Robot Vacuum Reviews - How to Keep Your Robot Vacuum Clean
Many robot vacuums connect to apps that let you control the device hands-free. These apps can help you schedule cleaning sessions, define boundaries and define no-go zones.
A few of the robots we tested can be programmed to return to their base and recharge during a cleaning session which is beneficial when you have a huge house. Certain robots come with an water tank as well as dust bins which can be cleaned to ensure they are clean and reduce allergens.
Battery Life
If you have a large home, look for the best robot that can last for an hour or more during regular operation. Many models come with an "eco" mode or lower-power cleaning that can save battery life and does a fantastic job in removing dirt and debris.
If your home is a little smaller but you'll still have plenty of options to keep your home clean. Our top choice for small homes, the Neato Botvac 11S Max can be used on floors that are unfinished for up to 90 minutes in Eco mode. It's smaller than many of the robots we tested, so it can fit under furniture and into corners.
It's a smart choice to choose a model with intelligent features that allow you to customize the cleaning options of the robot based on how much traffic a particular area receives. You can create zones with a high amount of traffic to get stronger suction, or higher levels of water. Certain apps let you adjust settings by room or floor.
In addition to selecting a robot that meets your specific cleaning needs, 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 cleaning the water tank. It is also recommended to use the software updates provided by your manufacturer. These updates can help 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 could need to run your robot three to four 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 use it.
Some of the newer models, with more advanced features in our top robot vac reviews can connect to smart speakers like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant and operate hands-free. While this is a wonderful convenience, you should be aware that this means you will be required to give up some of your personal information.
App Control
Many robots have a variety of app control options that allow you to define specific cleaning tasks, 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 combination of sensors, cameras and lasers. They are designed to vacuum out pet hair dirt, sand and other debris on hard floors such as laminate, wood, tile and carpets with low pile and area rugs. They're also designed to stay clear of obstacles, like furniture legs and pet food bowls as they travel across your home.
As with any electronic device it is essential to keep up with the maintenance of your robot to ensure that it is operating correctly. As long as you adhere to the instructions of the manufacturer on how to operate and maintain your robot, you should replace the batteries as well as the filters and wheels, and clean the rotating brushes (they could get tangled with pet hair and dirt), most models will last as long as traditional full-size vacuums.
The majority of robots available on the market are capable of mapping and understanding your space with sensors, which can aid them in planning the most efficient route for each cleaning session. Some models that are more expensive permit you to define 'no-go zones' in case there are areas you want the robot to skip over like your pet's food bowls, or expensive carpets.
A lot of robots come with a feature called 'targeted room which allows you to control the robot's ability to clean a particular area of your house. This is a great option for homes with lots of clutter and you're looking to get rid of it, or if you feel that a certain room requires more attention, like a guest bedroom.
Most app-controlled robots offer a range of automated features that make maintenance simpler. Some robots come with self-emptying bins that return to their docks when they're full.
While the app-controlled Dreametech L10s Ultra did a great job of getting around our test courses but it struggled to spot obstacles that were blocking its path and was unable to handle clogged rug tassels. Despite this, it's an affordable and efficient choice for keeping a studio apartment or small home tidy.
Cleaning Options
If the wheels of your robot get grimy or caked in dust, hair or other particles, they are unable to move smoothly, and could cause the robot to slow down or even get stuck. Clean them up regularly with a soft, clean cloth, to ensure they are working well. For mopping robots, it's also important to take the mopping pads off after each cleaning session, clean them in water and allow them to dry before re-installing them. If you're concerned about maintaining this routine choose a model that is able to wash and dries its own mopping pads during every cleaning session.
Some robots are designed to automatically empty their trash bins when they are full, and this can be an absolute boon if you have children or pets. For most models, it is best to empty the trash bin manually to ensure that it is ready for the next load. Look for a model with large bins that are easy to remove and dump, and make sure the base is able to hold the entire bin without blocking your home.
The quality of the sensors on your robot could also impact its life span. They detect furniture, walls, and obstacles around your home and guide the robot around them. Choose a robot with 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 use 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 gets low. robot vacuum cleaner cheap is especially helpful for homes with larger spaces and makes it easier to keep a consistent clean throughout the house.
Noise Levels
Models differ in their noise levels and other factors may influence the sound quality. Manufacturers might mention a low-noise mode or a quiet operating speed. However, you will need to know the rating of the machine to know what this number actually signifies. In general, any sounds over 85 decibels are considered to be very loud and can damage hearing over time.
To find the most quiet robot vacuum, choose models that feature advanced noise reduction technology or a low-noise operating mode. These features can drastically reduce the operational noise and make it easier to carry on conversations or even rest during a cleaning session.
Certain models are also constructed with sound-absorbing or insulated materials to further reduce operational noise. These features are crucial for those who reside in a noisy location or have children at home.
The navigation system and obstacle detection capabilities of the robot vacuum cleaner are also factors that influence the noise levels. Certain robots utilize the use of lasers or cameras to prevent hitting furniture and walls while cleaning. These technologies also reduce the amount of noise robotic cleaners make during its cleaning cycle by eliminating unnecessary collisions and bumps.
While the latest robot vacuums are becoming much quieter, they still create significant amounts of noise in normal operation. The noise they create can be distracting for those who have children or work from home, particularly. Continuous exposure to high-frequency sounds is known to cause stress and can increase blood pressure.
If you find your robot vacuum producing lots of noise, there are a few things you can try before reaching out to the customer support of the manufacturer. First, check the machine for any visible damage. A cracked or loose component can increase the sound level, causing it to sound like freight train. It is also recommended to regularly clean and replace filters, since they can become filled with dust and dirt and increase the noise of operation.
Another common culprit for abnormal noise is a damaged or dirty sensor. Sensors that are dirty or damaged can send a robot vacuum on a shaky and confused traverse of your floors, which could result in it hitting objects and creating the sound of a racket. If this happens, you can clean or replace the sensors, and reconnect to your Wi-Fi, if needed.