Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner Review
One area of the smart home where we are seeing more smart devices come to life is outside the house and near your pool. Many can't wait to be the first to dive into a clean and clear pool, and the new smart devices we are being exposed to will ensure you have that cleaner, clearer swimming experience this season. We recently tested a cordless robotic pool cleaner, a smart pool device that works just like a robot vacuum but for your pool.
These new app-controlled or smart cordless robotic pool cleaners are high-tech devices designed to automate the cleaning of swimming pools with enhanced convenience and efficiency. They operate without cords, providing unrestricted movement around the pool, and are equipped with smart technology that allows users to control and customize cleaning operations via a smartphone app. The app allows you to schedule cleanings, monitor cleaning progress, and adjust settings remotely, making pool maintenance more manageable and time-efficient Some apps often include additional functionalities such as tracking the device's location, receiving maintenance reminders, and accessing customer support. This year, we got our hands on Aiper's S1 Scuba Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner and tested it in a pool. Check out what we learned from testing this smart pool device to see if it makes sense for your pool.
What is the Aiper S1 Scuba Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner?
Dive into a cleaner, clearer swimming experience with the Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner, your ultimate pool maintenance companion. Designed for efficiency and ease, the Scuba S1 offers an impeccable cleaning solution for in-ground pools up to 1600 sq. ft., completing its task in just 2.5 hours.
Equipped with robust caterpillar treads, the Scuba S1 navigates across all pool surfaces with enhanced traction, effortlessly overcoming obstacles. This advanced cleaner doesn't just move; it cleans with a powerful suction capability, ensuring every inch of your pool is spotless from edge to edge.
The Aiper Scuba S1 is as versatile as it is powerful. With four customizable cleaning modes, you can select from auto, pool floor, pool wall, and an innovative eco mode. In Auto Mode, it cleans both floors and walls, intelligently adjusting its path based on battery life and docking automatically. The Pool Floor Mode targets only the floor in an S-shaped pattern, while Pool Wall Mode cleans walls using an N-shaped route; both modes automatically dock when the battery is low. Eco Mode conserves energy by running on a full charge for 45 minutes every 48 hours over a week, efficiently maintaining the pool floor. The Eco Mode is particularly useful for keeping your pool swim-ready at all times. These settings offer tailored cleaning solutions, enhancing both performance and convenience.
The Scuba S1's superior cleaning performance centers on the patented WavePath Navigation Technology 2.0. This intelligent system enhances the cleaner's path by following the pool's natural flow, maximizing coverage, and ensuring no spot is missed.
The Scuba S1 is compatible with all pool types—whether rectangular, round, kidney, or random-shaped- and all materials, including vinyl, concrete, mosaic tile, and fiberglass. This makes it a universal solution suitable for virtually any residential pool up to 150 meters (1600 square feet) in size.
The Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner provides hassle-free, comprehensive cleaning that keeps your pool inviting and pristine. It cleans your pool's walls, floor, and even the water lines. With its advanced features and customizable options, the Scuba S1 transforms pool maintenance, making pool care effortless and more effective than ever.
How to set up your Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
Besides the hard-to-read owner's manual, setting up your Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner is straightforward. Users can follow these steps to ensure your S1 robotic pool cleaner is ready to keep your pool sparkling clean:
Step 1: Unboxing and Inspection
- Unbox the Scuba S1 Cleaner by carefully removing the robot and all accompanying accessories from the packaging.
- Inspect the components for visible damage or missing parts. Your package should include the pool cleaner, charging cable, and user manual.
Step 2: Charging the Cleaner
- Charge the S1 before using it for the first time. The robot pool cleaner must be fully charged before being used for the first time. Connect the charging cable to the cleaner and plug it into a suitable power outlet. Charging is complete when the indicator light turns green. Note the initial charge will take at least 180 minutes, so plan accordingly.
Step 3: Understanding the Controls and Modes
- Thoroughly read the user manual to familiarize yourself with the cleaner's controls and capabilities. While the manual might be less informative, it provides essential operating instructions and safety information. Also, the Scuba S1 comes with four operating modes:
Step 4: Preparing the Pool
- Before deploying your pool cleaner, manually remove any large pool debris to prevent clogging. Ensure your pool's chemical balance is within the recommended levels to maintain optimal cleaner performance and longevity.
Step 5: First Use
- Turn the S1 on to activate the cleaner using the power button and select the mode. Gently place the Aiper Scuba S1 into the pool, allowing it to sink to the bottom. Once fully submerged and the wheels are in contact with the pool floor, the S1 will start cleaning your pool.
Step 6: Regular Maintenance
- Clean the Filter: After each cleaning cycle, remove and clean the filter according to the instructions to ensure optimal cleaning efficiency.
- When the battery level is low, the device will automatically dock near the side of the pool and stop cleaning. The supplied hook would be best to pull the S1 out of the water. Note that it can easily be attached to a pole.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store the cleaner in a shaded, dry place away from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions to prevent wear and tear.
Step 7: Monitoring and Troubleshooting
- Regular Checks: Regularly inspect the cleaner for any signs of wear or damage, especially after cleaning cycles.
- Consult Support: If you encounter any operational issues or notice a decline in performance, consult the troubleshooting section of the user manual or contact Aiper customer support for assistance.
By following these steps, you can maximize the effectiveness of your Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner and enjoy a clean pool with minimal effort. Remember, routine maintenance and proper storage are key to the longevity and performance of your pool-cleaning robot.
How much does the Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner cost?
The Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner has an MSRP of $699.99 but is currently on sale for $599.99 on the company website. It can also be purchased on Amazon, Walmart, Wellbots, and other pool-related retailers. And for those of you who are shopping on Amazon, Aiper is running a sale from now to 5/10. Shoppers can get $120 off the Scuba S1 using SPR120 (from $699.99 to $579.99) and save $41 on a Scuba S1 + H2 bundle with code D6H2X7EL to receive 5% off the Scuba S1 + H2 bundle on Amazon.com.
Performance - How well did the Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner perform with our testing?
In our testing of the Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner, we found several admirable features and a few areas that could be improved. The Scuba S1 impressed us with its adaptive cleaning technology, effectively navigating and cleaning an unusually shaped pool and even managing obstacles like a dog ramp. Its ability to climb and clean the walls was a standout feature, and the suction power was robust, picking up everything from leaves to fine granular particles from roofing tiles that had blown into the pool.
However, the product was not without its drawbacks. The manual provided with the Scuba S1 was less informative than we expected, lacking the clear, easy-to-follow instructions seen with other smart devices. Additionally, the absence of wireless connectivity was a significant limitation. The cleaner operates independently without Wi-Fi, preventing remote monitoring of the cleaner's status, remote firmware updates, or the convenience of app integration.
Another inconvenience was the charging process. Each time the cleaner needed recharging, it had to be manually removed from the pool, which proved cumbersome. We believe a design improvement allowing the Scuba S1 to autonomously connect to a charging station at the pool's edge would greatly enhance user convenience. Furthermore, integrating solar power to support the cleaning cycles could provide an eco-friendly power solution and reduce dependency on manual charging.
Despite these challenges, the Scuba S1 performed excellently once the setup was complete. It was also a source of entertainment for our dog, Scruffy, who enjoyed watching the cleaner at work. Considering the advanced cleaning capabilities of the Scuba S1, traditional pool cleaning services, or as some of us call "the pool guy," might feel the pressure from such innovative robotic cleaners, especially if the suggested improvements are implemented in future models.
User Review Overview - A look at what users are saying about the Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
To help you decide whether to purchase the Aiper S1, we looked at what users who purchased the product have to say about this pool-cleaning robot. Here is an overview of what we found from buyers of the S1:
The Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner has received positive reviews for its performance, ease of use, and innovative features. Users appreciate its effective cleaning capabilities on various pool surfaces and its ability to handle large debris and finer particulates like sand easily. The setup is straightforward, and its cordless design simplifies deploying and retrieving the unit. The cleaner's ability to autonomously navigate complex pool shapes and obstacles and its quiet operation make it a favored choice among pool owners.
However, several areas need improvement. The lack of comprehensive instructions and Wi-Fi connectivity limits the user experience, preventing remote monitoring and control. Some users found the charging process cumbersome and noted difficulties maintaining the filter basket, especially when dealing with finer materials that tend to clog. Additionally, mechanical issues, such as problems with floating and navigation in pools with slopes or unique shapes, highlighted, along with concerns about the unit's durability.
Summary
In summary, the Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner is an innovative solution for pool maintenance, offering significant advantages in terms of convenience and cleaning effectiveness. While it could benefit from enhanced connectivity features and more accessible maintenance procedures, its performance and ease of use make it a compelling choice for those looking to invest in a modern pool cleaning solution. As technology advances, potential updates could address these issues, making the Scuba S1 an even more attractive option for pool owners.
Pros
- Cordless Design
- Versatile Cleaning Modes
- Powerful Suction
- Advanced Navigation
- Durable Build
Cons
- Lacks Wi-Fi Connectivity
- Manual Charging Required
- Inadequate Manual:
- Limited Remote Monitoring
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