Products
Pencil Jets Create a Dramatic Water Feature in The Pool
If you are looking for ways to take your swimming pool to the next level and create a visually stunning and exciting water feature, look no further than pencil jets. They’ve become a popular choice among pool owners who want to add a touch of elegance, a dramatic visual effect, and the soothing sound of flowing water.
Creating a Unique Experience With Pencil Jets
To learn more about the benefits of pencil jets and how they can transform your pool, we sat down with pool contractor Blake Swanson, of Premier Pools & Spas in South Bay, CA.
With years of experience in the pool industry, Swanson is a seasoned pool builder and instructor known for his innovative designs and creative use of water features. According to Swanson, pencil jets are an excellent option for pool owners who want to elevate the aesthetics and functionality of their pools. He shared his insights on how this particular water feature can enhance your pool and create a unique experience for swimmers.
“It’s a cool design feature we offer our customers that just want a simple zero-level pool with no raised walls and water features. Usually, you’re kind of limited on water features when it’s a zero-level pool. So we try to get creative with deck jets and arch descents that go under the coping,” said Swanson.
“Typically coping overhangs about an inch and a half or an inch. Pencil jets are basically just small little cylinders with a hole that kind of comes up 45 degrees out of it to create a stylish water feature. Essentially it’s a deck jet that fits underneath the coping, so it’s a little more incognito. They’re great because you’re not walking across a deck jet or seeing a hole in your deck to create that water feature,” explained Swanson.

Subtle & Sophisticated
Swanson posted a demonstration of a completed project in the “Ask The Masters” group on Facebook, where pool contractors often share new techniques, showcase their work, and ask questions from seasoned veteran pool experts.
“I’m always a big fan of adding subtle things where it’s not in your face when you have a zero-level pool with maybe a spa inside of it. On this style of pool, you’re looking for a nice clean sheet of water. Pencil jets are optimal here because you see them when they’re on and you don’t when they’re off,” said Swanson.
“Whenever I do a zero-level pool, I try and offer that to homeowners, especially when they have kids. This type of water feature gives the pool a little bit of character,” explained Swanson, “but it’s more of an aesthetic choice of trying to create ways where you can add water features without making them noticeable when not in use.”

An Easy Water Feature For Pool Contractors To Install
One reason they’re becoming a more popular water feature is the ease of installation. Consequently, Swanson says that it’s incredibly simple to retrofit a pencil jet water feature into an existing pool if you have the right know-how.
“If you’re going to do a pool renovation in your backyard this is a good feature to consider adding, especially if you’re redoing coping or any plumbing,” said Swanson.
“Obviously you want to get the plumbing back to where the pump is and use three-quarter inch pipe or one inch depending on how you want to do it and reduce it down. You want that pipe to come just underneath the coping and it’s just like plumbing any new return lines, you’re not even really coring any holes so it’s actually a much simpler process,” said Swanson.
Because of the ease of installation, pencil jets are becoming increasingly popular with builders like Swanson, who claims that installation of this type of water feature is pretty straightforward.
“Installation is easy and it should really only take a day or two. Plumbers run the pipe, stub it out, and then whenever the tile and coping guys are doing their work, you need to make sure they cut the pipe and put the fitting on. Pencil jets really only reveal past the coping. You want to try to do it maybe like a quarter inch or a half an inch so that it’s not really enough for someone to step on and break off. Once it’s embedded underneath the coping just make sure that when you install it you can still unthread it,” explained Swanson.

“Think if you took a soda can and turned it on its side and you just drilled a hole at a 45-degree angle on top and then fed water through it so that it’s only coming out at that one point. You just adjust the flow to how far it’s going to spray. How much water you send to that pencil jet is going to be how far it goes,” said Swanson.

Pebble Technology Leading The Way
While there are a variety of different products available on the market, Swanson says he recommends Pebble Technology Arched Pencil Jets. “Our rep came in with this product very early on to us and we’ve just stuck with that brand ever since,” explained Swanson, “I think it’s like three to five gallons per minute needed. So you can do tons on a pool, depending on the size of the pump and other water features that you do on it. Pencil jets can certainly be done in conjunction with other water features as well.”
“I will tell you one thing though, always look at the manual and documentation. I would never tell anybody to install anything without looking at the install manual and what rating they are. If you’re installing in conjunction with other water features, you want to make sure you know the gallons per minute each water feature requires and that the size of your piping and your pump are adequate enough to accommodate that,” said Swanson.
Eager to learn more about pencil jets? Take a deeper dive and listen in on our entire conversation with Blake Swanson of Premier Pools & Spas on the Pool Magazine podcast.
Products
BackSaver2000 Revolutionizes Pool Water Collection and Testing
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.
Equipment Supplies
Beatbot Expands Its Lineup With iSkim and iSkim Ultra Robotic Pool Skimmers
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.
- 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.
- 【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.
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.
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 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™)
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
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
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
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

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
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.

Featherlight Design & Easy Retrieval
• Around 18 lbs
• Easier to lift than most competitors
• Waterline parking simplifies removal

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.

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 Scuba V3 Stacks Up Against the Competition
Here’s how it compares against similar cordless cleaners.
| Model | Navigation | Runtime | Cleaning Coverage | Filtration | Weight | Smart Features | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aiper Scuba V3 | AI Vision + Adaptive Routing | ~180 min | Floor, Walls, Waterline | Dual-layer fine + coarse | ~18 lbs | App control | AI-powered debris detection |
| WYBOT C2 | Smart Path (Gyro-based) | ~150–180 min | Floor, Walls | Dual-layer | ~20+ lbs | App control | Strong wall climbing |
| Beatbot Sora 70 | AI Path Planning + Smart Sensors | ~150–180 min | Floor, Walls, Waterline | Large-capacity multi-stage | ~20 lbs | App + automation | High debris capacity + strong all-surface cleaning |
| iGarden K Pro | Smart Navigation | ~120–150 min | Floor, Walls | Standard filtration | ~20+ lbs | Touch/app features | Budget-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.
- 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
-
Trade Shows2 weeks agoPool Trade Shows & Industry Events To Attend in 2026-2027
-
Industry News1 week agoPOOLCORP Welcomes John Watwood as President and Chief Executive Officer
-
Pool News3 weeks agoLincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Renovation Shifts to Faster, Lower-Cost Strategy
-
Op Editorials4 days agoCome to Buffalo And See First Hand What An Aquatic Desert Looks Like
-
News4 weeks agoLandmark Aquatic Integrates Splashtacular’s SlipStream® Water Slide for Aquatic Facilities
-
Pool News2 weeks agoWhen Pool Projects Become Political – Trump’s Pool Contractor Got Review Bombed
-
Manufacturer4 weeks agoNidec Commercial & Industrial Names New President and CTO
-
Trade Shows3 weeks agoCoverings 2026 Brings Wow Factor to Tile & Stone Industry Event

























