Types

• Salt water pools are typically built in a sturdy material like concrete, gunite or stone.
  
  

Function

• A salt water pool uses a chlorine generator to convert the chloride in salt into chlorine to clean the water. This results in a type of chlorine that does not break down in direct sunlight like commercially made chlorine does.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Saltwater pools are not completely maintenance-free. The pool's filter pump must still be run periodically to clear out debris in the water. The water pH should be tested every week and adjusted with muriatic acid when necessary.
  
  

Considerations

• Additional salt should be added when the pool's water becomes diluted. This can happen when a significant amount of salt water is splashed out or when a heavy downpour adds clean water to the pool.
  
  

Benefits

• The chlorine generated by a salt water pool system is not as harsh as the chlorine that is poured into standard pools. It does not fade clothing, dry out skin or turn hair green.