Robot Vacuum Reviews - How to Keep Your Robot Vacuum Clean
Many robot vacuums can be used with apps that allow you to control the device without having to hold it. These apps can 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 house. Certain robots come with water tanks and a dust bin which can be cleaned to keep them clean and reduce allergens.
Battery Life
If you have a big house, consider a robotic that can run for an hour during normal operation. Many models come with an "eco" mode or low-power cleaning that saves battery life while still doing a great job in getting rid of dirt and other debris.
You can still keep your home clean even if you have less space. Our top pick for small houses, 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 the majority of the robots we tested so it can fit under furniture and into corners.
It's a smart idea to select a robot with smart features, which allow you to customize the cleaning options of the robot based on how much traffic a particular area receives. You can set zones with high traffic to have more suction and higher water levels, for example. Some apps offer the option to change settings per room or even floor of your house.
In addition to choosing the right robot that is suited to your cleaning needs, you should also perform regular maintenance, like emptying and refilling the dustbin, checking brushes for hair knots, and cleaning and draining the tank of water. It's also recommended to make use of the software updates provided by the manufacturer. These can improve navigation algorithms, reduce unnecessary power consumption, and help your robot extend its battery life.
Depending on the level of activity in your family depending on how busy your family is, it could be required to run your robot three or four times per week. Emily Rairdin, a vacuum expert at University Vacuum & Sewing, states that a typical robot will last between three to five years, but the lifespan of yours will be contingent on how well you take care of it and how often you use it.
Some of the more sophisticated models that we have reviewed in our top robot vacuum reviews can be connected to smart speakers like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant that allow them to work completely hands-free. This is a fantastic option, but you'll need to provide some personal data.
App Control
Many robots come with a wide variety of app control options that allow you to define specific cleaning tasks, change preferences and schedule sessions. Certain robots also integrate with digital assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other voice-controlled home systems.
Robots make use of a combination of sensors, lasers and cameras to navigate your space. They are designed to sweep out pet hair dirt, sand and other debris on floors made of hard materials like wood, tile, laminate, as well as low-pile carpets and area rug. They're also designed to stay clear of obstacles such as furniture legs or pet food bowls when they move around your home.
As with all electronic devices it's essential to keep up with the routine maintenance of your robot to ensure it's operating properly. As long as you follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to use and maintain your robot, you should replace the batteries, filters and wheels and clean the rotating brushes (they could get tangled with dirt and pet hair) The majority of models will last longer than traditional full-size vacuums.
Most robots can map and learn the space around you using sensors. This allows them to design the most efficient route to clean. Certain models let you set 'no go zones' for areas that you don't want the robot to clean, like pet food bowls as well as expensive rug.
A lot of robots come with a feature called 'targeted room that lets you control the robot's ability to clean a specific area of your house. This is a great option when you have lots of clutter you'd like to get rid of or if you've got rooms that require extra attention, such as the guest bedroom.
In addition to the ability to modify the robot's map and cleaning preferences, the majority of app-controlled robots also offer various automated features that can simplify maintenance. Some robots have self-emptying bins, which return to their docks once they're 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 way and couldn't handle clogged up rug tassels. Despite this, it's an affordable and effective choice to keep a studio or small home 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 may cause it to slow down or even become stuck. Wipe them down periodically with a soft cloth, to keep them working well. For robots that mop, it's also important to take the mopping pads off after every cleaning session, then wash them in water and let them dry before reinstalling them. If you're concerned about keeping up with this maintenance opt for a model that automatically washes and dry the mopping pads after each cleaning session.
Some robots are able to automatically empty their bins once they are full and can be a real boon when you have pets or children. For the majority of models, it is best to empty the dustbin manually to ensure that it is ready to receive the next load. Choose a model that has a large bin that is easy to empty and remove and ensure that the base can comfortably hold the full bin without being obstructive in your home.
The quality of your robot's sensors can also affect its lifespan. These are the devices which detect furniture, walls and other items in your home, and help the robot navigate around them. Choose robots that have high-end sensors. They are expected to be able detect changes in the floor surface quickly and accurately, and avoid getting stuck in tight spaces such as the nook in between the bathtub and the toilet or under the legs of your desk chair.
Depending on the budget you have and how often you want to make use of your robot, it's also worth looking into a model that can recharge itself and begin cleaning where it left off when the battery runs low. This is particularly useful for homes with larger spaces, and helps keep a consistent clean throughout the home.
Noise Levels
The models vary in their noise levels, and other factors can also affect them. Some manufacturers may offer a quiet mode or low-noise operating speed, but you'll need to know how the device is rated to understand what these numbers mean. Any sound above 85 decibels is considered to be high and can cause hearing damage over the course of time.
Look for models that use advanced noise reduction technology or have a low-noise mode. These features can significantly lower the operational noise, making it easier to maintain a conversation or even rest during a cleaning session.
Some models are also built with sound-absorbing or insulated materials to further decrease the operational noise. These features are essential for those who live in noisy environments or have children at home.
Other factors that influence the level of noise are the navigation system and the obstacle detection capabilities of a robotic vacuum cleaner. Some robots employ the use of lasers or cameras to avoid bumping into furniture or walls while cleaning. These technologies also reduce the amount of noise robots generate during the cleaning process by making sure that there are no unnecessary collisions or bumps.
Despite robot vacuums reviews that modern robotic vacuums are more quiet than ever but they still make a lot of noise when they are in operation. The noise they generate can be distracting, particularly for those who have small children or work at home. Additionally, continuous exposure to high-frequency noise is known to create stress and increase blood pressure levels.
You might want to try a few different things before calling the customer service of your robot vacuum if you notice it is making a lot noise. First, you should check the machine for obvious damage. A cracked or loose component can increase the sound level making it sound like freight train. It is also recommended to regularly clean and replace filters, because they can get blocked by dust and other debris which can increase the noise level.
A sensor that is dirty or damaged could also be the source of noise that isn't normal. Sensors that are dirty or damaged can send robot vacuums in a tense, shaky traverse of your floors, which can result in hitting objects and causing a racket. If this happens, clean or replace the sensors and then reconnect to Wi-Fi, if necessary.