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Hydrofloors, The Hidden Pool Feature Homeowners Love

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Hydrofloors are the Hidden Pool Feature Homeowners Love

One of the coolest inground pool features these days that has taken social media by storm are Hydrofloors. These incredible movable pool floor systems enable you to achieve the ultimate hidden pool. Hydrofloors were first introduced to the pool industry back in 2007. Since then they have slowly been gaining traction with builders and homeowners alike.

Movable pool floors have been around for decades. If you’ve ever seen the pool from ‘It’s Wonderful Life’, you’d recall a memorable scene involving a dance floor opening up to a swimming pool. Technology has certainly come a long way since George Bailey took the plunge. These movable floors vertically rise to fill in the pool area with usable space within minutes.

What are Hydrofloors? Twinscape Group is the visionary behind these incredible movable pool floor systems.
Twinscape Group is the visionary behind these incredible movable pool floor systems.

What Are Hydrofloors?

Twinscape Group is the pioneer behind this revolutionary technology that is enabling homeowners to reenvision their pool area as a dual-purpose space. It is now possible to go from an indoor gym to an indoor pool in an instant using Hydrofloors. The movable swimming pool floors can be lowered to varying depths. It can also be elevated to ground level to be utilized as a flat-top surface.

The James Bondesque pool feature isn’t just becoming more popular with luxury homeowners. Hydrofloors are also becoming a big hit with aquatic centers. The ability to raise and lower the pool floor makes it possible to hold infant swim classes at 10 am, an adult lap swim at noon, and a swim meet competition at 3pm all in the same pool.

Transforming the pool to different depths happens all by pressing a single button. Hydrofloors also have applications for creating better therapy pools. Slip-resistant, movable pool floor systems can be easily adjusted. This allows swimmers of any physical condition to enter and exit the pool with greater ease. Hydrofloors eliminate the need for slings, hoists, and access ramps.

Movable Pool Floors Are Attracting More Pool Builders

Builders like Paolo Benedetti of Aquatic Technology out of Morgan Hill, CA, have become a big fan of Hydrofloors. They enjoy the ability to do multiple depth floor systems that can accommodate popular finishes (i.e., tile, glass-mosaic, and even marble). That is accompanied by Hydrofloors’ enormous load capacity. Hydrofloors surpass a home’s conventional floor strength rating of 55 lb/ft when lifted.

Benedetti recently shared one of the most recent projects he completed. This incredible over-the-top luxury inground pool exemplifies what can be achieved in the backyard with Hydrofloor movable pool floor systems.

What is also remarkable is that a Hydrofloor pool is a 100% safe pool cover that can convert into a usable patio space within minutes. This provides the versatility to create unique pool environments that are multi-use spaces. That is perhaps the most appealing aspect for pool builders.

How do Hydrofloors work? Multipurpose space planning has gotten a whole lot easier with movable pool floors.
Multipurpose space planning has gotten a whole lot easier with movable pool floors. Photo Credit: Clear Water Revival

How Do Hydrofloors Work?

A series of cables and a pulley system with a water-based hydraulic cylinder comprise much of the technology behind Hydrofloors. Locking pins that automatically slide in the pool shell walls help achieve an incredibly high load capacity (250 kg/m2). Buoyancy packs are installed underneath the structure, which floats the pool floor to the surface. The floor is pulled down with a cable and pulley system with water-based hydraulic cylinder to the desired depth. Water passes slowly enough so that the water percolates above the floor to quickly drain away from a small gap around the perimeter.

Separating The Fantasy of Movable Pool Floors From Reality

There have been plenty of moving pool floor system videos being shared on social media lately. Some of these time-lapse videos are incredibly entertaining to watch. Quite a few of them show pool floors that disappear within seconds. Realistically you’re looking at around 8-10 minutes for a complete transformation from patio to pool.

Let’s also set realistic expectations about market penetration on these systems. While the videos are becoming popular on social media, and homeowners might be wondering if they can have one of their own; this is still a pool feature reserved for the elite. The movable pool floor system alone can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars; which can be pricey – even in terms of luxury inground pools.

How Much Does a Hydrofloor Pool Cost?

Each square foot of the movable floor system can cost anywhere from $300 to $550. This makes movable pool floors a unique but very expensive pool feature. Construction costs considered, a hidden pool with a Hydrofloor can cost millions, according to Alan Crownover of Paradise Pools and Garden. Crownover is a San Francisco-area pool builder, who’s designed at least one Hydrofloor pool so far. He said the starting price for similar projects would run someone about $2 million.

Crownover is working on another exciting Hydrofloor project. This one involves a private yacht that wants to land a helicopter on the roof. He is planning a dual-purpose landing pad/pool. The owner will be able to convert into a swimming pool and back again whenever guests drop in. Truly a unique project that we can’t wait to see get off the ground (no pun intended).

Luxury Pool Feature With a High Price Tag

The high cost associated with this particular pool feature puts it out of reach for all but the most affluent homeowners. Real estate agents have reported an uptick of homes with hidden pools hitting the market in recent years. However, this doesn’t indicate they’ve become more affordable yet. Most regular inground pools typically start at around $50,000. The starting price for a Hydrofloor is $230,000. This makes this a unique pool feature that you’ll still find in only a finite amount of residential homes.

A movable pool floor system such as this is a luxury pool feature that can exceed several million dollars.
A movable pool floor system such as this is a luxury pool feature that can exceed several million dollars.

Twinscape Group is definitely setting the bar in movable pool floors when it comes to finding exciting and innovative new ways to conceal a swimming pool. They are also pushing the envelope with movable benches, pool covers, and submersible walls and bridges.

Inexpensive Hidden Pool Projects

Want a hidden pool but can’t afford a Hydrofloor system? You might want to try the DIY approach. You can try and build your own. Gil Klar, an Israeli electrical engineer, spent three months and around $10,000 building his own hidden pool. One that is quite similar to the sliding dance floor shown in “It’s a Wonderful Life”.

Photo Credits: Twinscape Group

4.9/5 - (12 votes)

Editor in Chief of Pool Magazine - Joe Trusty is also CEO of PoolMarketing.com, the leading digital agency for the pool industry. An internet entrepreneur, software developer, author, and marketing professional with a long history in the pool industry. Joe oversees the writing and creative staff at Pool Magazine. To contact Joe Trusty email [email protected] or call (916) 467-9118 during normal business hours. For submissions, please send your message to [email protected]

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Products

BackSaver2000 Revolutionizes Pool Water Collection and Testing

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backsaver2000-safer-pool-water-testing-collection

A new innovation in pool maintenance is changing how technicians collect water samples for testing. The BackSaver2000, a newly developed water collection device, is designed to improve both sampling accuracy and workplace safety for pool professionals.

Traditionally, pool technicians collect water samples by kneeling or bending over the pool edge with a cup, a method that can lead to repeated strain on the back and knees. The BackSaver2000 eliminates this issue by allowing technicians to collect water easily while standing, significantly reducing the physical stress associated with the outdated conventional method.

Beyond ergonomics, the BackSaver2000 was scientifically tested to ensure the integrity of water samples. Results show that the device collects equal to or less surface water contamination compared to traditional collection methods, helping ensure more reliable water quality testing.

Designed specifically for the demands of the pool service industry, the BackSaver2000 combines a telescoping handle with a collapsible collection cup to make sampling faster, safer, and more efficient. By reducing repetitive strain injuries, companies can also benefit from fewer work-related injuries and potentially lower workers’ compensation claims.

The BackSaver2000 is poised to become an essential tool for pool technicians, offering a smarter and healthier way to collect water samples while maintaining testing accuracy.

For more information about the BackSaver2000, contact your local distributor or visit the product website: backsaver2000.com.

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Equipment Supplies

Beatbot Expands Its Lineup With iSkim and iSkim Ultra Robotic Pool Skimmers

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Beatbot has been gaining serious traction in the robotic pool cleaner space with its AquaSense and Sora lines, establishing itself as a legitimate contender in a category long dominated by legacy brands. Now, the company is making a calculated move into robotic pool skimmers with the launch of the iSkim and iSkim Ultra, bringing a layered approach to the category and offering two distinct tiers that target very different types of pool owners.

Why Robotic Skimmers Are Gaining Momentum

Surface debris has always been one of the most persistent pain points in pool maintenance. Leaves, pollen, bugs, grass clippings, and fine dust collect on the surface long before they ever make it to the floor. Once they sink, they’re harder to remove, placing more strain on filtration systems and robotic cleaners.

Robotic skimmers aim to solve that problem at the source—continuously patrolling the waterline and removing debris before it becomes a bigger issue. Solar-powered designs have made this category even more appealing, allowing for extended runtimes with minimal user intervention.

That’s the opportunity Beatbot is leaning into.

Beatbot iSkim: Built for Continuous Surface Cleaning

The iSkim is positioned as the more accessible entry point into Beatbot’s skimmer lineup, but it still brings a solid feature set designed for real-world pool conditions.

At its core is a large 9-liter debris basket, giving it the capacity to handle significant surface load without constant emptying. That matters in environments where leaves and organic debris are a daily occurrence. The unit is designed for continuous operation, powered by a solar panel and backed by a 10,000mAh battery, with manufacturer claims of up to 28 hours of runtime without sunlight.

From a mechanical standpoint, the iSkim uses a three-motor system, including dual motor propulsion. That means it’s actively driving itself across the pool surface using two independent propulsion motors, allowing it to steer and reposition rather than simply drifting. Navigation is handled through a combination of basic sensors and random movement with smart rerouting.

It also includes features that are quickly becoming standard in the category: app integration, scheduled cleaning, smart automatic parking, one-click app parking, and an anti-spill basket design with one-click debris release.

Where the iSkim keeps things simple is in its cleaning approach. It focuses on broad surface coverage rather than precision navigation, making it a strong fit for homeowners who want a set-it-and-forget-it solution that runs long and handles the bulk of surface debris without complication.

Beatbot iSkim Cordless Robotic Pool Skimmer with 9L Filter Basket, 24/7 Cleaning Solar Powered, 10000mAh Battery, 28-Hour Runtime, Auto Return, Smart Obstacle Avoidance, APP Control -Navy Blue
  • Less Emptying, More Pool Time. Extra-large 9L pool skimmer filter basket, larger than standard skimmers with a 29×270mm wide inlet that captures all debris, from fine particles to large debris, for extended and uninterrupted cleaning with less maintenance.
  • Engineered for Longer Cleaning Cycles. The 24W solar panel keeps the 10,000mAh battery charged, providing up to 28 hours of runtime even in no-light conditions, so your pool stays clean longer with fewer interruption, even on cloudy days.
  • Full Surface Coverage: with 2 guided wheels, iSkim skimmer reaches walls and tight corrners for complete coverage, keeping your pool consistently clean with minimal effort. No missed spots on your pool surface.
  • Saltwater-Safe & 3-Year Protection: Fully saltwater-safe (NaCl < 5000 ppm) and corrosion-resistant. Backed by 3-year protection, 30-day free returns, and 365-day availability, giving you long-term reliability and peace of mind for your premium pool investment.
  • Smart Water-Surface parking: automatically returns and holds at the surface for 10 minutes after each cycle, plus one-tap app recall to the pool edge, making removal quick and easy. No heavy lifting or retrieval hassle.

Beatbot iSkim Ultra: A Step Into Smart Surface Care

The iSkim Ultra takes a very different approach. While it shares the same 9-liter basket and 10,000mAh battery platform, everything else about the unit pushes it into a higher tier.

This model is built around a seven-motor system and a 20-sensor array, dramatically increasing its ability to navigate, detect obstacles, and clean with intention rather than randomness. Instead of relying on passive coverage, the iSkim Ultra uses an S-path cleaning pattern, allowing it to systematically cover the pool surface.

One of the biggest hardware upgrades is the addition of dual-side brushes and an expanded wheel system, which improve its ability to reach edges and corners—areas where surface debris tends to accumulate but where many skimmers struggle.

The Ultra also introduces environmental awareness features, including water temperature detection, along with voice broadcast capabilities for system status updates. These additions reinforce its positioning as a connected, smart device rather than just a cleaning tool.

But the standout feature—and the one that truly separates it from the base model—is the integrated water clarification system. The iSkim Ultra can actively contribute to water quality by dispensing clarifying agents, helping improve water appearance while it performs surface cleaning. That moves it beyond simple debris removal and into a more holistic surface-care role.

Charging is also upgraded, with the Ultra supporting magnetic wireless charging in addition to solar and adapter-based charging.

Beatbot iSkim Ultra Solar-Powered Auto Pool Skimmer 24/7 Cleaning, Built-in Water Clarification, Smart App & Voice Control, Dual Charging, Precision Edge & Corner Cleanup, Navy Blue
  • 【Unmatched 2-Year Full-Unit Coverage: Rest easy with an industry-leading protection plan that replaces the entire unit rather than requiring repairs—drastically reducing downtime so your pool stays consistently clean.
  • 【Meet the iSkim Ultra – The First Intelligent Robotic Pool Skimmer Engineered for Superior Cleaning & Control】: This groundbreaking skimmer uses advanced smart-cleaning tech for pristine water via full surface coverage and powerful debris removal. Control navigation, speed, and schedules from your phone with real-time voice alerts.
  • 【Intuitive App Control with Real-Time Voice Alerts】: Seamless app integration lets you adjust cleaning paths, boost speed, set schedules, and monitor water temp or progress remotely. One-tap auto-return simplifies docking, and OTA updates ensure peak performance—all with clear voice notifications.
  • 【Precision Navigation & Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance】:Powered by a 120 MHz MCU, 20 precision sensors, and pioneering tri-ultrasonic technology, it delivers accurate scanning, optimized pathfinding, and exceptional stability in any pool environment.
  • 【Next-Level Debris Collection & Full-Coverage Cleaning】:Innovative rotating dual-side brushes sweep debris inward to eliminate scatter, ensuring thorough edge and corner pickup. An extra-large front roller brush handles large debris while expanding coverage for efficient one-pass cleaning.

Where Beatbot Fits in the Market

The robotic skimmer category is no longer niche. Brands like Aiper, WYBOT, Dolphin, and Betta have already proven there’s demand for automated surface cleaning, especially in markets where debris load is high and homeowners want to reduce manual maintenance.

Beatbot’s entry stands out because it doesn’t just compete on price or basic functionality. Instead, it introduces a clearer segmentation within its own lineup.

The iSkim targets homeowners who want reliable, continuous surface cleaning with long runtime and minimal complexity. The iSkim Ultra targets a different buyer—someone looking for smarter navigation, better edge performance, and additional water care features.

That distinction matters, because one of the biggest challenges in this category has been bridging the gap between simple floating skimmers and truly intelligent systems.

The Bigger Picture for Pool Automation

What Beatbot is doing here mirrors a broader trend across the pool industry: moving toward specialized, connected devices that each handle a specific part of pool care.

Instead of relying on a single piece of equipment to do everything, homeowners are increasingly building out systems—one robot for floors and walls, another for surface cleaning, and potentially additional tools for water monitoring and treatment.

With the addition of iSkim and iSkim Ultra, Beatbot is positioning itself to be part of that ecosystem conversation, not just as a cleaner manufacturer but as a broader automation player.

Final Thoughts

The launch of iSkim and iSkim Ultra signals that Beatbot is serious about expanding beyond traditional robotic cleaners and into a more complete pool-care lineup.

The iSkim delivers what many pool owners are looking for: long runtime, large capacity, and consistent surface cleaning without added complexity. The iSkim Ultra, on the other hand, pushes the category forward with smarter navigation, improved edge performance, and integrated water clarification.

Together, they give Beatbot a foothold in one of the most active segments in pool automation—and set the stage for even more competition in the robotic skimmer space moving forward.

4.9/5 - (48 votes)

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Equipment Supplies

Under The Hood: A Close Look at Aiper Scuba V3, The World’s #1 Pool Cleaner

Thinking about the Aiper Scuba V3? Get full specs, features, pros & cons, and see how it compares to top robotic pool cleaners.

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Under The Hood: A Close Look at Aiper Scuba V3, The World’s #1 Pool Cleaner

If you’ve been digging around for Scuba V3, Scuba V3 reviews, or trying to make sense of the Aiper Scuba V3 specs and features, you’re not alone. This thing has quickly become one of the most talked-about robotic pool cleaners in the game—and not just because of marketing hype.

The Scuba V3 is part of a new wave of cleaners that are trying to move beyond random navigation and brute-force cleaning. This one’s built around AI vision, adaptive routing, and cordless operation, putting it firmly in the premium cordless category.

Let’s break it down properly—what it does, how it performs, and how it stacks up against other cleaners in its class.

What Is the Aiper Scuba V3?

What Is the Scuba V3?

The Scuba V3 by Aiper is a cordless robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools, capable of cleaning the floor, walls, and waterline while using onboard AI to improve efficiency.

Aiper calls it the “World’s No. 1” smart robotic pool cleaner, a claim tied to global sales volume—but what makes the Scuba V3 relevant isn’t just how many units they’ve moved. It’s that the product actually delivers in the areas that matter.

Instead of blindly covering the pool, it uses an AI camera-based system to detect debris and adjust its cleaning path in real time, actively routing toward problem areas rather than relying on random movement. In other words, it makes smarter decisions about how to best clean your swimming pool as it runs.

Scuba V3 Specs & Features That Matter

This is where the V3 separates itself from most of the competition.

Cognitive AI Navigation (Navium™ + VisionPath™)

Cognitive AI Navigation (Navium™ + VisionPath™)

At the core of the Scuba V3 is its AI-driven navigation system.

• Detects debris in real time
• Avoids obstacles and adjusts routes dynamically
• Reduces overlap and missed areas

It’s not just mapping—it’s reacting mid-clean.

AI Patrol Cleaning & Smart Optimization

AI Patrol Cleaning & Smart Optimization

The system continuously adapts to pool conditions.

• Learns pool layout over time
• Adjusts to debris levels
• Optimizes cleaning patterns

It’s not fully autonomous yet—but it’s clearly heading that direction.

Dual LED Vision System

Dual LED Vision System

A subtle but important upgrade.

• Improves visibility for onboard AI
• Enables better low-light performance
• Supports nighttime cleaning cycles

Most cleaners in this class don’t offer this.

JetAssist™ Waterline Cleaning

JetAssist™ Waterline Cleaning

Waterline cleaning is where a lot of robots fall apart. This one holds its position.

• Maintains consistent contact at the tile line
• Reduces slipping during scrubbing
• Improves perimeter cleaning

Scuba V3 Dual Brushes + High Suction Power

Dual Brushes + High Suction Power

This is where performance comes together.

• Dual active brushes loosen debris
• Strong suction pulls it in
• Handles both large debris and fine particles

MicroMesh™ Multi-Layer Filtration - Aiper Scuba V3

MicroMesh™ Multi-Layer Filtration

Built to capture everything from leaves to silt.

• Outer basket handles larger debris
• Inner mesh captures fine particles
• Delivers excellent water clarity

Trade-off: takes a little more effort to clean.

The Scuba V3 Features Featherlight Design & Easy Retrieval

Featherlight Design & Easy Retrieval

• Around 18 lbs
• Easier to lift than most competitors
• Waterline parking simplifies removal

Wireless Charging Dock for the Aiper Scuba V3

Wireless Charging Dock

• No cables to manage
• Clean, simple charging setup
• Faster turnaround between cycles

Scuba V3 Specs

• Runtime: Up to 180 minutes
• Charging Time: ~4–5 hours
• Coverage: Up to ~1,600 sq ft
• Weight: ~18 lbs
• Cleaning: Floor, walls, waterline
• Suction: ~4800 GPH
• Filtration: Dual-layer MicroMesh™
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi + Bluetooth

Within the sub-$1,000 cordless cleaner category, that runtime is one of its stronger advantages—especially for a unit handling full pool coverage.

Aiper Scuba V3 Reviews: Our Analysis

Scuba V3 Reviews: Our Analysis

Cleaning Power

• Handles leaves, dirt, and fine debris effectively
• Strong suction paired with smart routing
• Delivers consistent results in a single cycle

Navigation & Coverage

• Targets debris zones
• Revisits missed areas
• Reduces unnecessary movement

It cleans with intent, not randomness.

Battery Life

At around 170–190 minutes per cycle, the Scuba V3 delivers strong runtime for a full-coverage cordless cleaner.

Compared to other units in the sub-$1,000 range, that’s a meaningful advantage—especially when factoring in wall and waterline cleaning.

Ease of Use

• Lightweight
• Cordless
• Simple drop-in operation

One of the easiest cleaners to use day-to-day.

Maintenance

• Excellent filtration performance
• Fine mesh requires a bit more effort to rinse out

How the Aiper Scuba V3 Stacks Up Against the Competition

How the Scuba V3 Stacks Up Against the Competition

Here’s how it compares against similar cordless cleaners.

ModelNavigationRuntimeCleaning CoverageFiltrationWeightSmart FeaturesStandout Feature
Aiper Scuba V3AI Vision + Adaptive Routing~180 minFloor, Walls, WaterlineDual-layer fine + coarse~18 lbsApp controlAI-powered debris detection
WYBOT C2Smart Path (Gyro-based)~150–180 minFloor, WallsDual-layer~20+ lbsApp controlStrong wall climbing
Beatbot Sora 70AI Path Planning + Smart Sensors~150–180 minFloor, Walls, WaterlineLarge-capacity multi-stage~20 lbsApp + automationHigh debris capacity + strong all-surface cleaning
iGarden K ProSmart Navigation~120–150 minFloor, WallsStandard filtration~20+ lbsTouch/app featuresBudget-friendly smart cleaner

Where the Scuba V3 Wins

• Advanced AI-driven navigation
• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Strong all-around cleaning performance
• One of the better runtime profiles in its class
• True cordless convenience

Where the Scuba V3 Falls Short

There’s a lot to appreciate about this cleaner, though if we were to identify a few areas for improvement, the following stand out:

• No surface skimming — floating debris like pollen, leaves, and bugs still need to be handled separately or by a different product
• Debris basket release button on the nose can be triggered on hard impacts with walls or corners
• Larger or complex pools may require multiple cleaning cycles
• Navigation can struggle around benches, tanning ledges, and irregular pool shapes
• Price sits at the higher end of the category, which raises expectations for some buyers

Who the Scuba V3 Is Really For

Best fit for:

• Medium-sized in-ground pools
• Buyers who want cordless simplicity
• Users who value smarter navigation
• Service pros looking for a lighter, more efficient unit

Not ideal for:

• Very large or highly complex pools
• Buyers focused strictly on budget
• Anyone expecting surface cleaning

Final Verdict: Is the Aiper Scuba V3 Worth It?

The Scuba V3 is one of the most forward-thinking robotic pool cleaners available today.

It’s not perfect—but it’s pushing the category forward in a meaningful way.

You’re getting:

• Smarter navigation
• Strong cleaning performance
• A runtime profile that holds up well against similarly priced cordless competitors

Plain and simple—it’s one of the most complete cordless cleaners you can buy right now.

AIPER Scuba V3 AI Vision Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner, Include Wireless Charging Dock, Smart Waterline Parking & Featherlight Design, Micromesh Multi-Layer Filtration, Grey
  • 10x Faster Pool Cleaning with AI Patrol System: Single front-facing AI camera detects over 20 debris types and navigates directly to debris. It cleans up to ten times faster than traditional methods for efficient, energy-saving pool floor cleaning.
  • 24/7 Truly Carefree Cleaning: Cognitive AI Navium Mode creates autonomous weekly cleaning plans by analyzing pool size, weather, and cleaning history. Once activated, it runs without user intervention, keeping your pool maintained and swim-ready.
  • Retrieve without Effort: After cleaning, the robot automatically returns to the pool’s waterline (stay for 10-min) and sends real-time notifications via the app. This means no need to enter the pool or use tools for retrieval.
  • No Installation Wireless Charging Dock: Wirelessly charges Scuba V3 with no setup required. Simply place it on the dock to start safe, plug-free charging—no drying or exposed connectors. The dock also keeps the robot stored neatly when not in use.
  • No Dust Left Behind: The MicroMesh Multi Layer Filtration System combines a 180 micron debris filter with an ultra fine 3 micron layer that traps sand and invisible contaminants. It keeps your pool water clearer and healthier every time.

Photo Credits: Aiper

5/5 - (18 votes)

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