Robot Vacuum Reviews - How to Keep Your Robot Vacuum Clean
Many robot vacuums can connect to apps that allow you to control the device with no hands. These apps allow you to schedule cleaning sessions, and create boundaries and no-go zones.
Several of the robots we reviewed can automatically return to their base and recharge during a cleaning session, which is helpful if you have a large home. Some robots come with an water tank as well as a dust bin that can be empty to ensure they are clean and reduce allergens.
Battery Life
If you have a large home, you should consider the best robot that can last for an hour or more in normal operation. Many models also have an "eco" or lower-power cleaning option that saves battery life but still is capable of removing dirt and dust from floors and carpets.
You can still keep your place clean, even if it's less space. For instance, our top pick for homes with small spaces is the Neato Botvac 11S Max, is able to run for up to 60 minutes on bare floors in standard mode and up to 90 minutes when using Eco mode. It's smaller than the other robots that we tested and therefore is easier to slip under furniture and into corners.
It's a good idea pick a model with intelligent features that let you customize the cleaning preferences of your robot according to the amount of traffic certain areas get. You can set zones that receive a lot of traffic to have stronger suction or higher water levels. Certain apps let you alter settings based on floor or room.
Aside from choosing a smart robot that meets your specific cleaning requirements it is essential 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 water tank. It is also recommended to use the software updates that your manufacturer provides. These updates can help improve navigation algorithms and decrease unnecessary power consumption, extending the battery life of your robot.
Depending on the size of your family, you may require your robot to be running three to four times per week. Emily Rairdin, a vacuum expert at University Vacuum & Sewing, says that a standard robot should last between three and five years, however the longevity of yours will be contingent on how well you take care of it and how often you use it.
Some of the more advanced models we have reviewed in our top robot vacuum reviews are able to connect to smart speakers such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing them to operate completely hands-free. While this is a wonderful convenience, remember that you'll be required to give up certain personal information.
App Control
Many robots come with a variety of app control options that let you define specific cleaning tasks or preferences, as well as schedule sessions. Some also work with digital assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and other voice-controlled smart home systems for a completely hands-free experience.
Robots navigate by using a combination of sensors, cameras and lasers. They are designed to vacuum up pet hair dirt, sand and other debris on hard floors such as wood, tile, laminate, as well as carpets with low piles and area rugs. They're also designed to avoid obstacles like furniture legs or pet food bowls as they move around your home.
As with all electronic devices it is essential to keep up with your robot's maintenance to ensure it's operating efficiently. If you clean the rotating brushes regularly (they are prone to getting caught in pet hair and dust) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines on using and maintaining your robot. You should also replace the filters, batteries and wheels. Most models last the same amount of time as a traditional full-size vacuum.
Most robots are able to identify and understand your space with sensors. This allows them to design a more efficient cleaning route. Certain models with higher end features allow you to set 'no-go zones' if there are areas you would like the robot to avoid like your pet's food bowls or expensive rug.
A growing number of robots also come with 'targeted rooms', which lets you instruct the robot to concentrate on a specific or a few areas of your home. This is a great choice for homes with many clutter items and you want to get rid of it, or if a certain room requires more attention, for example, the guest bedroom.
The majority of robots controlled by apps offer various automated features that make daily maintenance more simple. For instance, some models have self-emptying bins which return to their docks and empty themselves automatically when they're full.
The app-controlled Dreametech L10s Ultra navigated our test course very well, however it was unable to spot obstacles in its way and was unable to handle rug tassels that were clogged. Despite this, it's an affordable and efficient choice to keep a studio or small home tidy.
Cleaning Options
When your robot vac's wheels get grimy or caked in hair, dust, or other debris they will not be smooth and cause the robot to slow down or even become stuck. Clean them up regularly with a soft cloth, to ensure that they are functioning well. It is essential for mopping robots to remove the pads after each cleaning. Wash them with water and let them dry before reinstalling them. If you're concerned about keeping up with this maintenance choose a model that is able to wash and dries its own mopping pads during each cleaning session.
Some robots can empty their dustbins automatically when they're full. This is a great feature if you have children or pets. However, for the majority of models, the best way to ensure that the dustbin is ready for an additional load of dirt or debris is to empty it manually. Choose a model that has an enormous bin, which is easy to take out and empty. Also, ensure that the base is able to hold the bin comfortably without being impervious.
Another factor that could influence the life span of your robot is the quality of its sensors. These sensors detect walls, furniture and obstacles around your home and direct the robot around them. Choose a robot with high-quality sensors that can quickly respond to changes in floor surfaces and are accurate enough to avoid being caught in tight spots like the nook between the bathtub and the toilet or under your desk chair legs.
Depending on the budget you have and how often you plan to utilize your robot, it's worth looking into a model that can recharge itself and begin cleaning from where it stopped off when the battery runs low. This is particularly useful for larger homes, and makes it easier to keep a consistent clean throughout the home.
Noise Levels
Models vary in the level of noise they emit and other variables can influence them. Manufacturers may advertise the option of a low-noise or quiet operating speed. However, you'll need to know the rating of the device to determine what this number really means. In general, any sounds over 85 decibels are considered to be very loud and can damage hearing 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 be able to talk or rest during cleaning.
Some models are designed with the use of sound-absorbing or insulated materials in order to reduce noise. These features are crucial for those who live in noisy environments or have children living at home.
Other factors that affect noise levels are the navigation system and obstacle detection capabilities of a robotic vacuum cleaner. Some robots employ laser or camera-based mapping technology to prevent hitting furniture and walls while cleaning. These technologies can also reduce the amount of noise robots generate during its cleaning cycle by eliminating unnecessary collisions and bumps.
Despite the fact that today's robot vacuums are quieter than ever however, they still generate lots of noise they are in operation. The noise they create can be distracting, especially for those who have small children or work from home. Continuous exposure to high-frequency sounds is known to trigger stress and can increase blood pressure.
You might want to try a few different things before calling the customer service of your robot vacuum if you notice that it is making a lot of noise. Look over the machine for obvious damage. A cracked housing or a loose component can increase the noise which can make it sound like a freight-train. Make good robot vacuum to clean and replace filters regularly as they can become filled with dirt and debris, which can make the noise more intense.
A sensor that is damaged or dirty could also be the source of noise that isn't normal. Sensors that are damaged or dirty can send robot vacuums in a tense, shaky travel across your floors which could result in it bumping into objects and making the sound of a racket. To fix this clean or replace the sensor, and try reconnecting to Wi-Fi if necessary.