Vacuum cleaner for windows: varieties, operating features + recommendations for buyers

Washing windows is a simple task, but labor-intensive, tedious, and if the apartment is located on the upper floors, also dangerous.There are a lot of devices that are somehow involved in this difficult work. Now their list is headed by a window vacuum cleaner - a device that facilitates and speeds up the process of caring for light-conducting structures.

Our article will introduce you to all types of vacuum cleaners whose purpose is to wash glass and the frames that hold them. We will tell you which device is better to choose depending on the technical circumstances. Here are the characteristics that you should look for before purchasing.

What is a glass vacuum cleaner?

Do not confuse a window reader with washing vacuum cleaners. These are completely different devices. Some washing models can be equipped with special nozzles for cleaning glass.

They can be used for washing windows, but their main purpose is still wet cleaning of premises. Windshield wipers are compact devices that are used only for cleaning glass.

An electric windshield wiper makes life much easier for the housewife. With its help you can easily and quickly clean a smooth surface of a large area. There are no streaks or streaks left

The devices are very diverse, but the principle of their operation is generally the same. First, a cleaning solution is sprayed onto the glass. It wets dirt. Then they are removed with a napkin or scraper.After which the device sucks up the remaining cleaning solution, leaving behind a dried, clean surface.

There are two types of such devices: manual devices and fully automated robots.

Hand-held battery instruments

Majority hand-held devices This type is battery operated. The battery is small, it lasts for 20-25 minutes. work. But this is quite enough to have time to wash a window, and even more than one, or another smooth surface such as tiles or a mirror. There are two types of manual units.

The device collects the cleaning solution remaining after cleaning the glass. The suction is strong enough to ensure that once the nozzle has passed over the surface, it comes out clean and dry.

Features of separate models

The devices are a set of two instruments. The first is a spray bottle with a cleaning nozzle, the second is the electric windshield wiper itself.

This tandem works like this:

1. You need to prepare a cleaning solution. Most manufacturers offer their own products. One bottle of this must be included with the device. To prepare the composition, you need to add a certain amount of liquid to the water.
2. The product is poured into a spray bottle and sprayed evenly over the glass.
3. The surface is cleaned with a microfiber pad.
4. A manual glass cleaner removes any remaining detergent.

It turns out that in the course of work you have to use two tools, which can be considered the main disadvantage of separate models. But they have minimal weight.

And this is very important for units that are held in the hand and suspended for a long time. On average, it is 0.7-0.8 kg, so the device is convenient for fragile women.True, the mass of the reservoir with waste liquid is added, but it is small.

Window vacuum cleaners are good at more than just cleaning glass. They perfectly clean any other smooth surface. This could be a mirror, tiles and much more.

One of the best representatives of separate models is the Karcher WV-50. This compact device effectively removes dirt on any smooth surface.

Suitable for cleaning mirrors, shower walls, window glass, tiles, etc. The device is supplied with a bottle of special detergent. Practice shows that when it runs out, you can use any effective composition if it is not possible to purchase the original one.

Specifics of combined devices

The main difference between such units is the presence of a separator in the container for the detergent composition. This makes it possible to pour a soap solution into one of the resulting reservoirs, and collect the “waste” liquid in the other.

This design allows you to complete the entire cleaning cycle in one go, since spraying, cleaning and removing the contaminated solution occur almost simultaneously.

The process of working with a windshield wiper is as follows:

1. The prepared cleaning solution is poured into one of the tanks.
2. The device is brought to the glass and the spray mode is turned on. The surface is moistened and cleaned.
3. The device switches to vacuum cleaner mode and collects liquid from the glass.

Of course, using such a device is more convenient than a separate one. It also takes less time to clean. The main disadvantage of devices of this type is their greater weight.

This is inevitable, since the weight of the cleaning solution, both unused and used, is added to the weight of the device.Therefore, the device may not be very comfortable to use. It is heavier, which in some cases can interfere with work.

Combined models with a liquid reservoir divided into two compartments are very convenient. The user does not have to change elements during operation. True, their weight can be very noticeable for fragile women

A worthy representative of this line of VAX H/86-WV-B-R units from a Chinese manufacturer. This is a very convenient and effective model. Its weight is only 0.7 kg, however, without cleaning solution.

But this is still very little and is quite comparable to separate devices. Among the features of the model, it is necessary to mention the movable nozzle, which sucks up liquid. This design allows you to collect the solution even in inaccessible places.

What to look for when choosing?

The very first thing you need to determine is which type of purifier is preferable: combined or separate. Their other characteristics are approximately the same. When choosing a device for yourself, you need to pay attention to the following points:

Availability of extension rods and weight

The device is easy to use if the surface to be cleaned is accessible. If the top edge of the window is too high, the unit needs to be improved.

This can be done using a set of extending rods on which the sprayer and windshield wiper are attached. Their length may vary; you should choose the best option for your home.

This design can reach any part of the window glass. In the best case, folding rods can be included with the unit or sold separately. Some models do not have extension structures. If your home has high glazing, it is better to avoid such devices.

Extension rods are a necessary element for models. used in houses with high glazing. When choosing a vacuum cleaner you need to be careful. There are devices for which the use of extension rods is not provided at all.

The weight of the unit usually does not exceed 1 kg, but there are also heavier specimens. It must be remembered that it is better to select a model with minimal weight. The heavy apparatus, which will have to be held in an outstretched hand when processing the upper part of the window glass, is very uncomfortable to work with.

In addition, the manufacturer usually indicates the weight of the product without taking into account the mass of liquid in the tank, which adds about 150-200 g.

Nozzle design and dimensions

Nozzles with a length of about 27-29 cm are considered standard. These sizes are convenient for carefully washing away dirt from window glass. There are also small attachments up to 17 cm long.

They are very convenient for washing small surfaces: car windows, windows with bars, etc. Most of the attachments are a stationary element on which a microfiber cover is put on.

The best option is a movable structure. It has the ability to change its position, so it presses against the glass as tightly as possible and washes very well.

Covers made of different materials can be used for attachments. Soft microfiber copes well with small stains. If you cannot remove dirt with it, you should try using a hard cover made of material with metallized threads.

The removable small nozzle is indispensable for cleaning small window bays, car windows, etc. Unfortunately, not all hand-held vacuum cleaners have it. It is important to find out this point before purchasing

Device power type

There are two options: from the mains or from a battery. It is optimal if the model combines both of them. Devices that are connected to the network have unlimited operating time.

But at the same time, the cord significantly limits their range, and in some cases you have to use an extension cord for the device to work. Units with a battery do not have this disadvantage.

However, they can work for no more than 25-30 minutes. After this, the battery is completely discharged. Recharging takes at least two hours. True, in half an hour of operation, a vacuum cleaner can wash about 50 square meters. m surface or several windows. Which is usually quite enough.

In addition, devices with a battery are mobile and can be used not only in the house, but also outside. For example, for washing car windows.

Device configuration and manufacturer

It can be different, it is important to choose those additional options that are really needed. If the house has high glazing, you cannot do without extension rods.

It would be good if they came with the device. But that rarely happens. It is important to find out whether it is possible to connect them with the model you like and, if so, where you can purchase rods compatible with the device.

For convenient work with a new vacuum cleaner for windows, it is important to choose its equipment correctly. The set of attachments should exactly match the user’s needs, then you won’t have to buy what you need and overpay for what you don’t need.

It’s nice if the vacuum cleaner comes with a small attachment. This significantly expands the capabilities of the device. It gets the ability to clean hard-to-reach places.

If you plan to wash heavily soiled surfaces, a nozzle with a cover made of metallized thread would be a good idea.But you can do without a bottle of detergent. Any effective composition will do; there are no special requirements for it.

Glass washing units are produced in different countries. Most often on the market you can find products from American, German, Swedish, Russian and Chinese manufacturers.

The price range is very wide. Those who like to save money choose cheaper Chinese devices. They are not bad, but there is a risk of getting a low-quality product. When purchasing products from well-known manufacturers from Europe, this risk is much lower.

Rating of different types of cordless vacuum cleaners given here. The information presented in the article will help you choose mini-equipment not only for window maintenance.

Differences between automatic vacuum cleaners

These devices are still quite rare in stores, but the demand for them is constantly growing. Let's get acquainted with two types of robotic glass washers.

Models with magnetic modules

The equipment consists of two separate units. The first one is detergent. This is a module that contains a battery and a tank with cleaning solution. The lower part of the unit is equipped with nozzles for washing glass and scrapers for cleaning corners.

The second module is navigation. It analyzes information about the position of the device and moves it along the surface. Equipped with a more powerful battery than the washing unit.

Magnetic modules are installed on the window, one opposite the other. After power is applied, they hold tightly to the glass and are able to move synchronously along its surface, while removing dirt

The modules are fixed on the glass, one opposite the other. After turning them on, an electromagnet is activated, which attracts the blocks and prevents them from sliding off the glass.When the unit is put into operation, it first passes the glass horizontally, then from bottom to top.

Thus, it determines the dimensions of the surface to be processed. Next, the device moves along a zigzag path from top to bottom, washing the glass. At the end of the cycle, the device beeps. The battery capacity is usually greater than that of manual counterparts. The charge lasts for 1.5-2 hours of operation.

Both modules are equipped with bumpers that prevent a hard collision with the frame. The navigation unit is additionally equipped with sensors that collect information about the surrounding environment. The units operate according to a simple algorithm, but it is possible to use the remote control to adjust it.

Robots of this type can adapt to certain operating conditions. Considering that robot vacuum cleaner for windows fixed directly on the glass, it should be possible to regulate the pressing force of the modules.

For maximum efficiency of the device, the supply of cleaning solution can be reduced or increased. An important point: the width of the glass in different double-glazed windows may vary, so you need to choose a model with a suitable range of action.

Remote control is very convenient, as it gives the user the opportunity to make adjustments to the operation of the device even when it is in a hard-to-reach place. There is no need to try to get close to the device, just press the buttons on the remote control

The South Korean Windoro WCR-I001 can be considered a worthy representative of this group of devices. A compact, efficient model with good equipment is available in two versions, differing in the range of glass thicknesses.

The unit copes well with various contaminants; the battery charge lasts for 90 minutes. work.After the battery dies, the magnets continue to hold the device in place.

Units with vacuum suction cup

After turning on the device, the vacuum pump is activated, creating a zone with rarefied air. Thanks to this, the device is firmly held on the glass. It begins to move from bottom to top and then horizontally, determining the surface area to be cleaned.

Then the device determines the trajectory of work and begins to move. For this purpose, rotating elements are most often used, on which napkins are placed. As a result, the device moves along the plane, simultaneously rubbing it with some force.

The program embedded in the device assumes that it will return to the point from which the work began. Such robots usually do not have a sprayer and a tank with cleaning solution. Therefore, before starting the device, the user must moisten the glass with water or a special cleaning compound.

Thanks to the vacuum suction cup, the unit is securely attached to a smooth surface. it is equipped with two rotating nozzles, thanks to which it moves along the plane. They rotate alternately and not only move the device, but also clean the glass

In this way they resemble separate hand-held instruments. True, in this case the sprayer is not included with the device. To control the unit, buttons on its body are usually used.

However, some models may additionally include a remote control. This is very convenient if you need to change the cleaning program or stop the device, but reaching it is problematic.

Vacuum cleaners of this type include Hobot-168, developed in Taiwan. Its peculiarity is the absence of a battery.The device operates only from the mains, so it is equipped with a fairly long cord. It still has a battery, but it is only designed for emergency operation.

To avoid emergency situations, the manufacturer equips the device with a safety cord. The cleaning area of ​​the device is limited to 30 square meters. m in one cycle. Any detergent can be used.

Guidelines for choosing a robotic assistant

You need to start by determining the type of vacuum cleaner. Before doing this, you need to decide on the desired functionality and the degree of “independence” of the device. This will be the main selection criterion. In addition, the following points should be taken into account:

Device power method

Like their manual counterparts, robots can be equipped with a battery or connected to the network. The first option is much preferable because it gives the device maximum freedom of movement.

Considering that it works without human intervention, it needs this. It is highly undesirable for the unit to fall or stop due to a tangled cord.

Units operating from the network have an unlimited supply of operating time. However, their range is limited by the length of the power cord. Rechargeable devices are very mobile, but limited in duration

When choosing a battery, you need to remember that as soon as it runs out, the device may slide off the glass. Therefore, it is worth choosing a model with a maximum power battery and not leaving it uncontrolled during operation. Devices operating from the network can do this for as long as desired. But at the same time they are somewhat limited in movement.

Suitable device configuration

It is optimal to choose models with the maximum possible configuration.As a rule, robotic vacuum cleaners do not have additional attachments of this type. But the manufacturer can equip them with additional napkins and scrapers for cleaning.

In some cases, such consumables can be quite difficult to purchase, so the more of them along with the vacuum cleaner, the better. Before purchasing, be sure to clarify the availability and cost of consumables. If they are too expensive or are not always on sale, it is better to look for another model.

A branded detergent may also be sold complete with the unit. The bottle is usually small and runs out quickly. It is worth checking with a consultant whether it is necessary to use it or whether you can purchase some other composition.

Square and rectangular models are considered more effective because they are able to clean out dirt in the corners of window frames. Round units cannot do this. This is worth considering when choosing a device

Features of the device

Before purchasing an expensive unit, such as a robot vacuum cleaner for windows, it is worth finding out all the features of its operation. For example, Hobot-168 is equipped with round-shaped cleaning elements.

Thus, he is not able to clean dirt from the corners of the frame. You will have to do this yourself. It will clean a smooth surface without a frame as efficiently as possible.

Windoro WCR-I001 does not have this drawback. Its brushes are also round, but special scrapers are additionally used. Therefore, dirt in the corners is completely removed.

However, the device has limitations in operation. It can only be used on bags with a certain glass thickness. If this requirement is not met, the device cannot stay on the window.

Brand and country of production

Robotic window cleaners are a relatively new product. Quite a few of them are still being produced. Most of the products are made in Asian countries, but there are also Europeans.

Do not think that the latter have any advantage and are especially high quality. Before purchasing, you should read reviews about the brand.

Before purchasing, it is advisable to collect as much information as possible about the brand that produces the model you like and about the device itself. Good units will do their job well and last a long time

If most of them are negative or they simply don’t exist, this is a reason to think about choosing a model from another manufacturer. The first and most famous, as well as reliable devices were Windoro robots. Unfortunately, they cannot be used in all conditions. Therefore, Hobot brand products are more common in our country.

You will get acquainted with popular types of mini-vacuum cleaners used to solve various household problems. next article. We recommend reading this very useful information.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

We test robotic vacuum cleaners for cleaning windows:

Instructions for proper use of a windshield wiper:

You can entrust window cleaning to a mechanical assistant. Even hand-held vacuum cleaners make this job much easier, while robots take it completely on themselves. The person only has to remove the device after cleaning is completed.

Electric windshield wipers are quite varied, so you need to be careful when choosing a device. To get the ideal assistant that fully satisfies all the owner’s wishes.

Would you like to tell us about how you chose a vacuum cleaner for cleaning glass for your own apartment or house? Do you have useful information that may be useful to site visitors? Please write comments in the block below, ask questions and post photos on the topic of the article.