First check whether the filter basket is full and whether the robot is fully charged.
First check whether the filter basket is full and whether the robot is fully charged. The Surfer S2 collects surface debris only — it does not clean the pool floor. Styrofoam or debris “coming out the top” indicates a basket that is full or incorrectly seated.
Filter Basket Full or Clogged
A full basket is the most common cause of poor skimming. The Surfer S2 basket fills quickly in heavy-debris pools. Check after every 2–3 sessions. Symptoms of a full basket: visible debris floating past the intake, foam or material exiting through the top jet, reduced forward movement. Remove, empty, rinse under a hose, and reinstall before the next run.
Debris Coming Out the Top
If you see debris or foam exiting through the top of the robot, this indicates the filter basket is overloaded or not correctly installed. The basket latch must click firmly into position. A poorly seated basket lets debris bypass the filter and exit through the water outlet jets. Check the basket seating before each run.
Robot Not Moving / Staying in One Area
The Surfer S2 uses pool water flow (from the pump and return jets) to assist its surface movement. In pools with weak or irregular circulation, the skimmer may stay in one area. Ensure the pool pump is running at normal speed. For pools with corner dead spots, manually reposition the skimmer periodically.
Pool Conditions That Reduce Effectiveness
Wind above Beaufort 3 (gentle breeze, leaves move) will push the skimmer against a wall and reduce coverage. Use the app to remotely reposition or pause during high-wind conditions. Heavy algae or oil-film buildup on the water surface can clog the intake faster — shock-treat the pool and skim the surface manually before running the robot in heavily contaminated water.