Regarding asking your PB about SWG or the silly Ozone/Mineral issue...... Pool Builders *Build* pools! They usually know squat about chemistry and upkeep. They leave pool jobs with sparkling new walls and water and don't see the potential problems that develop down the road.
Go with the SWG. You'll thank us later.
Maddie
I definitely appreciate the comments about SWG.
I gave it a lot of thought both researching and talking to friends that have had SWG in the past or that currently use SWG, as well as friends that we know in the pool maintenance business both here in Houston and other S. Texas areas. It has pretty much come down to the point that had we not had considerable moss rock water features, then we'd be 100% in on SWG. When I asked both of my friends in the pool maintenance business they echoed the same concerns that two of the PBs raised with SWG and the moss rock. Also, our PB said he would put what ever system we want, and they have installed several SWG for their clients, they just recommended against it given the particular rock water features we would have.
I'll agree that issues with SWG and rock/stone are likely due to either poor maintenance and chemistry regimen, or poor stone quality to begin with, but in talking to about a dozen or so neighbors and friends with pools, some with SWG, and some who had experienced both SWG and traditional chlorine, I just wasn't convinced to overlook the possibilities of issues with the moss rock. Also, my previous pool was chlorine and didn't really struggle or feel it was overwhelming to keep a clean pool. Maybe somewhere down the road we'll consider the switch, but I think for now, we are fine foregoing the SWG.
As for the mineral and ozone systems, they were included at no cost. I don't intend to use the mineral cartridges and I won't rely on claims of being able to reduce chemical levels with the ozone. I'm planning to run normal chemical levels, and if the ozone helps then great, but if it doesn't then oh well I'll just run it until it dies, with no plan to replace it at that time.
I appreciate all the suggestions!