17 yrs in, this M’sian biz continues to disrupt the pool industry with their chlorine-free tech
It was 2007, and the Malaysian real estate landscape was booming. Families were upgrading to semi-detached homes and bungalows, indulging in architectural grandeur.
But there’s a catch—those grand backyards often weren’t big enough for traditional swimming pools. The very lifestyle that should accompany such luxury—a place for fitness, family, and relaxation—was compromised.
That’s when SmartPools, a company that dared to reimagine the pool experience, stepped in. Founded by Faizan Khan, who spent his childhood between the UK and the US and boasts a corporate career across Asia and the West, SmartPools sought to tackle this lifestyle gap.
“People were being denied a space for wellness and memory-making, simply because of space constraints,” Faizan explained.
With a revolutionary idea in mind, SmartPools set out to create a pool that wasn’t just a pool—it was an engineering marvel capable of turning even a compact space into an Olympic-class swimming experience.
They also claim to be Asia’s first natural mineral water pool due to the rarity of chemical-free solutions in the pool industry back then.
Pooling big dreams in small spaces
SmartPools’ flagship technology, the LAPS (Linear Aquatic Propulsion System), redefines what a backyard pool can achieve.
With a current generating a volumetric flow of 30,000 litres per minute, swimmers can enjoy the sensation of an endless pool in an area as compact as a parking bay.
It sounds almost too good to be true—like a tech gimmick that couldn’t possibly replace a “real” swimming pool. But Faizan argues otherwise: “Our pools give you the functionality of an Olympic-sized pool without taking up more space than you’d need for a car.”
The result? A fitness-focused swimming experience that integrates seamlessly into urban living spaces.
And it’s not just about fitness—families can bond over a pool session, all without worrying about the logistical nightmare of traditional pool construction, he said.
Chlorine-free: A wellness revolution
For years, pool owners endured a chlorine-based tyranny: irritated skin, stinging eyes, and brittle hair were unavoidable side effects of keeping pools clean.
“It was a necessary evil,” he admitted, “but we saw an opportunity to disrupt that narrative.”
SmartPools introduced the Nature-Pro, a 100% chlorine-free sanitisation system using photocatalytic oxidation paired with hydrogen peroxide. It’s a mouthful of science, but in essence, it means bacteria and viruses are eradicated without the chemical baggage of chlorine.
A closer look reveals why this matters. While alternatives like saltwater systems claim to be “gentler,” they often merely generate chlorine through different pathways. In saltwater pools, chlorine is produced on-site from sodium chloride, while traditional pools use chlorine tablets or sticks to sanitize the water.
The Nature-Pro sidesteps this entirely, relying on hydrogen peroxide, which breaks down into hydrogen and oxygen—two harmless elements, Faizan said.
He added, “Our pools are not only free from chlorine’s side effects but are also more effective against tough microorganisms like Cryptosporidium and Giardia.”
Plug-and-play pools
Traditional pool construction is a long, disruptive process involving months of digging, concrete curing, and onsite work.
In stark contrast, SmartPools’ Arena Series seems like a modular marvel. Prefabricated in a controlled factory environment, these pools are literally dropped into place using a lorry crane, ready for use in 30-45 days.
This approach not only reduces installation time but also significantly lowers the environmental impact, earning SmartPools a coveted green certification.
“Our plug-and-play model minimises waste, transportation emissions, and the carbon footprint typically associated with pool construction,” Faizan highlighted.
For homeowners, this means less hassle and faster gratification.
More than just a pool
While SmartPools initially targeted landed property homeowners, the company quickly found unexpected markets. For example:
- Homestay operators discovered that pools could command higher rental premiums, making SmartPools a valuable partner.
- Swim academies saw the LAPS system as an ideal training tool for competitive swimmers.
- The healthcare sector recognised its hydrotherapy potential, using SmartPools for rehabilitation and physical therapy.
“Water’s natural hydrostatic pressure offers remarkable muscle tension relief and improved circulation,” Faizan shared. Facilities like Sime Darby Medical Centre have adopted SmartPools for their therapeutic benefits.
But what about the price tag?
At RM50,000 to RM100,000, SmartPools isn’t exactly a budget option. But Faizan insisted that the value far outweighs the cost: “You’re not just buying a pool; you’re investing in wellness, convenience, and a luxurious lifestyle.”
They are also a fibreglass pool provider in Malaysia, Australia, UAE and Japan, according to their website.
Still, it’s fair to wonder if the average Malaysian homeowner is ready to splurge on a pool solution that costs as much as a small car. But considering the rising trend of wellness investments, SmartPools seems well-positioned to tap into an evolving market.
Is this the future of pools?
SmartPools has carved out a niche by challenging traditional norms and offering a genuinely innovative product. Yet, one can’t help but wonder: Is this too much innovation for a market still getting used to basic upgrades like saltwater pools?
The scepticism lingers, but it’s hard to deny the appeal of a product that simplifies pool ownership while elevating its potential.
From the seamless installation process to the chemical-free sanitisation system, SmartPools has turned a luxury item into a practical, eco-friendly investment.
As Faizan puts it, “We’re not just building pools; we’re creating sanctuaries for wellness and family bonding. That’s a vision worth swimming towards.”
With its groundbreaking technology and focus on wellness, SmartPools is making waves in the Malaysian pool industry—one backyard at a time.
- You can learn more about SmartPools here.
- Read other articles we’ve written about Malaysian startups here.
Featured Image Credit: SmartPools