Roomba, the first automatic vacuum available in the U.S., is an intelligent vacuum that uses robotic technology to deliver both clean floors and personal time. Roomba uses artificial intelligence algorithms to clean efficiently and was introduced by iRobot, pioneers in artificial intelligence who have built numerous products for the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. military, and toy and energy companies. Thirteen inches in diameter and lighter than your average bowling ball, this innovative vacuum roams the room devouring dust, dirt, and tidbits left behind from everyday living.
Setting up your Roomba for its first sashay through the living room is fairly easy. You’ll want to move any clothing, papers, cords, and fragile items off the floor before you start. You may choose to set up the Virtual Wall unit, which emits a beam to redirect the Roomba, keeping it out of unwanted areas. Make sure the rechargeable battery is fired up by checking the indicator light, set the Roomba in the center of the room, and press the corresponding button for a small (10 by 12 feet), medium (14 by 16 feet), or large (15 by 20 feet) room. When Roomba starts cleaning, it travels around the floor in a spiral pattern. When its bumper touches a wall, Roomba follows the wall for a short time, utilizing its spinning side brush to move objects away from the wall and into the vacuum’s path. Then Roomba crosses the room in straight lines. It repeats this pattern until its cleaning time has elapsed, providing maximum cleaning coverage.
Although it may look more like a Frisbee than a vacuum, the Roomba cleans carpet, wood, linoleum, and tile, and comes with many of the usual vacuum accoutrements. The agitator brush roll picks up large debris, sucking it into the removable particle bin with filter. An edge-cleaning brush helps get into corners and angular areas. All the brushes and compartments can be removed for regular cleaning maintenance, and the unit comes with two replacement filters. Additional Virtual Wall units, battery packs, and a rapid charger can be purchased separately. The Roomba is covered by a 90-day parts and labor warranty.