How Chlorine Generators Work

• Chlorine generators function through a process called electrolysis. Water flowing past the generator transforms into cells and creates chlorine, which turns into hypochlorous acid. This acid is the building block of chlorine, which in turn, sanitizes the water.
  
  

Brine Units

• In order for a chlorine generator to work, there must be salt in the pool. For pools without salt, brine units are installed, which have salt tanks inside their machinery. The salt is repeatedly pumped into the pool, and the chlorine circulates throughout. Problems arise with these generators when there is no salt in the tank. Because pools must have salt in them for the chlorine to work, the generator will fail to function if the tank is out of salt. Pool owners are encouraged to check for salt levels in brine units at least every two weeks.
  
  

Maintenance

• Chlorine generators can fail to operate properly because of mineral deposit buildup. Even small amounts of blockage will cause the generator to stop working. Commercial pool owners must clean filters every month. Homeowners with pools should clean filters every three months. During winter months, chlorine generators in outdoor pools can freeze and fail to work when warmer weather comes around. This can be avoided by running the generator at least once a month during cooler weather.
  
  

Options

• Chlorine generators can be costly, and may require regular maintenance to eliminate problems. Some owners choose to purchase fresh water because they do not need as much upholding. Fresh water pools, however, need to have water changed frequently depending on how often they are used. Another option to avoid problems is to have a salt generator installed instead. These generators are similar to brine units, but they do not pump chlorine. Again, salt must be inserted bimonthly (depending on the pool size) to keep pools clean.
  
  

Generator Life

• The average chlorine generator lasts for approximately 10,000 hours of operation, or three to five years depending on how often the pool is used. Some may last longer, but if problems arise after five years, it may be best to stop paying for repairs and purchase a new generator. Water chemistry balance, salt levels and stabilizer levels can extend the life of a generator. It is also best to turn off generators when not in use.