Chlorine generators produce chlorine gas by electrolysis. The generator consists of a plastic tank with two compartments separated by a filter-type membrane. The membrane allows electricity to pass through but restricts the chemicals produced to one side. Chlorine gas is generated in the salt solution compartment when the electricity separates the chlorine from the sodium. Hydrogen gas formed in the process is vented out of the generator.
Salt is added periodically to recharge the system.
The chlorine gas is then injected through plastic plumbing into the circulation plumbing. Regulating the current regulates the volume of chlorine produced. Some variations of the chlorine generator include systems that produce the chlorine right in the circulation water flow for direct application to the pool or spa water. All pool or spa equipment rooms should be kept clean and neat, but this is critical in the commercial equipment room. Chemicals should never be stored near equipment, where heat or water leaks could mix with the chemicals, with toxic results.