Doug,

Welcome! That's what I like, a guy who actually admits he's LOST!!!

Most pool stores run many more tests than the ones you posted:
Free chlorine
Total chlorine
Combined chlorine
pH
Alk
Calc hardness
TDS (total dissolved solids)
CYA
copper
iron
saturation index

There's more, I just can't remember this late. Not quite sure why they only ran the few tests you noted. If they can't test for them, find another store. Or, better yet, purchase a drops based kit. Most pool stores carry a Taylors kit (~$70-80) or you can order one of Bens. Either way, testing your own pool water is the way to go.

Are you still thinking of using the pucks? I used pucks for only 1 year, and my CYA >100ppm. Mainly because my inline Hayward chlorinator knob malfunctioned. Seems to be a problem with their product line. Pucks also drive the pH down as they are acidic. The common wisdom is that the CYA level determines the chlorine range required for proper sanitation. So do get that tested soon. Most of the folks here use bleach for chlorination, or SWG/SWC seem to be on the rise also.

Can't help you with the hardness question. That's important if you have plaster/cement pools or use a heater. Down here in Carolina water temps are in the 70's. No need for heater, or at least that's what spouse keeps saying.

Keep reading the posts and you'll pick things up. I'm sure others will chime in with guidance and suggestions, too.

CaryB