Aiper Scuba V3 Pool Robot review: Eye on the prize

The app also includes access to two scheduled operating modes for those who want to leave the robot in the pool, including a calendar-based mode with three frequency levels – 90 minutes x 2, 60 minutes x 3, or 45 minutes x 4. The other mode is a bit frustrating: the so-called AI Navium mode It seems Like using the AI ​​camera to scan the pool periodically over the course of a week and only perform routine cleaning when needed – but in reality, this mode just does a quick analysis of previous runs and then uses the AI ​​to create a schedule for the next few days, based on how you’ve used the robot in the past.

Hungry for Gunk

The Scuba V3 did a fairly quick job of removing debris in my pool during my test run, rarely needing more than a few hours to remove all visible debris on the pool floor while also cleaning the walls and waterline. The AI ​​camera system seemed to work as advertised, and it was even able to locate small pebbles I’d thrown into the pool and direct itself to collect them. With organic debris, the pool looked perfectly clean after every round (finishing between 170 and 190 minutes each time), and with artificial debris, the Scuba V3 achieved a 96 percent cleanliness rating, with a few test sheets remaining in some tough corners. This is a particularly good performance considering that three hours is not a long time to run. Note that there is no way to adjust the operating time outside of scheduled modes; On-demand modes always run the battery until it’s almost dead. Fortunately, Aiper seems to be making the most of this time, officially specifying a maximum coverage area of ​​1,600 square feet.

Unfortunately, I haven’t had much success with AI table setting. After running the analyzer, the app suggested a confusing five-day schedule that included two floor tours, two floor plus waterline tours, and a final floor tour. He then ignored the schedule and immediately ran the floor for three hours, completely draining the battery. I tried again the next day, but the robot got its schedule wrong and then randomly ran late at night. I wasn’t a big fan of scheduling leave it in the pool before testing the Scuba V3, and this demo didn’t improve that opinion.

When you’re done running, the scuba rises to the waterline and sends a push notification to the app, alerting you that it’s ready for assembly and cleaning. Note that you only have 10 minutes to get to it: a submarine cannot float, so it must use the last of its juice to power a motor to tread water and hold itself in place. After 10 minutes, the spent scuba sinks to the pool floor and must be retrieved using a pool and hook. My best advice is to set a 175-minute timer every time you start your run to remind you to keep an eye on the completion notification.

Cleaning can be somewhat involved. The filter basket design features a large lid that makes it easy to access the internal filter, and cleaning these two filters with a hose is a breeze. However, the removable mesh on the inner basket is another story. Although they are very effective at picking up dirt and other very fine debris, they are very difficult to clean, and if you don’t remove them from the basket, a lot of the debris will get trapped between the mesh and the basket itself. The mesh is difficult to remove and replace, especially when wet, so I usually leave it in place and clean it as best I can after each ride, accepting that it will never be perfect. I expect most users will do the same.