Automatic Vacuum Cleaners

The iRobot Roomba leads the industry in robotic or automatic vacuum cleaners, although other companies have also begun to generate and market robotic vacuum models as well. These models can be pricier than many manual vacuum models with comparable power because of the sheer convenience of their use. Not only do they clean the floor with no effort by the user except for a simple programming step, they can also be instructed to operate at a specific time, such as when the user is not home.

Robotic vacuum cleaners are cordless and operate on a rechargeable battery which is recharged when not in use by attachment to a home base. Newer models can home to the base at the end of cleaning and thus are self-charging as well as largely self-operating. These models of vacuum cleaner feature a contact bumper that alerts the unit to contact with furniture or walls. In addition, an infrared signal and sensor prevent the device from falling from ledges, and enable the user to restrict its movement within a desired area. Dirt picked up by a robotic vacuum cleaner is trapped in a bin within the robot. Earlier models required manual emptying by the user after the vacuum had completed its cycles, but newer models are able to empty their dirt bins upon docking to their home bases.

Perhaps the biggest disadvantage to robotic vacuum cleaners is their lack of cleaning power. While they are effective on hard floors and thinner carpets, these models are not designed for use in thick or shaggy carpeting. Their roller brushes can become entangled with longer carpet or rug fibers and they do not have the suction power of other vacuum cleaner models for cleaning thicker carpets or rugs.

Related Information

Canister Vacuum Cleaners
Canister vacuum cleaners are great for both carpets and bare floors.

Cordless Vacuum Cleaners
Cordless vacuum cleaners help reduce cleaning time.