Salt Cell - is it worth it?

[PoolDoc]

We are putting in our first pool (in-ground, vinyl, 34' x 18', 3ft to 7ft depth) with an electric pool heater!

I assume you mean, an electric heat pump? Cause if you mean an electric resistance heater (like a water heater), EITHER you can afford the SWCG (salt system) with NO problem, OR you won't be able to afford to run that heater for even a month.

Even the heat pumps, will cost you $100 per month or more to operate.

Regarding the SWCG -- if you mean "is it worth it" in money saved, then the answer is "No!" It's cheaper to operate pure BBB method, once you consider the cost of the salt, the cost of the electricity, the cost of the new SWCG, and the cost of ongoing maintenance (cell replacement).

But, if you mean, "is it worth it" in convenience, most people who have them seem to think so.

[cleancloths]

I was going to say the same thing about electricity.

I run a "hybrid" pool. I have a heat pump, but hardly ever use it. I keep the solar cover on all the time except when swimming and have 80 SqFt of solar mats that provide about enough heat to cover heat loss during all but early May and and mid-September on.

I also run a "hybrid" chlorination scheme. I use some trichlor pucks, as as mentioned they tend to lower pH. I then use mostly bleach for the rest of the chlorine needs. It tends to raise pH. Couple the trichlor, bleach, and acid rain and I never have to use any other chemicals to maintain pH levels.

[waterbear]

Is a SWCG worth it. As far as convenience factor goes that is a resounding YES!!!!!!
I am basically lazy when it comes to caring for my own pool so a SWCG is a godsend as far as I am concerned. I would not have a pool without one! I have a heat pump but live in Florida where heat pumps are not very expensive to run since the pool stays farily warm on it's own. I mostlu sue the heat pump to head the spa when I use it.