, shock treatments, and ongoing supply costs. Natural pools shift the work toward ecosystem care: managing plants, debris, and circulation. While the upfront investment can be comparable or slightly higher, long-term costs are often lower due to reduced chemical and energy use.

Environmental Impact

Traditional pools consume chemicals, water, and energy. Natural pools are designed to work with nature, supporting biodiversity, reducing chemical runoff, and often using less water over time. Many owners value the sustainability as much as the swim.

Aesthetics & Experience

A standard pool offers a familiar, uniform look. A natural swimming pool blends into the landscape, resembling a pond or alpine lake. It can attract birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects, turning your pool into a living feature, not just a utility.

Seasonal Living

Traditional pools are usually “closed” outside of summer. Natural pools remain visually appealing year-round, evolving with the seasons and becoming part of the garden even when not in use.

If you’re looking for a pool that prioritizes health, sustainability, and a deeper connection to nature, this could be the year you go natural.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 6/12/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

A new natural swimming pool project is taking shape in Mullica Hill, bringing sustainable luxury and chemical-free swimming to another residential property in the Garden State. Designed around the principles of biological filtration and ecological balance, the new pool will combine modern geometry with the clean, living-water experience that has made natural pools increasingly popular across North America.

The pool itself will measure 20 feet by 44 feet, creating approximately 880 square feet of swimming area. The generous dimensions will provide ample room for recreation, exercise, and relaxation while maintaining the sleek appearance of a contemporary luxury pool. At the heart of the system will be a 20-tube BF4 biofilter

The Mullica Hill project represents another example of how natural swimming pools are evolving beyond rustic pond aesthetics into highly engineered contemporary installations. Modern natural pools can incorporate clean lines, submerged entries, lighting, heating systems, and automated features while still maintaining a chemical-free environment.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 5/22/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

We would love to hear about your current BioNova® projects. Please send Ryan, ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com, any information and pictures of your projects and we will gladly put them in the newsletter to share with all of the dealers. Thank you and we hope to see your inputs soon!

Here’s what’s happening at BioNova® Natural Pools North America…

Update NSP Project in Catonsville, Maryland

We’re excited to share a new update on the NSP project in Catonsville, MD. Since our last announcement, several key aspects of the project have evolved.

As a refresher, this project will be a rectilinear pool measuring 47 feet by 9 feet designed for lap swimming. It will also have a planted wetlands area measuring 27 feet by 3.5 feet. The pool will have a swimming area of 417 square feet and the pond area will be 95 square feet. The pool will be filtered with a 12 tube BF4, set in the corner of the pool.

Since our last update separation walls were installed in the regeneration zone. Then the PoolHide liner was installed by our master welder. The client choose a light gray which will look amazing once the pool is filled. This past week, geotextile was laid into the both the regeneration zone and BF4 vault to protect the liner from the gravel. Then the 12 tube BF4 was installed as well as the under gravel plumbing for the regeneration zone. Next steps will be equipment installation and final plumbing.

As always, we look forward to updating you on this project as it progresses.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 5/15/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

3. Eco-Balancing Act

Diatoms are part of the pool’s microbial food web. They feed tiny zooplankton, which in turn help control mosquito larvae and other nuisances, keeping your pool biologically balanced.

4. Low-Maintenance Allies

Unlike mechanical filters or chemical treatments, diatoms do their job quietly and efficiently without any added cost or effort from you—assuming your pool stays within healthy ecological parameters.

Encouraging Diatom Growth
Want to make sure these microscopic allies thrive in your pool? Here’s how:

• Avoid harsh chemicals (Obviously): Diatoms can’t survive in chlorinated environments. Natural pools give them the ideal chemical-free home.
• Maintain plant zones: Healthy aquatic plants create the right conditions, nutrient balance, light filtration, and oxygen for diatoms to flourish.
• Support water circulation: Diatoms prefer gently moving water, which also helps prevent unwanted algae.
• Let sunlight in: Diatoms are photosynthetic, so ensure they get enough indirect light (too much sun, however, can cause unwanted algae to compete).

The Bottom Line
Diatoms may be invisible to the naked eye, but their contribution to your natural swimming pool is huge. By supporting a vibrant and self-sustaining aquatic ecosystem, they reduce your workload while keeping your water naturally clean, safe, and sparkling.

So next time you dip your toes into your pool, take a moment to appreciate the tiny glass-walled organisms working tirelessly to keep it beautiful.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 5/8/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

• Less suspended debris
• Algae starting to die off
• Water clarity beginning to improve

Days 4–5: Natural Filtration Kicks In
With the swimming zone cleaned up, the natural filtration system begins to wake up and take over. Within the system:

• Aquatic plants in the regeneration zone start actively absorbing nutrients from the water.
• Gravel and filter media foster colonies of beneficial bacteria that digest organic material.
• Circulating water distributes oxygen and pushes impurities through the filtration zones.

Days 6–7: Crystal Clear Waters
By the end of the week, the pool will look like a different place entirely. What was once a green, uninviting mess is now a clear, healthy, and vibrant body of water.

The transformation is so fast because the pool’s ecology is designed to self-regulate, once it’s not overwhelmed with excess nutrients or decomposing matter. No chemicals needed. No draining required. Just simple, consistent maintenance and trust in the system.

As long as the regeneration zone is healthy and there’s enough circulation, the system can rebound quickly, even after a long dormant season.

Final Tips for a Smooth Start-Up

• Vacuum daily for the first week, or until most sediment is gone.
• Clean skimmers and filters every few days to avoid clogs.
• Check pumps and circulation to ensure even water flow through both zones.

The Takeaway
A dirty, green natural pool at the beginning of the season is normal, and reversible. With just a week of consistent vacuuming and allowing the natural filtration system to do its job, your pool can go from murky to magnificent without a single drop of chlorine. It’s a testament to the resilience and beauty of nature, when you work with it, not against it.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 5/1/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

We would love to hear about your current BioNova® projects. Please send Ryan, ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com, any information and pictures of your projects and we will gladly put them in the newsletter to share with all of the dealers. Thank you and we hope to see your inputs soon!

Here’s what’s happening at BioNova® Natural Pools North America…

Another NSP in Arizona
Our BioNova® Dealer in Arizona, Zach Balbini, has been busy, and he has completed another project, this one in Sabino Canyon, Arizona.

Proving that natural swimming pools can be created from virtually any starting point, this innovative project in Tucson, Arizona showcases the versatility and performance of BioNova’s biological filtration systems. What began as a standard fiberglass shell has been transformed into a thriving, chemical-free aquatic environment, demonstrating that sustainability and design flexibility can go hand in hand.

Located near the stunning Sabino Canyon area at the base of Mt. Lemmon, the project features the 9’ x 18’ “Canyon Lake” model from San Juan Fiberglass Pools and then was paired with a 5-tube BF4 biofilm filtration system (2.5’ x 10’), allowing it to function as a fully natural swimming pool. 

One of the most striking aspects of this installation is its elevated design. The pool is raised two feet above grade, creating a visually dynamic, three-dimensional feature that stands out in the surrounding desert landscape. A wraparound deck, crafted from elegant travertine stone, provides both functionality and comfort, offering ample space for lounging, socializing, and easy access to the water.

Travertine is particularly well-suited for desert environments like Tucson due to its natural ability to stay cool underfoot, even in intense sun exposure. Its light color reflects heat rather than absorbing it, making it far more comfortable than many other hardscape materials. Additionally, travertine’s porous surface offers excellent slip resistance, an important safety feature around pools, while its durability allows it to withstand extreme temperature swings common in desert climates.

Beyond aesthetics, the raised configuration serves a practical purpose, helping to minimize the intrusion of desert dust and debris, a common challenge in arid regions. The combination of elevation and thoughtful material selection results in a pool area that is both beautiful and highly functional.

To further enhance usability, the pool is equipped with a heating system, so that the pool may be used year round. This blend of natural filtration and modern comfort highlights how natural pools can be tailored to meet a wide range of lifestyle needs without sacrificing sustainability.

After six months of operation, the system recently underwent its first backwash cycle following the initial startup period. The results exceeded expectations: the water clarity was exceptional, reinforcing the effectiveness of the BF4 biofilm filtration system even in a demanding desert environment. This milestone not only validates the system’s performance but also provides confidence in its long-term reliability.

Looking ahead, the homeowner plans to integrate a rainwater catchment system and cistern to collect and reuse backwash water. This forward-thinking addition will further reduce water waste and support the surrounding garden and native landscape, creating a closed-loop system that aligns perfectly with the principles of ecological design.

This project stands as another strong example of Zach Balbini’s continued dedication to advancing NSPs in a wide range of applications. By reimagining a conventional fiberglass shell into a high-performing natural pool, Zach demonstrates both a commitment to innovation and a belief that sustainable water systems should be accessible, adaptable, and visually compelling. Great job to Zach and his team on another outstanding NSP!

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 4/24/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

Spring Opening Tips to Remember
It is spring and the the pool opening season has begun. It’s that time to focus on the special needs an NSP needs when opening and we would like to provide some tips to help you and your clients prepare for spring and getting an NSP up and running.

1. Clean Out Debris from the Water

This is very important. In fact, it’s the most important step to protect against harmful bacteria and nutrient overload. When cleaning, make sure you vacuum the bottom, take care of leaves, pull out the decaying plants, backwash and clean the BF4 vault and tubes, a clean out any pots. While cleaning out the pots this is a great time to add granulated fertilizer or plant fertilizing tabs to stimulate plant growth.

2. Begin Water Filtration 

Start up all of the pumps and get the water circulating. If you live in an area where your pond can dip below 40 degrees during winter, be sure to only activate the pumps once your water reaches back over the 50 degree mark. For warmer climates, you may have been running pumps all winter. If so, continue use of as necessary.

The two most important preparatory steps for Spring are cleaning out any debris in the pond and ensuring properly functioning filtration.
3. Let Time and Bacteria Improve Your Biological Filter

Mother nature needs time to balance the water and patience with an NSP will be your best friend. Specifically, once temperature approach 65 degrees nitrifying bacteria will begin to become active. These bacteria get their energy from the oxidation of inorganic nitrogen compounds.  Types include ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB). Both ammonia and nitrites are harmful to an aquatic environment and build up in the water over the winter. These bacteria oxidize those compounds into nitrate which is beneficial to a healthy NSP.

Please feel free to contact us if you or your clients have any questions during their spring openings.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 4/10/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

Is This the Year You Go Natural? 

More and more people are thinking about natural pools. And if you have clients looking at the benefits, here is a quick article you can send their way to help them compare.

Comparing Natural Pools to Traditional Pools

If you’ve been rethinking your backyard pool, this may be the year to go natural. Natural swimming pools are gaining attention as a healthier, more eco-friendly alternative to traditional chlorinated pools, but how do they really compare?

Water Quality & Health

Traditional pools rely on chlorine and other chemicals to keep water clear, which can irritate skin, eyes, and hair. Natural swimming pools use biological filtration, plants, gravel, and beneficial microorganisms to clean the water naturally, creating a gentler swimming experience with no chemical smell.

Maintenance & Long-Term Costs

Conventional pools often require frequent chemical balancing, shock treatments, and ongoing supply costs. Natural pools shift the work toward ecosystem care: managing plants, debris, and circulation. While the upfront investment can be comparable or slightly higher, long-term costs are often lower due to reduced chemical and energy use.

Environmental Impact

Traditional pools consume chemicals, water, and energy. Natural pools are designed to work with nature, supporting biodiversity, reducing chemical runoff, and often using less water over time. Many owners value the sustainability as much as the swim.

Aesthetics & Experience

A standard pool offers a familiar, uniform look. A natural swimming pool blends into the landscape, resembling a pond or alpine lake. It can attract birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects, turning your pool into a living feature, not just a utility.

Seasonal Living

Traditional pools are usually “closed” outside of summer. Natural pools remain visually appealing year-round, evolving with the seasons and becoming part of the garden even when not in use.

If you’re looking for a pool that prioritizes health, sustainability, and a deeper connection to nature, this could be the year you go natural.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 3/20/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.