I've yet to have my system a full season so my 'down side' is limited. So far, its been all up side similar to:

• Less maintenance. Chlorine added automaticaly. No need to buy chlorine, physically carry it home, and add it regularly (possibly daily).
• Lower possibility of developing algae, though this may be more related to the continual addition of concentrated chlorine rather than the SWG, per se.
• Less burning of eyes. Salt in water is closer to salinity of human tears.
• Water feels silkier.


My cons are limited as well:

-The up front cost was well within my comfort zone.
-I add a little more acid than I use to but thats a minor negative.
-I have no metal ladders, rails or heat exchangers in my pool.
-I hose off my pool deck and patio weekly during the swim season (did so before installing the SWCG) so I see no build up.


basically, So far, so good.