Robot Cleaners

The most popular form of robot cleaners are basically small vacuum cleaners and floor sweepers. These vary a lot in price, depending on the features and "intelligence" of the device.

There are a few obvious features to look out for:

• Scheduling API to allow it to run at a suitable time. Most allow manual scheduling via an app but few provide and API to allow your smart home to decide when is the best time for the cleaning cycle to start.
• Battery life and run time.
• Self-charging and a dock or charging station.
• Dust bin capacity.
• Zone controls and edge mapping stop the cleaner getting stuck.
• Complete coverage and room mapping to improve efficiency.
• Edge cleaning and corner cleaning capability.
• Automatic adjustment of cleaning height, to handle different surfaces.
• Automatic suction power control.
• Obstacle avoidance and obstacle handling.
• Reliable network connectivity.
• Easy to empty dust bin.
• Quiet in operation.

Other things to consider depending on your home environment:

• Low profile to get under furniture.
• Voice control and/or remote control via an app.
• Ability to handle pet hair and fur.
• Able to handle multiple surface types.
• Dirt and air filtering technology.
• Warranty.

Housing

Robot vaccum cleaners require a docking station in order to recharge. It can make sense to build this into a new build or have a utility room in which this can reside.