I can't help you either but I CAN say that like Poconos, we only view puck-chlorinators as "bad" when they are used incorrectly. I personally think for me they would a waste of money, because on the rare occasions I need tri-chlor pucks (and they do occur) I simply use $10 adjustable floating dispensers. However, if you, like Poconos, prefer them, I would simply follow Al's advice and make sure you do NOT use it when your CYA levels are as high as you want, or your pH levels are as low as you dare go.

For new concrete/tile/plaster pools, Tri-chlor pucks are the way to go--they fight the high pH gen'ed by the curing walls, and add needed CYA gradually, while maintaining a fairly constant FC level.

In fact, generally when CYA is too low, pucks or Di-Chlor powder are an excellent choice for one-stop treatment.

ALL of this, of course, is based on the assumption that you are testing your water regularly and carefully, including CYA levels.

OTOH, despite many people's assertions that I have something against salt-water generators, nothing could be further from the truth. I think they are neat, fantastic gadgets, but I have yet to be able to justify the cost of one for my pool--but I am sorely tempted!