How to Choose a Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

Robotic vacuum cleaners come with or without navigation. Models without navigation are cheaper and move around the room randomly, or according to a algorithm, and cannot avoid obstacles. As a result, these models are not as effective in covering the whole cleaning area (about 70%).

Models with navigation are guided using modern technology such as CCTV, GPS or lasers. This allows for more effective coverage of the cleaning area (up to 98%).

The volume of a container determines how often it needs to be emptied. A larger volume is particularly useful if you have pets, as animal hair can fill up a small container very quickly.

Robotic vacuum cleaners are either powered by Ni-MH or Li-on batteries. Ni-MH batteries are the older type, and their main disadvantage is that they suffer from the so-called memory effect, whereby the battery loses capacity over time. To mitigate this, it is important once in a while (at least every 3 months) to let the battery completely drain before fully recharging it.

Modern Li-on batteries, on the other hand, do not suffer from memory effect. On the contrary, it is undesirable to let them drain discharge. However, these batteries have a limited number of charge cycles (300-500) before they need replacing.

However, the most important factor is a battery's capacity, which directly affects how much cleaning you can do on one charge.

The ratio betweem charging time and battery life is an important factor when choosing a robotic vacuum cleaner.

The quality of the filtration affects the overall efficiency of the vacuum. Vacuum cleaners often use multi-stage filtration system.

Robotic vacuum cleaners use a two-stage filtration system:

1st stage: input filter

This is a filter between the motor and the bag. These filters tend to be made of foam and are used primarily to protect the engine from dust. It is necessary to regularly check and change the input filter.

2nd stage: output filter

Output filters are the most important as they ensure that the exhaust air is clean. You can choose between micro-filters (fabric) or HEPA filters, which currently provide the most effective filtration. HEPA filters are divided according to their efficiency in a range from 10 (85% efficiency) to 13 (99.9%). For those suffering from severe allergies or asthma, we recommend H12 and H13 HEPA filters.

Filters should be cleaned periodically, or replaced when they start to clog.

Robotic vacuum cleaners come with a range of useful functions and features, such as automatic return to the docking station or a full-container indicator.

In terms of equipment, pay attention to the type of rotary brush that comes with the vacuum cleaner. Furthermore, robotic vacuum cleaners should have at least one side brush, which helps it reach dirt in corners and by walls.

In addition to navigation, a virtual wall helps you to designate the specific area where the robot will clean.

Allergy sufferers should look for a model with a UV lamp, which helps destroy dust mites, bacteria, and other microorganisms.