An autonomous cleaning robot performs well when the space and the operation support it. Before deciding, it's worth answering these five questions.
1. How many square metres need cleaning, and in how much time?
Performance is measured in square metres per hour under real conditions, including turns, obstacles and charging stops.
2. What is the floor like?
A continuous floor is not the same as one with joints, grilles or level changes. The type of floor determines the scrubbing system and water consumption.
3. Where does it fill and empty?
You need an accessible water point and drain, close to the work area and the charging point.
4. Who starts it up each day?
It's worth assigning a person responsible and a short start-up and check routine. Most incidents are avoided with two minutes of inspection.
5. What happens if it breaks down?
Ask about the support response time, spare-parts stock and exactly what the maintenance covers.