Robot Vacuum Reviews - How to Keep Your Robot Vacuum Clean
Many robot vacuums can connect to apps that allow you to control the device without hands. These apps let you plan cleaning sessions, set boundaries and no-go zones.
A few of the robots we reviewed are able to automatically return to their base after a cleaning session and recharge, which is helpful for those who live in a large home. Some robots have water tanks and a dust bin which can be cleaned to ensure they are clean and reduce allergens.
Battery Life
If you have a large house, consider an appliance that can last for an hour or more in normal operation. Most models have an "eco" mode or lower-power cleaning that can save battery life while doing an excellent job at getting rid of dirt and other debris.
You can keep your home clean, even if it's a smaller space. For instance our top pick for homes with small spaces, the Neato Botvac 11S Max, can run for around 60 minutes on floors with no flooring in normal mode, and up to 90 minutes in Eco mode. It's smaller than the other robots we tested and therefore is easier to slip under furniture and into corners.
It's a smart idea to choose a robot that has smart features, which let you customize the robot's cleaning preferences depending on how much traffic a certain area receives. You can set high-traffic zones to get stronger suction and higher water levels, for example. Some apps also offer the option to change settings per room or even the floor of your home.
Apart from selecting an appropriate robot to your needs for cleaning, you should also perform regular maintenance, like emptying and filling the dustbin, checking brushes for hair knots, as well as draining and washing the water tank. It's also a good idea to use the software updates provided by your manufacturer. These updates can improve navigation algorithms, reduce unnecessary power consumption and aid in extending your robot's battery life.
Depending on the size of your family, you might need to run your robot 3 to 4 times a week. Emily Rairdin, a vacuum expert at University Vacuum & Sewing, says that a typical robot should last between three to five years, but the longevity of yours will depend on how well you care for it and how often you use it.
Some of the latest models, with more advanced features in our top robot vac reviews are able to connect to smart speakers such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant and operate entirely hands-free. While this is an excellent convenience, be aware that this means you will have to surrender some of your personal information.
App Control
Many robots are equipped with an array of apps control options that let you create specific cleaning tasks, change preferences and schedule sessions. Some also integrate with digital assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and other smart home voice-controlled systems for a completely hands-free experience.
best budget robot vacuum cleaner make use of a combination of sensors, lasers and cameras to navigate through your space. They are designed to sweep up pet hair, dirt and other debris on hard floors like laminate, wood, tile, as well as carpets with low piles and area rugs. They're also designed to avoid obstacles such as furniture legs or pet food bowls as they travel around your space.
It's important that you maintain your robot, just like any other electronic device. This will ensure that it continues to work effectively. As long as you adhere to the manufacturer's instructions regarding how to use and maintain your robot, you should replace the batteries filters, wheels and filters and clean the rotating brushes (they could get tangled with pet hair and dirt) Most models will last as long as traditional vacuums that are full-sized.
The majority of robots can map and learn the space around you using sensors. This lets them plan an efficient cleaning route. Some models allow you to create 'no-go zones' to areas you do not want the robot to clean, for example pet food bowls and expensive rug.
Many robots have the feature of 'targeted rooms' that allows you to direct the robot to clean a specific part of your house. This is a good option for those who have an abundance of clutter you'd like to clear or if you have rooms that require extra attention, like the guest bedroom.
Most app-controlled robots offer various automated features that make routine maintenance more simple. Some robots have self-emptying bins, which return to their docks when they're full.
While the app-controlled Dreametech L10s Ultra did a excellent job at navigating our test courses, it struggled to see obstacles that were obstructing its path and was unable to handle clogged rug tassels. It's still an affordable and effective choice for keeping a studio or small homes tidy.
Cleaning Options
When the wheels of your robot become dirty or covered with dust, hair, or other debris they are unable to move smoothly, and could cause the robot to slow down or get stuck. Clean them regularly with a soft cloth, to ensure that they are functioning properly. For robots that mop also, it's important to take the mopping pads off after each cleaning session, clean them in water and let them dry before reinstalling them. If you're concerned about keeping up with this maintenance you should look for a machine that automatically cleans and dries its own mopping pads at each cleaning session.
Some robots can empty their trash bins automatically when they're full. This is a great feature for families with children or pets. For the majority of models, it is best to empty the bin manually to make sure that it is ready for a new load. Find a model with a large bin that is easy to remove and dump, and make sure the base can comfortably hold the full bin without causing obstruction in your home.
The quality of your robot's sensors can also affect its lifespan. These are the devices that sense furniture, walls, obstacles, and other household objects and assist the robot to navigate around them. Look for robots with high-quality sensors. They should be able to detect changes in the floor quickly and accurately, and avoid getting stuck in tight spaces like the nook between the bathtub and the toilet or under the legs of your desk chair.
It is worth investing in a robot that is able to charge itself and continue to clean where it left off if the battery gets depleted. This is particularly beneficial for homes with a lot of space and makes it easier to maintain consistent cleaning throughout the home.
Noise Levels
The noise level of robot vacuums is different for each model and is affected by other factors, too. Manufacturers may advertise a low-noise mode or a quiet operating speed. However, you will have to know the rating of the machine to know what this number really means. Anything above 85 decibels is considered to be loud and can cause hearing damage over time.
Make sure you choose models that utilize advanced noise reduction technology or have a low-noise option. These features will reduce noise levels and let you talk or sleep during cleaning.
Some models are also designed with sound-absorbing or insulated materials to reduce operational noise. These features are important for those who live in noisy environments or have children living at home.
The navigation system and obstacle detection capabilities of the robot vacuum cleaner are other factors that influence the level of noise. Some robots use the use of lasers or cameras to avoid hitting walls and furniture while cleaning. These technologies can also help reduce the amount of noise robotic cleaners make 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 lots of noise in normal operation. The sounds they produce can be distracting, particularly for those with small children or work at home. Furthermore, constant exposure to high-frequency noise is known to cause stress and raise blood pressure levels.
If you find your robot vacuum making a lot of noise, there are a few options you can try before calling the customer support of the manufacturer. Examine the machine for visible damages. A damaged or cracked housing or component can increase the sound level and cause it to sound like freight trains. It is also recommended to regularly clean and replace filters, as these can become blocked by dust and other debris which can increase the noise level.
Another common culprit for abnormal noise is a damaged or dirty sensor. Dirty or damaged sensors can send the robot vacuum in a tense, shaky journey across your floors, which will lead to hitting objects and creating the sound of a racket. If this happens, clean or replace the sensors and then reconnect to Wi-Fi, if necessary.