Tips to find the perfect robot vacuum
If you’re a first time robot vacuum cleaner buyer, you might need some guidance before investing in your new domestic hero. Since there are dozens of different robovacs available on the market these days, you need to narrow down your search.
Function and type of flooring
First of all, you’ll have to make a choice between a dual function cleaner with vacuuming and mopping features, or a model with a vacuuming function only. Once you’ve determined this first important property, the next thing to do is take a good look around your home. Do you need a vacuum for tiled floors only? Or do you have hardwood floors covered with rugs or carpets? Do you have pets that shed a lot of hair? If the answer is yes to these last two questions, you know how frustrating it can be to have tufts of hair lying around or hair getting stuck in the carpet. In that case, you need a robovac with a more powerful motor that offers higher suction capacities. Take some time learning about the specifics of each model, and find out which one is best adapted to your home.
Budget
The next important thing to consider is the budget you are willing to spend. It’s worth noting that a more expensive hoover doesn’t necessarily mean a better hoover. There are plenty of very decent robovacs at the lower end of the price spectrum. You can already get a basic robovac for about $150 reaching up to more than $1000 for a top-notch model with a myriad of extra features, like self-emptying capacities or advanced mapping technology.
Mobile application and compatibility
Most robot vacuums can be monitored through a companion app on your smartphone. The most intelligent ones are even compatible with smart home appliances like Alexa or Google Home. This comes with a price of course. But you might be completely happy with a remote controlled appliance.
Another aspect that needs careful consideration is the navigation method. High-end robovacs use LiDar technology to map every nook and cranny of your home, thus ensuring a more methodical clean. While more budget-friendly options might use cameras, which translates into a more erratic cleaning routine. These models might find it harder to navigate obstacles.
Battery life
Battery life is important if you’re looking for a robovac that can tackle larger spaces. After all, you don’t want to come home to a half cleaned house. To avoid this frustration, some higher-end models are quite sophisticated and will automatically return to their charging base once their battery starts running low.
If you’re looking to use your robovac when you’re at home, you might want to opt for a less noisy model.
So to sum it up, there are quite a few aspects to look out for when getting a robovac. The good news is that there is a model for every particular need.