You can build a plunge pool in an 8-by-8-foot space. Many plunge pools are about 8 to 12 feet wide, 2 to 24 feet long, and 4 to 8 feet deep. While these pools are smaller than your average swimming pool, you may want additional space for a deck or patio to surround the plunge pool.

The generator in your saltwater pool conversion kit transforms sodium chloride—the same salt as table salt—into chlorine. A process called electrolysis sends electricity through the water to interact with the chlorine ion. This ultimately creates the chlorine that keeps your pool safe and clean. The cell in your saltwater chlorine generator is the part that converts the salt into chlorine.

Aboveground pools take between one day to a few days to install, depending on the pool size and type. Your project may take longer if you’re planning to complete other projects simultaneously, like building a deck around the pool. If your land is hilly or rocky, you’ll also need to budget time for the land preparation. Aboveground pools need to be installed on a level surface.

If you put too much baking soda in your pool, your alkalinity will rise. That means you’ll need to take steps to lower your alkalinity. You can either add more water (which will require more chemicals because they’ll be diluted), wait for the alkalinity to lower naturally, or use a chemical like muriatic acid to lower it.