Are Gutter and Window Cleaning Robots a Gimmick?
As technology evolves, there will always be new and updated versions of basically everything we use in our day to day lives. Just because they’re new and updated doesn’t mean they’re improved, or that they can do the things they’ve been built for better than a living human being can.
This goes for the most intricate technological advancements, as well as the little things like household gutter and window cleaning robots.
Now, we’re not saying that technology is bad, and there are certainly some good modern gutter and window cleaning products on the market. It is, however, important to really look into these products before forking out a bunch of money on the newest fad. In this article, we’ll be providing some gutter and window cleaning robot reviews so you can really discover how they compare.
The ‘iRobot Looj 330 Gutter Cleaning Robot’
In theory, this gutter cleaning robot works by breaking apart clogs, lifting them and throwing them out of the gutter, then brushing the gutters clean. It features a 500RPM auger to break apart the clogs and remove them from the gutter, as well as a brush attachment to carry out the cleaning. The machine travels down gutters on tracks like a bulldozer; or, at least it’s meant to…
Although gutter cleaning robots like the Looj, may prove to work well in gutters with little to no debris, many reviews have pointed out the fact that they clog easily and flip when a blockage (like a clump of leaves or a tennis ball) stops them in their path. There have also been claims (backed up with a photo from one reviewer) of pine needles wrapping around the rotor and stalling the machine.
Many reviews mention a difficulty in getting individual replacement parts after the brushes wear out as well. Many users do also mention the limited battery life that tends to run out quickly if the gutter requires more than just a light clean.
So, if you’re looking for a long-lasting, durable and effective gutter cleaning service, robots may not be the best option. If you need a quick once-off solution for a gutter with minimal blockage, then you may find a product like this useful. From what we can tell though, the hefty price tag (around $300) isn’t worth the amount of use you’d get out of it.
The ‘HOBOT Window Cleaning Robot’ and ‘WINBOT X Window Cleaning Robot’
Of these two window cleaning robots, it seems that the Hobot is the preferred option. Reviewers say the Hobot is easier to use and provides a better clean, but that doesn’t mean it lives up to the hype and provides a perfect streak-free clean.
These robots work by sticking to windows with specialised suction feet and move along the pane, spraying mist and wiping away marks with cloth pads.
It is suggested in the ‘how to’ manuals that the window be given a dry clean with a cloth before allowing the robot to do its thing.
Reviewers have noted that the robots struggle with smaller windowpanes as they do not have enough room to manoeuvre well, but on bigger panes with more grime they tend to leave smears, even after carrying out a dry wipe first.
Other users have mentioned that their window cleaning robot leaves streaks and doesn’t clean thoroughly enough. Some complain about the robots falling off the windows. A safety rope is usually included to stop the robot from falling to the ground but having to reattach it mid clean is still not ideal.
Another downside to these robots is that they generally are unable to function in wet weather and humid conditions. So, if your windows are prone to needing urgent cleans, you may not find these machines as useful as they claim to be.
For between $500-$600, you can pick up one of these robot window cleaning devices. If you need cleaning for mid-sized windows that don’t see much traffic, it may be worth it. If your windows are quite large and collect a lot of dirt and grime though, this product is likely not going to impress you.
The verdict
Window cleaning and gutter cleaning robots may seem like they’re the way of the future. Believe us, if that were the case, we’d be using them.
You’re never going to get a better clean than you will by hand. Essentially, in order to avoid streaks and smears and to ensure an even, proper clean, you need one big swipe with a large squeegee. Nothing else we’ve come across compares to that method of window cleaning. Same goes for gutter cleaning. The best way to ensure a proper clean and unclog is to do it by hand. Lots of water is also always good to have for 99% of cleaning jobs.
We’ll keep you in the loop as new products come out and if we find one that actually works efficiently and effectively, you’ll be the first to know, and we’ll probably be using it ourselves.
Until then, please do let us know if you need your gutters or windows cleaned by a professional, honest-to-goodness human being who will do an incredible job. Our cleaning technicians won’t give up if the gutter is heavily blocked and they won’t leave grime on your windows. Of that, you can be certain!
Reach out via the contact page on our website or give us a call on 1300 GRAYSONS (1300 472 976) to book in your quality window or gutter clean today.
