Robot Vacuum Reviews - How to Keep Your Robot Vacuum Clean
Many robot vacuums are compatible with apps that allow you to control the device without having to hold it. These apps allow you to schedule cleaning sessions, and create boundaries and zones that are not allowed to enter.
A few of the robots we reviewed are able to automatically return to their base after cleaning and recharge, which is beneficial when you reside in a large house. Certain robots come with a water tank and dust bins that can be emptied to keep them clean and reduce allergens.
Battery Life
If you own a huge home, choose a robot which can operate for an hour during normal operation. The majority of models come with an "eco" mode or lower-power cleaning that saves battery life while still doing a great job of removing dirt and debris.
You can keep your home tidy even if you live in a smaller space. Our top pick for small houses, the Neato Botvac 11S Max can run on bare floors for up to 90 minutes in Eco mode. It's smaller than the majority of the robots we tested, so it can be tucked under furniture and in corners.
It's a good idea to pick a model with intelligent features that allow you to personalize the cleaning preferences of your robot based on how much traffic certain areas get. You can set up zones that are prone to traffic to ensure better suction and more water levels for instance. Some apps allow you to modify settings based on the floor or room.
In addition to selecting the right robot that is suited to your needs for cleaning You should also conduct routine maintenance, such as emptying and filling the dustbin, checking the brushes for knots in hair, and cleaning and draining the tank of water. It's also recommended to make use of the software updates provided by your manufacturer. These updates can improve navigation algorithms, cut down on unnecessary power consumption, and help your robot extend its battery life.
Depending on the size of your family, you might need to run your robot 3 to 4 times per week. Emily Rairdin, a vacuum expert at University Vacuum & Sewing, says that a typical robot should last between three and five years, however the longevity of yours will depend on how well you take care of it and how often you run it.
Some of the newer models, which are more advanced, in our best robot vac reviews can be connected to smart speakers such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant and operate entirely hands-free. While this is an excellent convenience, you should be aware that this means you will have to hand over certain personal information.
App Control
Many robots are equipped with an array of apps control options that let you set specific cleaning jobs, change preferences and schedule your sessions. Some robots also work with digital assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and other voice-controlled home systems.
Robots employ a mix of lasers, sensors, and cameras to navigate through your space. They're designed to search for and vacuum pet hair, dirt, crumbs and other debris from hard floors such as laminate, tile, and wood as well as carpets with low pile and area rugs. They're also designed to stay clear of obstacles, such as furniture legs and pet food bowls as they travel across your home.
It is essential to maintain your robot just like any other electronic device. This will ensure that it continues to work effectively. If you clean the rotating brushes regularly (they are prone to getting caught in dust and pet hair) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines on using and maintaining your robot. Replace the filters, batteries and wheels. Most models last just the same amount of time as a traditional full-size vacuum.
The majority of robots on the market can be capable of mapping and learning the space around you by using sensors, which will aid them in planning an efficient route for every cleaning session. Some higher-end models even permit you to set 'no-go zones' if there are areas you want the robot to skip over like your pet's food bowls, or expensive rugs.
A growing number of robots also come with 'targeted rooms', which allows you to tell the robot to focus on a specific or a few areas of your home. This is a great choice for homes with lots of clutter and you're looking to clear it, or if a particular room needs extra attention, like the guest bedroom.
In best robot cleaner to letting you modify the robot's map and cleaning preferences, the majority of app-controlled robots also offer various automated features to simplify maintenance. Some robots come with self-emptying bins that return to their docks once they are full.
The app-controlled Dreametech L10s Ultra navigated our test course with ease, but it had difficulty identifying obstacles in its path and was unable to handle rug tassels that were blocked. It's still a good choice to keep a small home or studio tidy.
Cleaning Options
If the wheels of your robot vacuum get dirty or covered in dust, hair or other debris, they won't spin smoothly. This could cause it to slow down or even become stuck. To ensure they remain in good working order, wipe them clean using a soft cloth frequently. It's crucial for mopping robots to remove the pads after each cleaning. Wash them with water and let them dry before reinstalling them. If you are worried about maintaining this maintenance opt for an option that automatically washes and dry mopping pads following each cleaning session.
Some robots can empty their trash bins automatically when they're full. This is a great feature if you have children or pets. For the majority of models, it is best to empty the dustbin by hand to ensure it is ready for the next load. Choose a model that has an ample bin that is easy to take out and empty. Also, ensure that the base can hold the bin in a comfortable manner without becoming obstructional.
Another aspect that could impact how long your robot lasts is the quality of its sensors. These are the sensors that detect walls, furniture obstacles, as well as other items in your home and assist the robot to navigate its route around them. Find a robot that has high-quality sensors that quickly respond to changes in floor surfaces and are precise enough to avoid getting stuck in tight spaces like the nook between the bathtub and toilet or under your desk chair legs.
Depending on the budget you have and how often you want to make use of your robot, it's also worthwhile to invest in a robot that is able to recharge itself and then resume cleaning from where it left off when the battery runs low. This is especially beneficial for homes with larger spaces and makes it easier to keep a consistent clean throughout the home.
Noise Levels
Models differ in the level of noise they emit and other variables can influence the sound quality. Some manufacturers may offer the quiet mode or low-noise operating speed but you'll need be aware of how the device is rated to understand what these numbers actually mean. Any sound that exceeds 85 decibels is considered loud and can cause hearing damage over time.
Look for models that use advanced noise reduction technologies or have a low-noise option. These features can drastically reduce the operational noise, making it easier to carry on a conversation or even rest during a cleaning session.
Some models have been designed with the use of sound-absorbing or insulated materials in order to further reduce operating noise. These features can be important for those who live in a noisy area or have children at home.
Other factors that affect noise levels include the navigation system and the obstacle detection capabilities of a robotic vacuum cleaner. Some robots utilize mapping technology that is based on lasers or cameras to prevent hitting furniture and walls when cleaning. These technologies can also help reduce the amount of noise a robotic cleaner produces during the cleaning process by eliminating unnecessary collisions and bumps.
Although modern robot vacuums are getting quieter, they still generate significant amounts of noise during normal operation. The sounds they produce can be distracting, especially for those with small children or work from home. Continuous exposure to high-level sound is known to cause stress, and also to raise blood pressure.
If you notice your robot vacuum producing loud noises, there are a few things you could try prior to reaching out to the customer support of the manufacturer. First, check the machine for obvious damage. A cracked housing or a loose component can increase the noise and make it sound like a freight train. Regularly clean and replace filters as they may get blocked by dirt and debris, which can make the noise more intense.
Another reason for unusual noise is a damaged or dirty sensor. Sensors that are dirty or damaged can send the robot vacuum on a shaky, confused journey across your floors, which could result in it bumping into objects and making an eerie noise. If this happens, you can clean or replace the sensors and reconnect to your Wi-Fi, if necessary.