Robot Vacuum Reviews - How to Keep Your Robot Vacuum Clean
Many robot vacuums connect to apps that allow you to control the device without hands. These apps will help you plan cleaning sessions, set boundaries and create no-go zones.
Many of the robots we tested can automatically return to their base and recharge during a cleaning session, which is beneficial when you have a huge home. Some also come with self-emptying dust bins and water tank to keep the robot in good order and reduce the amount of allergens that can be found in your home.
Battery Life
If you live in a big house, consider a robot that can last for an hour or more in regular operation. Most models also include a "eco" or lower-power cleaning mode that conserves battery life, but does a great job of removing dirt and other debris from carpets and floors.
You can keep your home tidy even if you live in less space. For example our top choice for small homes is the Neato Botvac 11S Max, can run for around 60 minutes on floors with no flooring in standard mode and up to 90 minutes if you use Eco mode. It's smaller than most of the robots we tested, so it can be tucked under furniture and in corners.
It is a good idea to choose a robot that has advanced features that let you customize the cleaning options of the robot based on the amount of traffic that a certain area receives. You can set zones with a high amount of traffic to receive more suction or higher water levels. Some apps offer the option of changing settings per room or even floor of your house.
Apart from selecting a smart robot that will meet your specific cleaning requirements, it's important to keep up with routine maintenance tasks, such as emptying and refilling the bin for dust, checking brushes for hair tangles, and draining and washing the tank of water. You should also use the software updates provided by your manufacturer. They can enhance navigation algorithms, cut down on unnecessary power consumption, and help your robot extend its battery life.
Depending on the size of your family, you may require your robot to be running 3 to 4 times per week. Emily Rairdin, a vacuum expert at University Vacuum & Sewing, says that a standard robot will last between three and five years, however the lifespan of yours will be contingent on how well you take care of it and how often you run it.
budget robot vacuum of the newer models, with more advanced features in our top robot vac reviews are able to connect to smart speakers like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant and can operate completely hands-free. While this is an excellent convenience, remember that this means you will have to surrender certain personal information.
App Control
Many robots have a variety of app control options that let you define specific cleaning tasks, change preferences and schedule sessions. Some also integrate with digital assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and other voice-controlled smart home systems for a completely hands-free experience.
Robots employ a mix of lasers, sensors, and cameras to navigate your space. They're designed to search for and vacuum pet hair dirt, crumbs, and other particles from hard floors like laminate, wood, and tile as well as carpets with low piles and area rugs. They're also designed to avoid obstacles, like furniture legs and pet food bowls as they travel across your space.
As with any electronic device it's essential to keep up with the routine maintenance of your robot to ensure it continues working correctly. As long as you clean the rotating brushes regularly (they can get tangled with pet hair and dust) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding how to use and maintain your robot. You should also replace the batteries, filters, and wheels. The majority of models will last for as long as a traditional full-size vacuum.
Most robots can map and learn the space around you using sensors. This lets them plan an efficient cleaning route. Some higher-end models even permit you to set 'no-go zones' if there are certain areas you want the robot to stay clear of, such as your pet's food bowls, or expensive rug.
A growing number of robots also feature 'targeted rooms' which lets you instruct the robot to concentrate on a particular or a couple of areas of your home. This is a good option for those who have a lot of clutter that you'd like to clear or if you have a room that requires extra attention, such as the guest bedroom.
In addition to letting you alter the map of your robot's and cleaning preferences, many robots controlled by apps also come with various automated features that help with maintenance tasks. Certain robots have self-emptying bins that return to their docks once they are full.
The app-controlled Dreametech L10s Ultra navigated our test course very well, however it had difficulty identifying obstacles in its way and was unable to handle rug tassels that were blocked. It's still a great option for keeping a small space or studio tidy.
Cleaning Options
If the wheels of your robot vacuum get filthy or clogged with hair, dust or other debris, they can't spin smoothly. This could cause it to slow down or even stop. To ensure they are in good working order, clean them down using a soft cloth frequently. It is essential for robots that mop to take the pads off after each cleaning. Wash them with water and let them dry before reinstalling them. If you're concerned about the maintenance required opt for a model that is able to wash and dry mopping pads after each cleaning session.
Some robots can empty their trash bins automatically when they're full. This is a great feature if you have kids or pets. For most models, it is best to empty the dustbin manually to ensure that it is ready to receive a new load. Look for a model with a large bin that is easy to empty and remove and ensure that the base is able to hold the full bin without being obstructive in your home.
The quality of the sensors on your robot could also impact its life span. They detect furniture, walls and other obstacles in your home and guide the robot around them. Find robots with top-quality sensors. They will be able to recognize changes in the floor quickly and accurately and avoid getting stuck in tight spaces like the nook in between the toilet and the bathtub or under the legs of your desk chair.
Depending on the budget you have and how often you plan to utilize your robot, it's worth looking into a model that is able to recharge itself and resume cleaning where it left off when the battery gets low. This is particularly beneficial for homes with larger spaces, and makes it easier to keep a consistent and clean look throughout the house.
Noise Levels
The models vary in the level of noise they emit, and other factors can influence them. Manufacturers may advertise an option for low-noise operation or a quiet operating speed. However, you will need to know the rated of the machine to know what this number really means. In general, sounds that exceed 85 decibels are considered very loud and can damage hearing over time.
To find the quietest robotic vacuum, look for one that has advanced noise reduction technology or an operating mode that is low-noise. These features can dramatically reduce the operational noise and make it easier to carry on conversations or even to take a nap during cleaning.
Certain models have been constructed with the use of sound-absorbing or insulated materials in order to further reduce operating noise. These features are essential for people who live in areas with a lot of noise or have children living at home.
The navigation system and obstacle detection capabilities of a robot vacuum cleaner are also factors that affect the level of noise. Certain robots employ mapping technology based on cameras or lasers to prevent hitting furniture and walls when cleaning. These technologies also reduce the amount of noise that a robotic cleaner produces when cleaning by avoiding unnecessary bumps and collisions.
Despite the fact that today's robot vacuums are quieter than they have ever been, they still produce quite a bit of noise in normal operation. The noise they create can be distracting to those who have children or work at home, especially. Continuous exposure to high-frequency sounds is known to cause stress and to increase blood pressure.
If you notice your robot vacuum producing lots of noise There are a few options you can try before reaching out to the customer support of the manufacturer. First, check the machine for any visible damage. A cracked housing or loose component can increase the noise level making it sound like freight trains. Regularly clean and replace filters because they can get blocked by dirt and debris, which can increase the noise.
Another common culprit for abnormal noise is a damaged or dirty sensor. Sensors that are damaged or dirty can send a robot vacuum in a tense, shaky travel across your floors which could result in it bumping into objects and making a racket. If this happens, you can clean or replace the sensors and reconnect to your Wi-Fi if you need to.