Quote Originally Posted by lauraleellbp View Post
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So I guess this boils back down to whether or not I want to spring for a SWCG. I was all about the SWCG till I realized that the warranties have gone down so much and the cells have to be replaced so often....
I've been through 10 complete seasons with our SWCG. So far I've had to replace the cell one time (though I suspect our current cell may need to be replace later this season or next season). I did a quick calculation and figured we spend about $150 a year using the SWCG, that includes the initial cost of the system as well the cost of one replacement cell.

Used appropriately (ie - used to maintain CL levels only), over time I'm not finding using a SWCG that much more expensive than traditional methods, but it offers the advantage of convenience. Also, it makes it easier to control CYA and CL levels separately.

I've also found that by adding borates (about 60ppm) and keeping my TA about 70-80, I no longer have to add muratic acid to keep pH down (SWCG operation can cause the pH to rise). It's very rare that I have to adjust pH.

Personally I really like having the SWCG and would go with the same system again if I had it to do over again.