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New Year. New Pool. New Technology?

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Aiper Pool Cleaner

As I write this, it’s the beginning of the year, and the Midwest, where I and a healthy portion of the country, is currently experiencing snowstorms, freezing temperatures, and just trying to find a way to stay warm – cheaply. Our pools are probably one of the furthest things from our minds, but that shouldn’t be the case. Summer comes swiftly, and if we’re to make the most out of it, we should be prepared. That not only means getting our to-do list ready, our yard improvements in order, our pool maintenance prepped but also, educating ourselves on all the pool improvements and accessories that our coming out because, surprise, 2023 is going to be a huge year for pools.

When it comes to our pools, they’re meant to be our escape into relaxation, our suburban oasis – no one wants to cannonball, swan dive, or backstroke through something more akin to a swamp, nor are we interested in spending our valuable weekend time scrubbing, skimming, and pumping dirt and debris from our watery haven. But let’s backtrack, that headline mentioned technology, what technology am I going to add to my pool? When it comes to the backyard, we don’t think about making it “smart” in the way that we do our phones, our cars, or our homes, but increasingly, the “Smart-Yard” concept is emerging, and it’s starting with your pool.

The global showcase of all upcoming tech wonders, CES 2023, just happened in Las Vegas and several notable pool innovations were on display throughout the show. Most notably, the new kid on the block but recent innovator and trendsetter, Aiper, unleashed its new Seagull cordless robotic pool cleaning series, led by the Seagull Pro, which earned Aiper a CES 2023 Innovation Award nomination. Since making a splash into the pool scene in 2017, Aiper has forced the pool cleaning industry to recognize and adapt by normalizing cordless robotic cleaners for your pool. The single purchase of a robotic pool cleaner typically saves pool owners hundreds of dollars in pool cleaning expenses and an equal amount of time saved by letting your toys do all the work.

Costing less than $1 a month to charge compared to your pool pump, which costs roughly $0.40 – $0.50 each time you use it. The new Seagull series by Aiper promises users to “take back their free time and start enjoying their pool.” The new Seagull series cleans pools of various sizes from 90 to 180 minutes, their newest, most advanced model releasing this March – the Seagull Pro, introduces the world’s first quad-motor pool cleaner, three-hour battery life, wall cleaning, and WavePath™ Navigation Technology increasing its cleaning area coverage when compared to most products that clean in random, erratic patterns.  

But in 2023, are cordless pool cleaners worth it yet? 100% absolutely, yes! But why? Well, robotic pool cleaners clean your pool for you – that’s it, end of article. Jokes aside, even if you’re not already sold on the money-saving, time-saving, or eco-friendly aspect of a robotic pool cleaner, if you need just a little more push to give them a serious look, consider the following two things.

First, many robotic pool cleaners have their own built-in filter, thereby saving water. Why a robotic pool cleaners filter won’t be your end all be all filter solution, it will take the strain off your pool’s own filter. It takes between 1,000 to 4,000 liters of water to clean out your pool’s filter, but with a robotic pool cleaner, we’re talking about a bucket of water on average to clean your filter – saving time, money, and thousands of liters of water a year by using a cordless robotic cleaner.  What this translates to is a well-kept pool that needs less regular maintenance or repair, potentially saving you thousands.

To piggyback on the previous point, most cleaners have sophisticated pumping systems, some up to 90 GPM of water cycled and mixed through your pool. What this does is prevents water from getting stagnant and building up bacteria or algae. Compared to hand cleaning and scrubbing, which will release debris and bacteria back into the depths of your pool, these pumps, combined with the filters, and some cleaner’s UV sterilization technologies, means your pool’s water is cleaner and healthier than even your eyes can detect.

So that’s it, it’s going to be an exciting year for pool technology, of all things, and I personally can’t wait to get my hand on the Seagull Pro. I’m super forgetful and always forget to charge my devices, with its impressive battery life, I can clean my pool two or maybe even three times, and with the WavePath™ Navigation Technology combined with the quad-motor system, I expect my pool to look its best. It’s a competitive, exciting field out there for pool cleaners, and Aiper is looking impressive and putting all other pool cleaning brands on notice!

If you’d like to hear what else was announced at CES, please visit Aiper.com to learn more about the new Seagull products, visit Aiper.com.

5/5 - (2 votes)

Pool News coverage brought to you by Pool Magazine's own Marcus Packer. Marcus Packer is a 20 year pool industry veteran pool builder and pool service technician. In addition to being a swimming pool professional, Marcus has been a writer and long time contributor for Newsweek Magazine's home improvement section and more recently for Florida Travel + Life. Have a story idea or tip you'd like to share with Pool Magazine? Email [email protected] your story idea.

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Guest Post

Do I Need a Robotic Pool Cleaner?

We look at the pros and cons of robotic pool cleaners and discuss the 10 features consumers want most.

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Do I Need a Robotic Pool Cleaner? What style of pool cleaner is best?

Swimming pools provide a wonderful way for families to have fun and enjoy the outdoors. But with a pool comes the necessary task of cleaning and maintaining it. While there are many different ways to clean your pool, one of the most effective and efficient methods is with a robotic pool cleaner. But, is a robotic pool cleaner right for your pool and your budget?

Pros & Cons of Robotic Pool Cleaners

Let’s discuss the pros and cons of a robotic pool cleaner, so you can make the most informed decision for your pool. We’ll take a look at some of the features of robotic pool cleaners, the different types available, and the cost associated with owning one. We’ll also look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of robotic pool cleaners, so you can make the most informed decision possible. With this information, you will be able to determine if a robotic pool cleaner is the best choice for your pool maintenance needs.

Polaris Robotic Pool Cleaner

Pros of Robotic Pool Cleaners:

  1. Efficient cleaning: Robotic pool cleaners are designed to clean your pool more efficiently and effectively than manual cleaning methods. They can clean your pool faster and more thoroughly, leaving your pool sparkling clean.
  2. Energy-efficient: Robotic pool cleaners consume less energy compared to other types of pool cleaners. They are powered by low-voltage electricity and have their own filtration system, which reduces the workload on your pool’s filter and pump.
  3. Saves time: Robotic pool cleaners save you time by automatically cleaning your pool, allowing you to focus on other important tasks. You can set them up to run on a schedule, so your pool is always clean without requiring your attention.
  4. Easy to use: Robotic pool cleaners are easy to use, with simple controls and programming options. They also come with a remote control, allowing you to adjust the settings and clean specific areas of your pool.

Cons of Robotic Pool Cleaners:

  1. Expensive: Robotic pool cleaners can be more expensive than other types of pool cleaners. However, they are an investment in the long run as they require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan compared to other types of pool cleaners.
  2. Repairs and maintenance: Although robotic pool cleaners are generally durable and low-maintenance though they may require occasional repairs or maintenance, which can be expensive.
  3. Limited mobility: Robotic pool cleaners have a limited range of mobility, and they may not be able to clean certain areas of your pool, such as stairs or tight corners.
  4. Storage space: Robotic pool cleaners require a storage space, which may be a problem if you have limited space around your pool area. Additionally, some models can be heavy and bulky, making it difficult to move or store.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Owning a Robot Pool Cleaner

Robotic pool cleaners offer several advantages, including convenience, efficient cleaning, and suitability for different pool styles and sizes. They are designed to require little to no human intervention, allowing pool owners to spend more time enjoying their pool. Additionally, they are effective in thoroughly cleaning pools, removing dirt, debris, and algae from the walls and floor of the pool. Robotic pool cleaners also come in a wide variety, making them suitable for different pool sizes and types.

However, owning a robot pool cleaner also has some disadvantages. The primary drawback here is going to be the high initial cost, which can be a barrier for some consumers. Additionally, they may require periodic maintenance, such as replacing belts or other parts, which can add to the overall cost of ownership. Robotic pool cleaners may also struggle with larger or heavier debris, requiring manual cleaning in some instances. Finally, they may not be able to clean hard-to-reach areas, such as steps or corners, as effectively as manual cleaning methods.

Cayman Robotic Pool Cleaner

Top 10 Features Consumers Want

  1. Cleaning Performance: The most important feature consumers look for in the best robotic pool cleaner is its ability to thoroughly clean the pool. This includes the ability to remove dirt, debris, and other particles that are commonly found in pools.
  2. Wall climbing ability: Many robotic pool cleaners are designed to climb walls and clean the waterline. This feature ensures that your pool’s walls are just as clean as the floor, resulting in a more thorough cleaning.
  3. Tangle-free cord: Some robotic pool cleaners have a tangle-free cord, which reduces the likelihood of the cord getting tangled during operation. This feature saves you time and effort by reducing the need to untangle the cord.
  4. Self-contained filtration system: Robotic pool cleaners have their own filtration system, which reduces the workload on your pool’s filter and pump. This also means that the robot can filter out finer particles, resulting in cleaner pool water.
  5. Programmable cleaning cycles: Robotic pool cleaners can be programmed to run on a schedule, allowing you to set it and forget it. This feature saves you time and effort by automatically cleaning your pool at regular intervals.
  6. Remote control: Robotic pool cleaners come with a remote control, which allows you to adjust the settings and direct the robot to clean specific areas of your pool.
  7. Multiple cleaning brushes: Most robotic pool cleaners come with multiple brushes, including a scrub brush, to help remove dirt and debris from the pool’s walls, floor, and waterline.
  8. Obstacle detection: Many robotic pool cleaners have sensors that detect obstacles, such as steps or corners, and adjust their cleaning path accordingly. This feature ensures that the robot cleans your entire pool without getting stuck.
  9. Lightweight design: Some robotic pool cleaners are lightweight and easy to handle, making them easy to move and store.
  10. Energy-efficient motors: Some robotic pool cleaners have energy-efficient motors that consume less energy and reduce your electricity costs.

In terms of providing the best value, the features that are most important will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, in general, the self-contained filtration system and programmable cleaning cycles provide the most value, as they reduce the workload on your pool’s filtration system and save you time and effort in the long run. Additionally, the remote control and obstacle detection features can make the cleaning process more efficient and effective. It’s important to consider the features that are most important to you and choose a robotic pool cleaner that fits your needs and budget.

TigerShark Robot Cleaner

Types of Robotic Pool Cleaners

Robotic pool cleaners come in various shapes, sizes, and configurations. Here are some of the types of robotic pool cleaners available on the market:

  1. Robotic In-ground Pool Cleaners: These cleaners are specifically designed for in-ground pools and have features like scrubbing brushes, multiple filter cartridges, and remote control options. They can be programmed to clean the pool on a set schedule and typically come with longer power cords.
  2. Robotic Above-ground Pool Cleaners: These cleaners are specifically designed for above-ground pools and typically have smaller motors and shorter cords. They are generally less expensive than in-ground pool cleaners and are easier to store when not in use.
  3. Commercial Robotic Pool Cleaners: These cleaners are designed for use in large commercial pools, such as those found in hotels, waterparks, and public swimming pools. They are typically more expensive than residential models and have larger motors, filters, and debris bags to handle the increased volume of water and debris.

The price of a robotic pool cleaner can vary significantly depending on the brand, model, and features. While some basic models can be found for a few hundred dollars, more advanced models can cost a couple of thousand dollars. Some of the best robotic pool cleaners under $500 still have some of the higher-echelon features you’ll find in more expensive cleaners.

Some of the factors that can impact cost are:

  • Cleaning Performance: High-end robotic pool cleaners typically have better cleaning performance than cheaper models. They may have stronger motors, more advanced scrubbing brushes, or multiple filter cartridges to provide a more thorough cleaning.
  • Size and Type of Pool: The size and type of pool can affect the price of a robotic pool cleaner. Larger pools may require a more powerful and expensive model, while in-ground pools may require more advanced cleaning features than above-ground pools.
  • Programmable Features: Some robotic pool cleaners come with advanced programmable features that allow users to set a cleaning schedule or customize cleaning patterns. These features can add to the cost of the cleaner.
  • Brand Name: The brand name of a robotic pool cleaner can also affect its price. Well-known and established brands may charge more for their products than lesser-known brands.

Are Pool Robots the Right Choice for Me?

Before making an investment, it’s important to consider all the factors we discussed and determine if a pool robot is a right choice for you and your pool. For avid swimmers who have a pool in their backyard, the question of whether to invest in a pool robot can be daunting. Most people just want to purchase the best type at the best price point. To really answer this question, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of robots and understand the different options available. With the right combination of features at the right price point, a pool robot can make swimming and maintenance easier and more enjoyable.

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Guest Post

Benefits of Reducing Fuel Costs with GPS Trackit

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Businesswoman or accountant working Financial investment on calculator

GPS Trackit Has Fleet Monitoring Technology That Saves Pool Service Operators From Drowning in Fuel Costs

Spring and summer have been seasons of pain for pool service operators—at least when it comes to prices at the pump. Fuel costs crested in June at more than $5 per gallon, making an operator’s single biggest variable expense even larger.

Fuel prices have started to retreat, but the only way to truly take some control over fuel spend is to approach it systematically. And that starts with fleet monitoring technology like GPS Trackit.

The best fleet monitoring technology is a kind of cost-saving, safety-promoting, efficiency-encouraging Swiss Army knife. GPS Trackit’s fleet management system installs in each vehicle in minutes and provides an constant, real-time connection to the vehicle’s engine diagnostics to keep track of a truck’s fuel efficiency and overall health.

For less than the cost of a cup of coffee per day, pool operators can see where each truck is in real time, develop the most efficient routes between jobs, and collect complete diagnostic data on how each truck is being driven.

Fleet tech customers typically see a 5 to 20 percent improvement in average fuel economy system-wide—and many use the routing features to plot a more efficient roster of assignments for each truck. One client was able to see 20 percent more clients within 60 days thanks to more efficient routing—and he did it with the same number of crews and vehicles.

Lower fuel costs and more efficient routes are two of the most obvious fuel-related benefits that come from fleet monitoring. Others are more subtle, but also significant.

-Expanded service range

With better fuel economy and more efficient routing, visiting clients in farther-flung locations becomes more viable. Deploying crews more efficiently allows other trucks to be deployed in adjacent service areas.

-Better customer service

With more precise tracking, operators know where crews are, and can much more accurately predict when crews will arrive at the next job. Customers love operators who arrive when they say they will, within tight time windows.

-Improved driver behavior

What gets measured gets done. When crews know they’re being evaluated on metrics like fuel consumption and aggressive driving—hard acceleration, braking and turning—those behaviors are reduced. Driving within the speed limit and avoiding hard acceleration and braking is both fuel efficient and safer. It also reduces wear and tear on vehicles, which increases their service life.

-Consolidated fuel spend

The Google Maps-based interface within GPS Trackit makes it easy for operators to see where trucks are and assign them to refueling stops at preferred vendors. Instead of haphazardly refueling at “convenient” locations, operators can negotiate volume pricing from specific vendors and refuel in an organized cadence with fleet fuel cards.

-Less environmental impact

Fewer miles driven and improved fuel efficiency means less harmful exhaust. A Canadian study showed that avoiding three minutes of excess idling per day nationwide would remove 1.4 million tons of Co2 from the air, and be the equivalent of removing more than 300,000 cars from the road.

For more information on how your pool service company can save money on fuel, schedule a free demo with a GPS Trackit Fleet Advisor today.

By Penelope Rudy

5/5 - (1 vote)

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Guest Post

I Stopped Cleaning and Started Enjoying My Pool

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Aiper Pool Cleaner

How much time do you spend cleaning your pool? A few hours a week? A month? Or do you dedicate time before swimming to the tedious task of cleaning it out? Depending on the size of your pool and how frequently you swim, there are bound to be as many answers as there are pool owners, so let’s set some parameters.

The average (American) size of a rectangular pool is 10 feet by 20 feet at the low end of the scale to 20 feet by 40 feet at the larger end. For a lap pool, the average size is about 10 feet wide and 50 feet long, which is pretty significant. However, the average size for a smaller in-ground pool can range from 10 feet by 20 feet and 20 feet by 40 feet on the larger side.

Now that we’ve identified a few of the typical American pool types and their average sizes, how do we keep our pools healthy? Think about it for a moment, tab up all the times you go to your pool to keep the waters fresh, the floor and waterline clean, and your entire pool area looking remarkable. Add up the skimming, vacuuming, checking the chlorine and pH levels, and running your pump. Got a figure in your head now? Now we’ll tell you how you compare according to our findings. On average, pool owners spend 90-120 minutes a week cleaning their pools. For those who don’t take carry out routine weekly maintenance of their pools, that number shoots up to four hours to clean and balance their pool. 

I don’t know about you, but I’d rather spend those two hours doing just about anything else rather than cleaning my pool. First, what are the basics? A pool vacuum head, hose, pole, skimmer net, and pool brush are the standard tools of the pool cleaning trade. Altogether, costing me around $180. Add on chlorine tablets, and there’s another $100 or MORE! Overall, not bad, but what if I value my free time and would rather my pool just….clean itself? Well, the obvious solution would be a costly pool cleaning service. Annually, on average, these services cost $1,432. While most services are impeccably professional and unintrusive, some people would rather keep their privacy. 

Pool cleaning services have been around almost as long as pools have been around, and cleaning them, the technology really hasn’t changed much in the last 100 years, not until this century when robotic cleaners slowly hit the market. For a while, this seemed like an excellent solution to cleaning your pool while taking back your time. It wasn’t the revolution in pool cleaning we would have imagined. Despite the design or whatever technological “innovations” were included in generations of pool cleaners, they all, even the biggest names in the space, had one limitation – cords. Tangling and tripping aside, I never felt 100% safe plugging in an electrical device with the intention of putting it into water.

Finally, I stumbled across Aiper, who has been producing CORDLESS pool cleaners for the last five years. They’ve got a cordless robot for just about any pool size and style. Remember those averages we established earlier for pools in America? The Seagull 600 and Seagull 1000 can both easily take care of those. Have something a little more grand in your backyard? Or want something that scrubs your pool walls also? The Seagull 3000 has got you covered. 

Aiper Products
Aiper Cordless Pool Cleaners

Okay, okay, you got it – I like my Aiper, personally, I’m using the Seagull 1000 right now with intentions of upgrading later. Why the hype for it? Well, as I mentioned, it’s CORDLESS. And it saves me money in the long run, it’s budget-friendly! I charge it overnight or, if I’m forgetful in the morning, drop it in my pool, and the pool is clean and ready to swim in about an hour and a half. All while I’m enjoying my morning, not cleaning. So, you’re interested, but it sounds expensive, right? No! My Seagull 1000 was a mere $300 compared to the $180 I spent on all those other tools I detailed earlier – that feels like a steal. The Seagull 3000 I plan to upgrade to later does cost a bit more of an investment, just over $1000. Compared to other brands in the space, though, it’s still a deal. Most robotic cleaners cost roughly $600-$800 with no entry-level options. Most cordless cleaners in the marketplace report electrical usage for their device costing less than $1 a year. Over time, that adds up to some massive savings. 

Let’s imagine – you pick up a robotic pool cleaner, and you’ve now freed up 90 minutes of your morning; what do you do? Go to the gym, cook and eat breakfast and a second breakfast if you’re a hobbit, watch three episodes of television,  learn or practice a new hobby, meal prep, organize, do yoga, practice a new language – whatever your choice,  a robotic cleaner gives back your “you time.” Our lives, after all, are busier than ever today. Finding ways to be more efficient with our time and spending more time on things we actually enjoy will help give us a lot more fulfillment and more balance in our lives with minimal effort, and my Aiper has done that for me. 

Our pool health should always be something we’re concerned with. An imbalance in the chemicals in your pool can cause skin reactions, infections, or damage to your eyes. Algae, if not cleaned up, may cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may occur. Dirt and debris are not only unsightly but, if left unkept, can chip away at the floor and walls of our pools, and that doesn’t make for a pleasant swim. Our swimming pools can be an amazing addition to our homes – they set the scene, are great workouts, provide leisure, and are fun and games for children and teenagers and feel like paradise on scorching summer days. 

My pool has honestly done so much for me, and I want to take care of it in return; I just don’t want to babysit it. A cordless cleaner, and for me, my Seagull 1000, has allowed me to keep my pool not just maintained but has improved my overall pool maintenance – obviously, I’m not the one doing it. I just unplug it, drop it in, and get back to my life. While I hit the gym, my device cleans the pool more regularly than I ever would. While I’m playing with the kids, my cordless robot cleans deeper than I ever could. And when I’m – well, you get it. For both your pool health and your mental health, consider upgrading to a cordless robotic pool cleaner and see the difference for yourself.

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