i won't say love We currently use a robot vacuum cleaner, but we appreciate how it helps keep our home tidy and maintains an overall sense of cleanliness.
There are many advantages to owning a robot vacuum cleaner, but you should consider certain factors before purchasing one. In this article, we'll look at the biggest things you need to know when looking at digital catalogs and store shelves.
Also: Best Robot Vacuums of 2024: Expert Tests and Reviews
Knowing how to sift through all the marketing buzzwords and find the specs that really matter is what will ultimately determine whether or not a robot vacuum cleaner is worth buying. See below for three things to remember:
1) Find a robot vacuum cleaner with a LiDAR scanner
Compared to imaging-based detectors in low-cost vacuum cleaners, LiDAR has significant advantages in cleaning accuracy. LiDAR (or Light Detection and Ranging) technology improves the navigation capabilities of robotic vacuum cleaners, allowing them to create detailed 360-degree maps of floor plans and fixed obstacles.
Advanced sensors provide highly accurate distance measurements, enabling precise 3D mapping of the environment and localization of the robot's position. This allows the robot to efficiently navigate spaces, avoid furniture and plan an optimized cleaning path. LiDAR also helps the vacuum identify areas that have already been cleaned, preventing it from going over the same spot repeatedly.
Some LIDAR-equipped robot vacuums can store multi-level mapping data (up to five maps), making them ideal for homes with multiple floors or large living spaces. You can set up a virtual perimeter or “no-go zone” to do things like vacuum cables and wires from the floor under your home office desk.
Also: I found the most powerful robot vacuum on the market, and it's cheaper than you think.
And it's dark under the desk, right? Or perhaps in a walk-in closet? Unlike camera-based navigation, LiDAR is less affected by changing lighting conditions, ensuring stable performance even in low light. The LiDAR-equipped vacuum's comprehensive scanning mechanism provides impressive adaptability to complex cleaning patterns, as well as the ability to dynamically react to and avoid dropped items (such as toys or pet waste).
2) Always check if the brand you are buying from sells replacement parts.
before buying mine OKP Life K2, I wanted to make sure it was easy to maintain. Fortunately, there is only one part (HEPA filter) that can be replaced every few months. OKP also gave buyers the convenience of ordering replacement parts right from their smartphones by scanning the QR code on the filter chassis.
Replacement parts are available for purchase for many popular robot vacuums on the market. “Parts” means filters, main brushes, side brushes, mop heads, special batteries, etc. Some notable brands that offer replacement parts include: iRobot Roomba, Eufy RoboVac, Shark IQ Robotand Ecovac divot.
Filter replacement is especially important on robot vacuums for several reasons. First of all, it helps maintain optimal suction. A new (or clean) filter restores the vacuum's “deep breathing” feature and maintains strong suction throughout operation. It also helps prevent strain on the motor. A clogged filter means your vacuum cleaner's motor has to work twice as hard to generate suction, which increases wear and reduces its lifespan.
Also: Dreame X30 Ultra Review: ZDNET's New Top Pick for the Best 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum
Replacement filters also improve the air quality in your home. HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, removing allergens, pollutants and bacteria from the air. Dirty filters on robot vacuums can release trapped particles back into your living space. Relatedly, have you ever noticed that your vacuum cleaner starts to smell bad? If so, you're begging for a new filter.
In the long run, the habit of replacing parts regularly will save you money. Replacing the filter is much more cost-effective than repairing or replacing the entire vacuum cleaner. Some robot vacuum subscriptions, like iRobot Select, save you money over time by providing replacement filters, brushes, and bags.
3) I go into the purchasing process with the expectation that a robot vacuum cleaner won't clean the entire house.
Like any other tool, the main reason to own a robot vacuum cleaner is to reduce labor. Elbow grease is used for manual cleaning while robot vacuum cleaners are used for light tasks. Naturally, some models perform better than others. I turn mine on and let it roam (after leaving the dog outside). Since it doesn't have LiDAR, it circles around my apartment, wandering on its own tracks. But eventually, outdoor debris will be removed from the floor!
But no robot vacuum cleaner can clean baseboards or handle dirty spills. I found the following model: Neato Botvac D7 connected The D-shaped design allows it to clean corners and edges more effectively than many models. and Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra It offers an advanced mopping system. However, for stains or muddy foot prints that appeared a week ago, you may need to get down on your knees and scrub.
to summarize… LiDAR provides the most reliable navigation and cleaning, and preventative maintenance can extend the life of your robot vacuum cleaner (and prevent inconveniences). Please check availability of replacement parts before purchasing. But ultimately, don't expect any robot vacuum to replace the power of a four-person cleaning crew.