Robot Vacuum Reviews - How to Keep Your Robot Vacuum Clean
Many robot vacuums connect to apps that let you control the device without hands. These apps let you plan cleaning sessions, set boundaries and no-go zones.
The robots we examined can automatically return to their base during a cleaning session and recharge, which is useful when you live in a large home. Some also come with a self-emptying dust bin and water tank to ensure that the robot is kept clean and help reduce the amount of allergens that can be found in your home.
Battery Life
If you have a large home, look for the best robot that can run for an hour or more in regular operation. Most models also include a "eco" or lower-power cleaning mode which saves battery life, yet is capable of removing dirt and dust from carpets and floors.
You can still keep your home tidy even if you live in smaller space. Our top choice for small homes is the Neato Botvac 11S Max can run on floors that are not bare for up to 90 minutes in Eco mode. It's smaller than the majority of the robots we tested, so it can fit under furniture and in corners.
It is a good idea to choose a model with smart features that allow you to personalize your robot's cleaning preferences based on how much traffic certain areas get. You can set zones with high traffic to ensure better suction and higher levels of water, for example. Certain apps let you alter settings based on floor or room.
In addition to selecting a robot that will meet your specific cleaning needs, it's important to stay on top of routine maintenance tasks, such as emptying and refilling the dust bin, checking brushes for hair tangles and draining and cleaning the tank of water. It's also an excellent idea to utilize the software updates provided by your manufacturer. They can enhance navigation algorithms, cut down on unnecessary power consumption and aid in extending your robot's battery life.
Depending on the size of your family, you might require your robot to be running 3 to 4 times per week. Emily Rairdin is a vacuum expert from University Vacuum & Sewing. She states that a robot should last anywhere between three and five years. However, the lifespan of yours is contingent on the way you maintain it and how frequently you use it.
Some of the more sophisticated models we have reviewed in our best robot vacuum reviews are able to connect to smart speakers such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing them to operate completely hands-free. While this is a wonderful convenience, you should be aware that this means you'll have to hand over some of your personal data.
App Control
Many robots have an array of apps control options that let you create specific cleaning tasks, change preferences and schedule your sessions. Some also work with digital assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and other voice-controlled smart home systems for a completely hands-free experience.
Robots navigate using a mix of sensors, cameras and lasers. They're designed to locate and vacuum pet hair, dirt, crumbs and other particles from floors made of laminate, tile, and wood as and carpets with low pile and area rugs. They're also designed to avoid obstacles, like furniture legs and pet food bowls, as they travel across your home.
It's important that you maintain your robot, just like any other electronic device. This will ensure that it functions properly. If you keep your rotating brushes clean (they are prone to getting caught in dust and pet hair), follow manufacturer instructions regarding how to use and maintain your robot and replace the batteries, filters, and wheels. Most models last just as long as a conventional full-size vacuum.
Most robots can identify and understand the space around you using sensors. This allows them to plan the most efficient route to clean. Some higher-end models even allow you to create 'no-go zones' when there are areas that you want the robot to skip over, such as your pet's food bowls or expensive carpets.
A increasing number of robots feature 'targeted rooms' which allows you to tell the robot to concentrate on a particular or a couple of areas of your home. This is a great feature when you have lots of clutter you want to clean up or if you've got a room that requires extra attention, like an extra bedroom for guests.
In addition to allowing you to customize your robot's map and cleaning preferences, most robots controlled by apps also come with various automated features that simplify maintenance. For instance, some models have self-emptying bins that return to their docks and empty themselves automatically once they're full.
The app-controlled Dreametech L10s Ultra navigated our test course with ease, but it had difficulty identifying obstacles in its way and was unable to handle rug tassels that were clogged. However, it's an affordable and efficient choice for keeping a studio apartment or small home tidy.
Cleaning Options
If the wheels of your robot become soiled or covered in hair, dust, or other debris they will not be smooth and cause the robot to slow down or become stuck. To keep them in good working order, clean them down using a soft cloth frequently. It's crucial for robots that mop to take the pads off after each cleaning. Wash them with water, and let dry before reinstalling them. If you're worried about keeping up with this maintenance, look for a model that can automatically wash and dry its own mopping pads during each cleaning session.
Some robots are designed to automatically empty their dust bins when they are full, and this can be an absolute boon for those with pets or kids. But for the majority of models the best way to ensure that the bin is ready for the next load of dirt or debris is to empty it manually. Select a model with a large bin, which is easy to remove and empty. Also, make sure that the base is able to hold the bin comfortably without being obstructive.
The quality of the sensors on your robot could also impact its life span. These sensors detect furniture, walls, and obstacles in your home and guide the robot around them. Find a robot that has high-quality sensors that can quickly respond to changes in floor surface and are precise enough to not get caught in tight spots like the nook between the bathtub and toilet or under your desk chair legs.
Depending on your budget and how often you want to make use of your robot, it's also worth investing in a model that can recharge itself and then resume cleaning where it left off when the battery gets low. This is particularly useful for homes with larger spaces, and helps keep a consistent clean throughout the home.
Noise Levels
The noise level of robot vacuums varies by model and is affected by other factors too. Certain manufacturers might offer the quiet mode or low-noise speed of operation however, you must know how the device is rated to understand what these numbers actually mean. Any sound above 85 decibels is considered to be high and can cause hearing damage over the course of time.
Make sure you choose models that utilize advanced noise reduction technologies or have a low-noise option. These features can dramatically reduce the operational noise, making it easier to carry on conversations or even to sleep during a cleaning session.
Some models are designed with insulation or sound-absorbing materials to reduce noise. These features can be important for those who reside in noisy areas or have children at home.
The navigation system and obstacle-detection capabilities of robot vacuum cleaners are other factors that influence the level of noise. Some robots use mapping technology based on cameras or lasers to avoid hitting walls and furniture when cleaning. These technologies can reduce the amount of noise a robot cleaner makes during its cleaning cycle. They accomplish this by making sure that there are no unnecessary bumps or collisions.
Although modern robot vacuums are becoming quieter, they still create significant amounts of noise when they are in operation. The noise they generate can be distracting for people who have children or work from home, in particular. Continuous exposure to high-level sound is known to cause stress, and to increase blood pressure.
You can try a few things before contacting the customer support of your robot vacuum if it is making a lot noise. Check the machine for visible damages. A damaged or cracked housing or loose component can increase the noise which can make it sound like a freight-train. Clean and replace filters regularly as they may get clogged up with dust and debris and make the noise more intense.
A sensor that is dirty or damaged can also be a reason for noise that is not normal. A damaged or dirty sensor could send a robotic vacuum on an unsteady and confusing journey across your floor, which can result in bumping into things and causing a sound. If this happens, you can clean or replace the sensors, and reconnect to your Wi-Fi, if needed.