Comparison Dreame L20 Ultra Complete vs Rowenta X-Force Flex 12.60 Aqua RH 98C0 WO

General type of vacuum cleaner.

The general design and application features of the unit depend on this parameter. In addition to classic household models, the following types of vacuum cleaners are also produced nowadays: robotic vacuum cleaners, vertical(regular and vertical with portable), robot floor polishers, electric mops, electric brooms, household, manual models for household(including for bed and car purposes) and industrial use, full-size industrial (also known as construction), backpack and vacuum cleaners for fireplaces. Here is a more detailed description of each variety:

– Standard. Traditional household vacuum cleaners designed for cleaning apartments, residential buildings, small offices, etc. This unit consists of a relatively small body on characteristic wheels (for ease of movement across the floor) and a pipe with a brush connected to the...body using a flexible hose. This option is worth paying attention to if you need a “regular home vacuum cleaner” that is not designed to perform any specific tasks.

— Robot vacuum cleaner. Vacuum cleaners that work completely autonomously, without the need to control the device; The user's role is limited to only auxiliary tasks (unloading collected garbage, programming work, etc.). A robot vacuum cleaner usually comes in the form of a distinctive flat disc; its low height allows it to pass under furniture and other interior items. But specific work opportunities may vary. Thus, the simplest models move along random trajectories within a room, avoiding small obstacles and turning around when they reach walls or other large obstacles. More advanced devices may provide the ability to set “geography” and/or cleaning schedule, access to the unit via the Internet, etc. (see “Additional operating modes”, “Robot functions”). However, in any case, it is worth considering that robots do not differ in power and capacity; so it is hardly worth choosing such a device if you require high cleaning efficiency or expect large amounts of work. On the other hand, such equipment is ideal for maintaining already cleanliness in apartments, private houses and other similar conditions: a robot vacuum cleaner can be started at least every day without any special difficulties.

— Vertical. Vacuum cleaners of this type have a specific layout: the motor, dust collector and brush are mounted on a common vertical tube (hence the name), but as a rule, there is no hose in the design. Such units are designed primarily for domestic use; They're not great for cleaning hard-to-reach places (like under sofas or beds), but they do work well in large open spaces. In light of this, upright vacuum cleaners are quite popular, in particular in large offices and private homes. And some similar units are equipped with pipes of a hinged design (see “Pipe Type”), which simplify cleaning in the hard-to-reach places mentioned above.

— Manual (household). Handheld vacuum cleaners for household use are distinguished by their light weight, compact size and one-piece design: the motor, dust collector and suction nozzle (on which the brush can be placed) are combined in one body. Such units are not very powerful, but they are extremely mobile; in addition, they most often use batteries as a source of energy (see “Power”), which gives even greater freedom of movement. One of the most popular ways to use hand-held household vacuum cleaners is to clean the inside of a car; For this purpose, some models can be equipped with power from the cigarette lighter (either as an additional option or as the only source of energy). As for everyday use, such units are not suitable for full cleaning in an apartment/house/office, but they cope well with auxiliary, specific tasks: cleaning furniture and various small surfaces, collecting small debris in hard-to-reach places, etc.

— Manual (for bed). A type of hand-held vacuum cleaner designed for cleaning beds, upholstered furniture, mattresses, pillows, etc. The main feature of such units is their expanded capabilities for disinfection and control of parasites, primarily dust mites. Thus, an almost mandatory element of equipment for bed vacuum cleaners is a UV lamp (see below), and their suction systems and operating format are designed to effectively suck in dust mites - even tech “buried” to a considerable depth. If necessary, devices of this type can be used for more traditional cleaning, but their main purpose is to clean furniture and bedding.

— Manual (industrial). A type of industrial vacuum cleaner that does not have wheels and is designed to be carried from place to place by hand. It is worth saying that, for the most part, such units bear little resemblance to manual models for household use (see above) - they are more likely to resemble ordinary vacuum cleaners with a hose, without wheels and designed to be transported in the hands or on a shoulder strap (although there are exceptions). Power is usually supplied from a battery; Some models may also provide the ability to operate from the network. As a result, vacuum cleaners of this type are noticeably inferior in power to classic industrial models (also see above). On the other hand, they are more mobile - also due to their independence from sockets - and at the same time they are quite capable of coping with coarse construction and “industrial” waste.

– Vertical with portable. Models that combine the capabilities of vertical and manual household vacuum cleaners (see above). The traditional design of such a vacuum cleaner is a hand-held unit with a motor, dust collector and nozzle, complemented by either a removable vertical rod or an extension pipe. This design allows you to choose the format of work at your discretion and use one vacuum cleaner both for general cleaning (in a vertical format) and for small specific tasks (in a portable format). The main disadvantage of this option is the smaller capacity than that of vertical and conventional household vacuum cleaners - this somewhat complicates the use for large-scale cleaning. However, due to their versatility, devices from this category are now much more popular than purely vertical units.

– Robot floor polisher. Devices for wet cleaning of non-carpeted floors. Such units require a minimum of effort from the user - usually it is only necessary to periodically add detergent and clean a special napkin for wiping floor coverings after the end of the process. Robot floor polishers move independently across the floor, change direction when encountering obstacles, and build a route in such a way that, if possible, they process the entire area in the work area. Many models are capable of independently returning to the docking station to charge the battery, and to increase the convenience and efficiency of operation, various additional functions can be provided: work on a schedule, mapping, IR barriers to limit movements, etc. Robotic units for wet cleaning are excellent for “on-duty” maintenance of order in relatively clean numbers.

– Electric mop. Devices for wet cleaning of floor coverings, which are a modern version of a mop with an electric motor. The engine in their design is assigned various tasks such as vibration or rotation of the cleaning head to ensure more thorough cleaning. Many models of electric mops have a built-in tank for water or detergent, which makes it possible to spray liquid on the floor during the wet cleaning procedure. As for working attachments, most often such mops are equipped with a floor polisher or an electric turbo brush (see “Attachments and their functions”).

– Electric broom. Electrically powered sweepers that drive brushes or suction mechanisms to collect debris. Rotating brushes in the design of electric brooms effectively sweep up debris and direct it into a special dust container. Such devices are suitable for quick, everyday cleaning of floor coverings - they are lightweight, maneuverable and powered by a built-in cordless battery.

– Household. Vacuum cleaners designed for professional cleaning of large volumes. Such units are popular in cleaning companies, but they can also be useful for private use. Typical examples of the use of economic models are cleaning a home workshop or garage, hotel numbers, etc. The layout of vacuum cleaners of this type resembles traditional models - a body with a pipe on a hose - but they have a number of differences. The most noticeable of them are the large dimensions and the vertical layout of the hull with an overhead engine. In addition, household models are distinguished by high power and capacity (from 6 liters or more). They may provide wet cleaning, although most models only work in the traditional dry format (see "Cleaning").

— Industrial (construction). Vacuum cleaners designed for cleaning industrial facilities - construction sites, factory floors, etc. They are in many ways similar to the household ones described above: most models have an elongated body with a top-mounted engine, high power and large capacity. The main difference is that industrial units are designed for coarse construction waste, which more “delicate” types of vacuum cleaners cannot handle. And to collect such waste in such units, containers in the form of rigid containers are used; such containers can be supplemented with paper bags for ease of unloading, but this is not strictly necessary. Also in this variety, the water collection function is very popular (see below), although industrial vacuum cleaners are never made to be detergent and most often do not even provide for wet cleaning. In addition, only bags are used as dust collectors - aqua filters and “cyclones” are, in principle, not found in such units.
Please note that this category includes only industrial vacuum cleaners of a classic design that are moved on wheels. Handheld and backpack models are placed in separate categories (see below).

– Backpack. Vacuum cleaners carried on the back like a backpack - hence the name. This design combines the advantages of classic and manual format vacuum cleaners: the unit can be made quite powerful, spacious and at the same time mobile. True, most models of this type operate from the mains; battery solutions are less common; however, even when powered from a wall outlet, you can achieve good freedom of movement. This makes backpack vacuum cleaners well suited for situations where flow Rate and mobility are needed at the same time; A typical example is cleaning the cinema hall between screenings. The main disadvantage of this variety is its rather high cost, due to a number of design features.

– For fireplaces. Specialized vacuum cleaners designed for collecting coals and ash in fireplaces, stoves, barbecues, charcoal grills, etc. One of the key features of units of this type is resistance to high temperatures, which allows you to collect even coals and ash that have not completely cooled down. For this purpose, the hoses and brushes of fireplace vacuum cleaners are made of non-flammable, refractory polymers, and a metal container is usually used as the main container. In addition, the filters in such models are characterized by increased efficiency and resistance to fine dust; For added convenience, the filter may also be self-cleaning (see below). It is worth considering that vacuum cleaners from this category are mostly quite expensive; therefore, it makes sense to buy such equipment only in cases where you often have to deal with cleaning fireplaces - for example, if the fireplace is installed in a restaurant or hotel lobby and is used every day “during the season.”

The suction power provided by the vacuum cleaner. For models with power adjustment (see below), in this case, the maximum value is taken into account. Note that "suction power" is sometimes erroneously also called the suction force, indicated in pascals; see below for more details.

Suction power is a key indicator that determines the capabilities of the unit: the higher it is, the more efficiently the vacuum cleaner can draw in various contaminants, and the better it handles with carpets, fabrics and other materials into which dust can penetrate deeply. On the other hand, high power inevitably affects the weight, power consumption, dimensions and price of the device. Therefore, it does not always make sense to chase the maximum values — you need to take into account the real working conditions and the general purpose of the vacuum cleaner.

The specific numbers found in this paragraph largely depend on the type of device. For example, in handheld household models, suction power does not exceed 100 W, and for conventional household units, an indicator of 100 – 150 W is still considered very limited. At the same time, we note that the minimum required for a full-fledged dry cleaning of smooth floors is considered to be 300 – 350 W, for carpet and other short pile coatings — 350 – 400 W, and for long pile materials and upholstered furniture higher rates are desirable. Vacuum cleaners with lower suction power values are intended not so much for periodic cleaning, but for constant (ideally daily) maintenance of cleanliness in an already tidy room.

As for the relationship between suction power and suction force, it is as follows: power is the suction force (thrust) multiplied by the airflow (performance). Without going into too much detail, we can say that the efficiency of the vacuum cleaner is determined by both of these indicators. And it is worth evaluating this efficiency by suction power (regardless of the specific relationship between traction and performance).

The suction force provided by the vacuum cleaner. It is indicated by the maximum vacuum (negative pressure) that the unit can create at the working nozzle.

Note that this parameter is sometimes confused with the suction power described above, which is indicated in watts. Yes, suction force to some extent determines the efficiency of the unit. However, this efficiency also depends on the performance (airflow). And the suction power, indicated in watts, takes into account both of these parameters — it is determined by multiplying the suction force by the performance (see above for more details). For this reason, there is no strict relationship between this force and suction power: for example, a vacuum of 25,000 Pa can be found in models with 250 W, 200 W and even 150 W of power.

As for the practical significance of this spec, in general, a higher suction force allows you to work more efficiently with high resistance. For example, when processing carpets with a long pile. On the other hand, more pascals (with the same number of watts) means less airflow and, accordingly, less efficiency for large amounts of work at low resistance (for example, cleaning large rooms with parquet floors). Thus, it makes sense to pay attention to this indicator mainly in cases where high suction force is fundamental for you. In other cases, it is worth evaluating the capabilities of the vacuum cleaner in terms of suction power in watts.

Note that for a number of...reasons, the suction power is most often specified for robot vacuum cleaners (see “Produc type”). For such models, a value of 1500 Pa and below is considered very small, 1500 – 2000 Pa — medium, 2000 – 2500 Pa — high, more than 2500 Pa — very high.

It is also worth mentioning that the indication of suction force is often used as a publicity trick — to improve the impression of the product. For example, the suction power of 150 watts in itself is quite modest. But at the same time, the suction force of such a vacuum cleaner can be 25,000 Pa — a very impressive figure, especially for an inexperienced buyer, but having a very indirect relation to real efficiency. Especially often, such tricks are used among upright models and the already mentioned robots — these varieties initially do not differ in high power in watts. For many of these units, the characteristics only indicate the vacuum in pascals without specifying the suction power. It further enhances the impression: for example, in the specs of a modest robot, the figure "3000 Pa" looks much more impressive than "40 W". However, such figures have a very weak relation to the real capabilities of the unit and if they are not supplemented by data on suction power in watts, they should be considered solely as bait for a not particularly sophisticated buyer.

The nominal volume of the dust collector installed in the vacuum cleaner.

This indicator largely depends on the type of unit (see above). For example, in most handheld household models, the capacity does not exceed 0.5 L. The volume of the container in upright vacuum cleaners and robots can be somewhat larger — among the first variety there are quite a few models for 1 – 2 liters or even more, and among the second — by 0.6 – 1 liter and a little more. For conventional vacuum cleaners, the minimum figure is actually about 0.8 – 1 L; dust collectors for 1 – 2 L and 2 – 4 L are very popular in such devices; the maximum capacity is actually 4 – 6 liters — units of a similar layout, but with a larger capacity, are usually referred to as household ones. In turn, relatively small containers are occasionally found among workshop models. However, in vacuum cleaners of this type, the capacity is generally quite large — it can reach 26 – 50 liters or even more ; the same applies to industrial (construction) units.

In general, a larger dust container allows you to work longer without interruptions. On the other hand, a capacious container itself takes up more space and, accordingly, affects the size, weight and price. So when choosing th...is parameter, it is worth considering the actual features of the use of a vacuum cleaner. Here we can give such an example: for a full-scale cleaning of an average city apartment, a capacity of about 1 – 1.5 litres is required. Thus, say, a 4-litre bag allows you to carry out two such cleanings with sufficient efficiency without unloading the vacuum cleaner. There are more detailed recommendations regarding the optimal volume of the dust collector, including specific cleaning options. These recommendations can be found in special sources.

A capacity of a tank for water or detergent a vacuum cleaner with a wet cleaning function is equipped with. (see "Cleaning type").

Large capacity allows you to work longer without refilling the tank. On the other hand, an increase in capacity has a corresponding effect on the size, weight and cost of the unit. Thus, manufacturers choose this parameter taking into account the general specialization and the “weight category” of a particular model. So, in robots (see "Type"), the volume of the water tank is, by definition, small. Even in the heaviest models, it does not exceed 650 mL. But other types of vacuum cleaners can differ markedly in this parameter.

In general, for non-robot units, a capacity of 1 liter or less is considered very limited, 1 – 2 liters is small, 2 – 3 liters is average, more than 3 liters is above average. However, it much depends on the type. For example, in conventional vacuum cleaners, the capacity does not exceed 2.5 liters, and "for workshop" models this is very little — in most cases, they have a tank capacity of 3 liters or more.

The type of power regulator provided in the design of the vacuum cleaner.

By itself , power adjustment allows you to adjust the operating mode to the current situation. For example, to clean a thick carpet, it is better to use a vacuum cleaner on full power, and on a delicate sofa or chair, it may be better to reduce the power. Types of power regulators are distinguished by location; options can be as follows:

— On body. The most popular option among modern vacuum cleaners. The main advantage of models with this design is that they do not require special hoses (unlike the units described below with adjustments on the handle). However, installation on the body is not very convenient for conventional vacuum cleaners (see "Type") — to change the power, you have to lean towards the body every time. However, for most users, it is not critical.

— On handle. The power regulator on the handle of the vacuum hose is convenient because the control is right at your fingertips, and you can change the power with just one movement of your finger, without bending over to the body. However, this convenience has a downside. So, some of these vacuum cleaners can only be fully used with special hoses; when installing a classic hose (without a regulator), the device, at best, will only work at full power, without adjustment, at worst, it will not turn on at all. A special hose is usually included...in the kit, but finding a replacement for it can be a quite troublesome (and costly) business. In other models, a wireless remote control is used, and its presence significantly affects the price of the unit.

— On body and handle. Vacuum cleaners combine both of the options described above. Usually, a hose with a regulator on the handle is supplied with such a unit. However, if necessary, you can install a regular hose and change the power with a switch on the body. Such control is the most versatile. Nevertheless, it is more expensive than each of the options described above.

The automatic power control function is found mainly in robot vacuum cleaners. When driving onto the carpet, the vacuum cleaner automatically increases motor speed and suction power to achieve proper cleaning results. Usually robot vacuum cleaners that support this mode are equipped with a turbo brush and a spacious dust container. It must be taken into account that when cleaning carpets at high power, the battery life of the vacuum cleaner is reduced.

The presence of a HEPA fine filter in the vacuum cleaner; also in this paragraph, the specific class of this filter is often specified.

HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Absorbing) filters are designed to purify the air from the smallest mechanical contaminants — up to tenths of a micron in size. It allows you to trap not only fine dust but even bacteria. For comparison: the size of most bacteria starts at 0.5 microns, and the effectiveness of HEPA filters is evaluated by the ability to retain particles with a size of 0.1 – 0.3 microns. The most advanced such filters ( class 13 and above) are able to remove more than 99.9% of these particles from the air. Here is a more detailed description of the different classes:

— HEPA 10 – traps at least 85% of particles with a size of 0.1 – 0.3 microns;
— HEPA 11 – at least 95% of such particles;
— HEPA 12 – not less than 99.5%;
— HEPA 13 – not less than 99.95%;
— HEPA 14 – not less than 99.995%;

Note that pollution with a size of 0.1 – 0.3 microns is the worst-kept by HEPA filters, so with particles of other sizes (both larger and smaller), the efficiency of such elements will be even higher.

Regarding the choice for this parameter, it is worth noting that, in fact, it does not always make sense to pursue a high filtration class. For example, during wet cleaning with a washing vacuum cleaner (see abov...e), the HEPA filter, in fact, is not needed at all (in many models, it is recommended to remove it altogether for such cases). So if you plan to use such a vacuum cleaner mainly for washing, you can ignore this parameter. Another specific case is industrial units (see "Type"): they are often used for rough cleaning of large debris, where thorough air filtration is not required.

Additional functions provided in the design of the robot vacuum cleaner (see "Type").

Most often in modern robots you can find such special functions: scheduled cleaning, fall protection, obstacle sensor, object recognition, water supply adjustment, control via the Internet, remote control and video surveillance camera. Here is a more detailed description of each of them:

- Scheduled cleaning. The ability to set a schedule according to which the vacuum cleaner will clean automatically, without additional commands from the customer. At the same time, the specific features of such programming may be different, they should be specified separately. So, in the simplest models, the schedule is limited to individual hours within a day - for example, from 16 to 17; at the set hours, the vacuum cleaner is switched on every day. More advanced devices may provide a schedule for the days of the week or even for the dates of the month or year. In any case, this function greatly simplifies the use: it is enough to set the schedule once - and you can not worry about cleaning for at least a few days; especially since most models with this capability also have the function of docking...(see “Robot Configuration - Charging Station”), and the customer only needs to periodically empty the dust container (which is even more simplified if there is a docking station with a bag - see . below).

- Fall protection. Special protection that prevents the vacuum cleaner from falling off steps, high thresholds, etc. In most cases, the basis of such a system is one or more sensors located on the underside of the case. When the vacuum cleaner travels to the edge of the surface being treated, the sensor reacts to this edge - as a result, the device stops and changes direction in order to avoid falling.

- Obstacle sensor. Sensor (or sensor system) for detecting obstacles in the path of the vacuum cleaner. The specific type of such sensors can be different: ultrasonic, infrared, laser, contact, etc. However, in any case, this function allows the device to move in space, avoiding collisions and determining the best detour path. Note that models without such a sensor, for the most part, are also able to bypass obstacles - however, for this, the robot must not only stumble upon a foreign object, but try to pass through it. And only in case of failure, the trajectory changes - moreover, randomly, far from always in the optimal (or at least suitable) direction.

- Object recognition. The function of recognizing various objects on the floor that may interfere with the cleaning process. It is implemented through the presence of a front camera to adjust the optimal route for the vacuum cleaner along the perimeter of the serviced area. The camera in the design of the robotic cleaner reads the outlines of objects and allows you to bypass such obstacles. As a result, slippers, socks thrown under the bed, children's's toys and wires will no longer interfere with the movements of the vacuum cleaner. The function is of particular benefit in the presence of pets at home that are not accustomed to the tray - the robot will calmly has their waste products and keep the nervous system of pet owners healthy.

— Adjustment of water supply. Dosing system for the degree of wetting of the washing cloth in automatic mode. The ability to select the intensity of the water supply allows you to adjust the operation of the robotic vacuum cleaner for different types of floor coverings. For example, for parquet and laminate, the customer can set a low water flow rate, and for less whimsical tiled flooring, a high water flow rate. Also, the vacuum cleaner can turn off the water supply to avoid leaks, for example, when charging. In advanced models of robotic vacuum cleaners, the function of choosing an individual degree of wetting of the napkin for each of the rooms of the dwelling is often incorporated.

— Docking station with a bag. Docking station with its own trash bag. Upon arrival at such a stand, the robot can not only recharge the battery, but also carry out self-cleaning - unload the collected garbage into an external container; The capacity of the dock, as a rule, is enough for several unloadings. The convenience of this function is obvious: it allows the device to work longer without customer intervention, eliminates the need to manually clean the vacuum cleaner when the dust container is full (besides, unloading garbage from the dock is usually easier than such cleaning). True, and such opportunities are quite expensive.

- Management from the Internet. The ability to control the vacuum cleaner via the Internet - most often through a special application on a smartphone or other gadget (theoretically, such control is also possible through a web page that opens in any browser, but in practice this method is almost never used). The robot itself is connected to the network via Wi-Fi. The main advantage of this function is obvious - it allows you to give commands to the device from anywhere in the world where there is Internet access. In this way, for example, you can start a cleaning programme the day before you return from vacation in order to return to a freshly cleaned apartment. And the vacuum cleaner, in turn, can send various notifications to the customer - about the state of the battery, the progress of cleaning, the fullness of the dust container, etc.

- Remote control. A classic remote control that allows you to give commands to the device from a distance. As a rule, such a remote control covers all the main functions of the vacuum cleaner, and in many models it also allows you to directly control the movement. In any case, without remote access, it would be very difficult to control a moving vacuum cleaner - you would either have to wait until it finishes working, or catch the unit on the go. In light of this, this feature is very popular; however, on sale you can find a lot of robots without a remote control. As a rule, these are either the simplest budget devices with a random movement mode and without any additional functions, or advanced models where a smartphone / tablet with an application is used for control.
We also note that the remote controls in robotic vacuum cleaners usually work via an infrared channel - similar to remote controls for TVs, air conditioners, etc. Thus, to receive a command, the vacuum cleaner must be in the line of sight. However, in most cases this can not be called a serious inconvenience.

- Videcam. Own surveillance camera built right into the vacuum cleaner. This feature is only found on web-based models (see above); it allows you to use the robot as a remote video surveillance system and control the situation in the room, being outside and watching the picture from the camera on the smartphone screen. Also, the built-in camera can be used in the mapping system (see "Building a room map") - however, we note that not every vacuum cleaner with a built-in mapping camera has a video surveillance function.