No more leaves in the pool | Aiper Surfer S1 Review

What the Aiper Surfer S1 does

The Aiper Surfer S1 is a floating robotic skimmer that travels across the top layer of a pool, collecting leaves as it moves. Front paddles draw the leaves into a storage bin underneath the robot, while the movement of the water helps push the collected material towards the rear of the bin.

The bin has a 5-litre capacity and is removable, making it relatively simple to empty and replace. The robot is intended for both in-ground and above-ground pools, and is particularly suited to pools surrounded by trees that regularly drop leaves into the water.

Solar-assisted operation and controls

The Surfer S1 has a solar panel on its upper surface. Its battery is rated for up to 12 hours of operation on one charge, while the solar panel can continue charging the robot when it is left in the pool during daylight. It can also be charged through a DC charging port at the rear.

Wireless app support allows the robot to be monitored and controlled from a phone. The app can be used to steer it towards leaves that have not been collected. The robot connects using 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, and physical controls on the unit provide start, pause and power functions. RGB indicator lights show battery information when the app is not being used.

Navigation and physical design

The robot moves slowly around the pool rather than travelling at high speed. Its navigation system attempts to make grid-like passes across the pool to improve coverage. Ultrasonic sensors at the front help it detect the pool edges and reduce collisions.

Rubber grommets and wheels around the outside help protect the plastic shell when it contacts the sides of the pool. Wheels are also fitted at the front and rear to help prevent the robot from striking walls or becoming stuck.

Important limitations and safety considerations

The Surfer S1 has a specific purpose: collecting leaves from the surface of the water. It does not clean the rest of the pool, so it is not a replacement for equipment designed to remove dirt or debris from the pool floor and other areas. It is most relevant to owners who deal with frequent leaf fall, especially from large trees such as gum trees.

The front paddle area includes exposed plastic blades without a grate over them. Fingers can reach into this area, so the robot should not be used as a toy or operated around children while they are in the pool.

Price and suitability

The Aiper Surfer S1 was quoted in the review at $629. Its value depends heavily on the amount of leaf debris entering the pool. For a pool with few nearby trees, the robot’s specialised design may provide limited benefit. For a pool that continually collects leaves, its long operating time, solar-assisted charging and large storage bin are intended to reduce the need for repeated manual skimming and help limit debris reaching the pool’s pumps.