Like most things that cost a lot in maple it's another useful tool that makes life much easier. We check frequently with a hydrometer and some days have to adjust more than others. For whatever reason (maybe elevation?) we usually end up drawing off below 219 but I assume there are a variety of factors and it differs for everyone. Definitely want to check it and figure out how it works for you before assuming it's automatic all the time. Ours is a CDL but they all function pretty much the same. Shop around, maybe even find a deal on a used one.