Robot Vacuum Reviews - How to Keep Your Robot Vacuum Clean
Many robot vacuums can be used with apps that let you control the device without holding it. These apps let you schedule cleaning sessions, create boundaries and zones that are not allowed to enter.
A few of the robots we reviewed can automatically return to their base and recharge during a cleaning time, which is helpful for those who have a big house. Many also have a self-emptying dust bin and water tank to keep the robot clean and reduce the amount of allergens that can be found in your home.
Battery Life
If you own a large home, you should consider an appliance that can run for an hour or more in regular operation. Many models also have an "eco" or lower-power cleaning mode that conserves battery life but still does a great job of removing dirt and dust from carpets and floors.
If your space is little smaller but you'll still have plenty of options for keeping the place neat. 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 most of the robots we tested, so it can be tucked under furniture and into corners.
It is a good idea to choose a robot that has intelligent features that let you customize the cleaning options of the robot based on the amount of traffic a particular area receives. You can create zones with a high amount of traffic to receive more suction or more water levels. Some apps also offer the option to change settings per room or even floors of your home.
In addition to selecting a robot that is tailored to your cleaning needs and requirements, you should also carry out routine maintenance, such as emptying and refilling the dustbin, checking brushes for hair knots, and cleaning and draining the tank of water. It's also an excellent idea to utilize the software updates provided by the manufacturer. These updates can improve navigation algorithms and cut down on unnecessary power consumption, which can extend the life of your battery robot.
Depending on the size of your family, you might have to run your robot three to four times per week. Emily Rairdin is a vacuum expert from University Vacuum & Sewing. She states that a robot is expected to last between three and five year. However, the lifespan of yours depends on how you maintain it and how often you use it.
Some of the more recent, more advanced models in our top robot vacuum reviews can be connected to smart speakers such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant and operate entirely hands-free. This is a fantastic convenience, but you will need to provide certain personal information.
App Control
Many robots have a wide variety of app control options that allow you to set specific cleaning jobs, change preferences and schedule your sessions. Certain robots also integrate with digital assistants, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and other voice-controlled home systems.
Robots navigate using a mix of cameras, sensors and lasers. They're designed to search for and vacuum pet hair, dirt, crumbs and other messes from floors made of laminate, wood, and tile as well as carpets with low pile and area rugs. They're also designed to avoid obstacles, like furniture legs and pet food bowls when they move through your space.
It is crucial to keep up with your robot just like any other electronic device. This will ensure that it continues to work efficiently. As long as you follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to use and maintain your robot, replace the batteries, filters and wheels and clean the rotating brushes (they could get tangled with dirt and pet hair), most models will last longer than traditional full-size vacuums.
Most robots are able to map and learn the space around you using sensors. This lets them plan a more efficient cleaning route. Some models let you set 'no go zones' for areas you don't want the robot to clean, for example pet food bowls and expensive rug.
A growing number of robots also come with 'targeted rooms', which lets you instruct the robot to focus on a specific or a few areas of your home. This is a good option when you have a lot of clutter that you'd like to clear or if you've got an area that requires more attention, like an extra bedroom for guests.
Most robots that are controlled by apps have various automated features that make daily maintenance simpler. Certain robots have self-emptying bins that return to their docks once they are full.
While the app-controlled Dreametech L10s Ultra did a fantastic job in getting around our test courses but it struggled to spot obstacles that were blocking its path and was unable to handle clogged rug tassels. It's still an affordable and efficient choice for keeping a studio apartment or small homes tidy.
Cleaning Options
When the wheels of your robot vacuum become filthy or clogged with dust, hair or other debris, they are unable to spin smoothly. This can cause it to slow, or even get stuck. Clean them regularly with a soft cloth, to keep them functioning properly. It is essential for robots that mop to remove the pads after each cleaning. Clean them with water and let them dry before reinstalling them. If you're worried about maintaining this routine choose a model that automatically cleans and dries its own mopping pads at each cleaning session.
Some robots are able to empty their dustbins automatically when they're full. This is a fantastic feature if you have kids or pets. For the majority of models, it is best to empty the trash bin manually to ensure that it is ready to receive another load. Choose a model that has an enormous bin, which is easy to take out and empty. Also, make sure that the base can hold the bin without becoming impervious.
The quality of your robot's sensors can also affect its lifespan. They detect walls, furniture and obstacles around your home and direct the robot around them. Choose a robot with high-quality sensors that quickly respond to changes in floor surfaces and are precise enough to avoid getting trapped in tight areas such as the space between the bathtub and toilet or under your desk chair legs.
Based on your budget and the frequency you'd like to make use of your robot, it's worth looking into a model that can charge itself and then resume cleaning from where it stopped off when the battery runs low. This is especially beneficial for larger homes and makes it easier to keep a consistent clean throughout the home.
Noise Levels
Models differ in their noise levels, and other factors can also affect the sound quality. Manufacturers may mention the option of a low-noise or quiet operating speed. However, you'll need to know the rating of the machine to know what this number really means. Any sound above 85 decibels is considered to be high and can cause hearing damage over the course of time.
To find the quietest robot vacuum, look for one that has advanced noise reduction technology or has a low-noise mode of operation. These features can significantly lower the noise of operation and make it easier to carry on conversations or even to take a nap during cleaning.
Certain models have been constructed with sound-absorbing or insulated materials to further reduce the operating noise. These features are crucial for those who live in noisy environments or have children at home.
Other factors that affect the level of noise are the navigation system and obstacle detection capabilities of a robot vacuum cleaner. Some robots employ laser or camera-based mapping technology to avoid bumping into walls and furniture when cleaning. These technologies can also help reduce the amount of noise a robotic cleaner produces during its cleaning cycle by avoiding unnecessary bumps and collisions.
While the latest robot vacuums are becoming much quieter, they still create significant amounts of noise in normal operation. The sounds they produce can be distracting, particularly for those who have small children or work at home. Constant exposure to high-frequency 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 component can amplify the sound level and cause it to sound like freight trains. You should also clean and replace your filters, as these can become clogged with dust and debris and increase the noise of operation.
A sensor that is damaged or dirty can also be a source of noise that isn't normal. A damaged or dirty sensor can send the robotic vacuum on a shaky and confused journey across your floor, which could 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 you need to.