Robot vacuum cleaners are one of the greatest and the most innovative technology when it comes to cleaning.
Compared to traditional upright & stick vacuum cleaners (that still do a decent job), not only that robot vacuums are much easier to use, but they also guarantee better cleaning efficiency.
However, as with probably every technologically advanced device, people often wonder how long it can last.
Luckily, I have a lot of experience regarding robot vacs and I have the answer to this frequently asked question.
Apart from that answer, I will also share some very useful tips for preserving robotic vacuum cleaners and expanding their life span.
“Typically, a well-maintained robot vacuum can last between 4-6 years, but it’s not unheard of for some to go beyond that marker. The lifespan heavily depends on how well the owner maintains their device and how often it is used. Regular cleaning of brushes, filters, and sensors, along with appropriate handling, can substantially extend its life. As an engineer, my designs focus on improving robustness and sustainability but remember – prolonged life comes from excellent care and regular maintenance.”
Bennett Jernigan, Robotic Vacuum Engineer
How Long Do Robot Vacuums Last?
Robot Vacuums last between five and eight years. Maintenance should be performed every month in order to extend the lifespan of the device.
Just like any other device, robot vacuum cleaners sometimes stop working for no obvious reason. However, as long as it has a warranty, you’re fine.
Nevertheless, gone are the days these awkward machines sporadically bounced around your home breaking down more often than desired.
However, the life span of these machines have greatly improved, and rival those of traditional vacuum cleaners. According to research and several case studies [R], a robot vacuum cleaner usually last between 5 and 8 years. However, this figure will depend on proper and regular maintenance of your machine.
Of course, as with many devices, the more expensive the robot vacuum cleaner you opt for, the longer will it last… and it’s not only because of the price.
Brands that cost more often offer replacement brushes and batteries and these replacement parts can significantly extend the machine’s life span. For example the Roomba i7+ is currently listed at $950 dollars.
Those are the robotic vacuum cleaners that, according to the above-mentioned research, should last approximately 8 years.
On the other hand, the cheapest and thus the least quality model is the most affordable robot vacuum, but is likely going to last more or less 5 years.
Finally, important factors that significantly affect robot vacuums’ life span are how much cleaning it does and do you maintain it well.
Keep in mind that robot vacuum cleaners are not supposed to be used for heavily soiled floors. This kind of vacuum cleaner have limited options for the filters, sometimes water filter vacuum cleaners are better option.
Logically, if you use a robotic vacuum cleaner more often, it will probably last shorter since it’s normal that a device gradually deteriorates. It is recommended to use it only 4 or 5 days a week if possible.
A robot vacuum is not a replacement of your regular cleaning routine, which you should do at least twice per week. And if you don’t maintain it well, you cannot expect that it lasts long.
Speaking of proper maintenance, we can now move on to the next sub-topic in which I will share some helpful tips for robotic vacuum cleaners maintenance with you.
Tips for Preserving Robot Vacuums and Expanding Their Life Span
As technology advances, each new device is more and more independent and almost doesn’t need human control and contact.
That’s the case with new vacuum cleaners as well.
Some top-notch models have Wi-Fi and can be controlled from a mobile phone (using Google Assistant or Alexa), some can be controlled by voice commands, and few models can even empty the dustbins on their own.
However, if you think you don’t need to do anything regarding the maintenance of the device, think again!
Although all these advanced features are pretty awesome, you still have to take care of your robot vacuum cleaner if you want it to last. This includes the following tips:
- Often emptying the dustbin
- Regularly cleaning the brush roll
- Regularly cleaning the machine’s filter
- Properly charging / discharging of battery
Let us expand on these tips below to help you extend the life span of your robotic machine.
1. Empty the dustbin as often as you can
Emptying the dust bin is one of the crucial things. If possible, you should empty the dustbin after each cleaning session, or at least once in two cleanings, depending on the size of your apartment or house, or specific rooms you are cleaning.
The overfilled dustbin can not only have a detrimental effect on the robotic vacuum cleaner itself but also on the air in the room. Namely, too much dust in the robotic vacuum can damage its inside parts and its motor.
Additionally, if the dustbin is overfilled the dust and bacteria particles will go back into the room, and thus you’ll practically breathe in that dust. You should disinfect your device every 3 months.
Finally, even if you have that extremely smart robotic vacuum cleaner that can empty the dustbin on its own, still check it out every once in a while just to make sure that the emptying system hasn’t stopped working.
2. Remember to clean the brush
Robot vacuum’s brush roll tends to get tangled in all sorts of fiber, pet hair, or human hair that can be found on the floor or carpet.
Although these things do not look too harmful, they can severely damage the robotic vacuum cleaner and shorten its life span, as you will be putting strain on the motor.
Hence, clean the brush with compressed air and one cup of water with 1/4 cup of vinegar, and remove carpet fibers and hair occasionally is vital and you can do that using your hand or scissors. However, be careful not to damage the vacuum’s bristles while cleaning the brush, as this will effect the machine’s ability of picking up debris.
Having an extra brush for your robotic vacuum would be ideal since brush replacement would be available once it becomes too used up.
3. Make sure you clean the vacuum’s filter on a regular basis
Most robotic vacuum cleaners come with washable and reusable filters. The filter is possibly the most important part of a robot vacuum since it prevents the dust and dirt both to damage the motor as well as to go back into the air you breathe.
That’s why the filter should be cleaned every 3 to 4 weeks. If not, the vacuum’s airflow could clog, and then both the vacuum and the air in the room would be at risk.
Keep in mind that the filter is supposed to be cleaned just by tapping it or shaking it off.
Do not wash the filter and don’t use any liquid while cleaning it since the robot vacuum mustn’t get in contact with any liquid whatsoever.
Otherwise, its motor would be severely damaged.
Lifespan is not an issue
If you are wondering whether a robot vacuum cleaner is worth it, read this text and you will certainly agree with me that it is. But in some cases, you will still need a hardwood floor machine for deeper cleaning.
Just make sure you maintain it properly every month, clean the brush and the filter, and empty the dustbin regularly and your robot vacuum will last more than five years and make your life easier.
To get more detailed information about this topic, read the text and I guarantee you that you’ll find it very helpful.
References
https://edition.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/reviews/best-robot-mop
https://mrgadget.com.au/pros-and-cons-of-using-a-robot-vacuum/
My first robovac only lasted for 18 months before it conked out but I found its internal design fascinating while I was attempting to repair it.
From my experience, the longevity of your robovac largely depends on how well you perform regular maintenance on it; just clearing out the dustbin and cleaning the brushes can significantly extend its life.
As a robotic engineer, I’ve inspected numerous robot vacuums and can say that maintenance truly plays a vital role in their longevity. From my practical understanding, occasional replacement of certain components like filters, brushes, or batteries can certainly enhance the lifespan substantially. It’s also essential to keep the sensors clean to ensure optimal performance. Improper handling or lack of routine maintenance can inevitably lead to swift depreciation of these devices.
From my experience working at an electronics store, it is amazing how long some robot vacuums can last when treated right. I’ve seen customers come back after years of purchase still satisfied with their units running smoothly. As Xavier said, the proper maintenance and gentle handling truly payoff extending the life of these cleaning wonders.
I concur with Hermione, my oldest robot vacuum, a first-generation Roomba, is still operational after almost ten years! Regular cleaning and routine checks can indeed prolong their lives significantly.
My RoboVac 30C has been my trusty companion for the last five years and it hasn’t lost suction or cleaning efficiency yet – maintenance is indeed key.