How long do owners say robot vacuums typically last?

Robot vacuums are all the rage right now, and it’s easy to see why. After all, what’s not to love about an automated device that cleans your floors while you relax? If you’re looking to get a new robot vacuum and want to know how long these devices last, the consensus among users is that you’ll likely use the vacuum for between three and five years. That’s pretty impressive, especially considering how cheap it is possible to get robot vacuums these days.

However, the average figures only represent part of the whole picture, as it is always possible to encounter failures. One Reddit user saw their robot friend fail before the 10-month mark, while another reported that theirs barely reached 18 months. On the other end of the spectrum, some seem indestructible. One Reddit user claims his Samsung Navibot survived for over 10 years until the brush motor gave out, while another user said he owned a Roomba with a similar lifespan. However, the latter reported that the Roomba underwent four battery replacements and a new bumper sensor during that time.

The key factor to consider when worrying about the longevity of the robot vacuum cleaner is maintenance. There are countless mistakes made by robot vacuum owners that can destroy their devices. For example, even if you have one with self-cleaning features, you will need to do some hands-on maintenance. Reddit user Maidenmaan reports that he’s owned several units over the years, confirming that three to five years is a realistic expectation, provided you do some basic care. He also noted that you should expect to change the battery at some point.

Others echoed a similar sentiment. For example, one Reddit user claimed that he was still using his Roomba after nine years, but had replaced the battery and brushes. As a proud owner of a device that has had an above-average lifespan, the user said the trick is to clean the brushes every month to avoid wearing out the motor. Always consider parts availability when looking for an affordable robot vacuum that will last a long time. Some models like the Roomba j7+ remain very popular (and are relatively affordable at around $340), with one user noting that replacement parts are readily available. You can also find replacement brushes and other accessories for discontinued models like the Roomba 700 on Amazon for $20, which might influence your decision about what type of vacuum you buy.

In addition to finding the best time to operate your robot vacuum, you will need to perform basic maintenance from time to time. Brushes and filters, for example, require special attention because they quickly become dirty and accumulate debris such as hair. Also extend this practice to the wheels, as this is where you will often see hair getting tangled. To prevent the robot from hitting furniture, occasionally clean the sensor thoroughly.

Ask yourself if you are making the device’s job much more difficult than it needs to be. To begin, remove any obstacles, such as toys and large debris, in its path, as a collision with these objects could damage its components. After a while, replace some moving parts like brushes and mops, and your device will have a better chance of matching the lifespan that robot vacuum owners consider average.