Basically your SWCG becomes your chlorine source. You still need to test regularly and adjust the swcg's output accordingly. You'll also need to pay careful attention to pH since SWCG will make it rise as the device operates. Of course you'll need to maintain your salt and cyanuric acid (cya) level at the manufacturers recommended value. You can do that with aquacheck salt test strips or a Taylor k-1766 kit for the salt. I check my salt only every few weeks. Salt doesn't get used up, you'll only lose it due to splashout or leaks. I have splashy teenagers so I have to add salt a few times a year. Many people don't.
Just keep in mind that going SWCG doesn't mean you can forget about your pool. You still have to monitor your other levels and adjust accordingly. SWCG probably won't be saving you much money if any, but it means sanitizer becomes much less of a chore to stay on top of. I guess that makes it sound like I don't like swcg, but I love mine. If I go out of town for a week or two it hasn't been a problem for me. I go out and test my clear pool and make adjustments when I get home.
Staying on top of that pH for me is the greatest concern. High pH can lead to scaling which is merely unsightly in the pool but it can become a big problem in your plumbing and especially your heater (if you have one).
As far as opening your pool goes, I would open normally. Get everything right before you add the new SWCG - then do the switch. SWCG is good for maintaining your chlorine levels and preventing the need to shock, but if you were to need to shock you would still do it with liquid chlorine or bleach (sodium hypochlorite) same as always.
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