STACK #245 March 2025

ROBOT VACUUMS 101 continued

TECH FEATURE

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cleaning. Some models even adjust the suction automatically depending on the floor type. Battery life and charging Most models offer 60 to 120 minutes of runtime, which should be enough for small to medium-sized homes. Advanced vacuums return to their charging dock, recharge, and resume cleaning automatically. Navigation and mapping Basic models move randomly, while higher-end ones use laser or camera-based navigation to map your home and clean methodically. Smart mapping allows you to set no-go zones, schedule cleanings for specific rooms, and track cleaning progress via a phone app.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A ROBOT VACUUM Robot vacuum cleaners have become a game-changer in home cleaning, and if you’re thinking of welcoming one to the family home, here are some key things to consider.

Mopping Many modern robot vacuums offer mopping capabilities, so if you want an all-in-one floor cleaning solution, choose a model with an electronic water tank and adjustable water flow settings. Dustbin and filter system Larger dustbins mean less frequent emptying, and a HEPA filter is essential if you suffer from allergies or have pets. Some high-end models even come with self-emptying stations for ultimate convenience.

Make sure it suits your home If you have a small apartment then any robot vac will do the job, but if you reside in a mansion or multi-level residence, you’ll need a model that caters to more extensive surface areas. Note the size of gaps under beds and couches. Some robotic vacs have thinner profiles and can access these harder-to-reach areas easily. Consider your floor coverings – if you have thick rugs with tassels, for example, basic robotic vacs might get snagged. And if you own pets that shed hair all over the place, you’ll want to ensure that the model you choose is powerful enough to suck up errant strands.

Suction power and cleaning performance

Not all robot vacuums are created equal. If you have carpets or high-traffic areas, look for a model with strong suction power (measured in Pascals, or Pa). A good range is 2,000–4,000 Pa for deep

Smart features and app control Wi-Fi-enabled robot vacuums allow you to control them via smartphone apps or voice assistants like Alexa or Google. Features like scheduling, setting virtual boundaries, and live monitoring add to the convenience. Budget Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, so consider your cleaning needs to ensure good value for money.

28 MARCH 2025

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