Quote Originally Posted by BigTallGuy View Post
I haven't heard of adding salt to a non-SWCG pool, but the TDS would be up. So if and when TDS is tested, wouldn't you have to take the salt level reading into account, and subtract it from the TDS reading?
We had some discussions of adding salt to non SWCG pools because it makes the water feel softer and can be easier on un-goggled eyes. The TDS reading is one we rarely find significant. Just using bleach adds to your TDS, as bleach is made from a brine solution--that's the "inert ingredient" in bleach.

Here we mainly subscribe to chlorine systems, not bromine, baquacil or even bleach-and-metals (Nature2's copper and silver erosion system), just bleach. SWCG falls into that category.

As for what is best, well any PROPERLY designed and maintained system can give exemplary results: Clear, clean, safe pool water. So, whatever you run, Sand, DE, Cartridge, SWCG, Chlorinator, Heater, Heat Pump, Solar (and combinations of these) can call give GREAT results. You just have to maintain it correctly.

Carl