Can Robot Vacuums Work In The Dark?

For busy individuals, especially working parents, finding time to clean the house during the day can be a real challenge. The good news is, with advancements in technology, smart vacuums can now quietly work in the dark. Users can easily set cleaning schedules or control the robot remotely, taking one task out of their busy schedule.
Wonder how robotic vacuum cleaners work in the dark? Here, we will look into their navigation methods and certain features that are important for a smooth operation in low-light conditions.

Do Robot Vacuum Work In The Dark

Yes, robot vacuums can operate effectively in the dark, thanks to advanced navigation and obstacle detection technologies such as LiDAR sensors, infrared cameras and AI-powered mapping algorithms that do not rely on surrounding light to function. 
Making sure that a robot vacuum is well-equipped to work in the dark and on reflective surfaces as they do in well-lit spaces is important, as you can’t always keep the lights on to accommodate the preset cleaning schedule. It should also perform normally in hard-to-reach areas, such as under sofas and cabinets, where light barely reaches. DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI, for example, features TrueMapping 2.0 for quick and accurate mapping of its environment, whether in low light or pitch-black rooms. Besides, AIVI 3D 3.0 OMNI-Approach Technology recognises and identifies obstacles in real time through its upgraded AIVI RGBD camera, using their contours as boundaries for edge cleaning to maximise coverage.

How Robot Vacuums Work In The Dark

Robot vacuums rely on LiDAR sensors, infrared cameras and advanced algorithms to navigate in low-light conditions. These features allow them to detect various obstacles, map their surroundings, and calculate optimised cleaning routes without depending on ambient light.
While some worry that reflective surfaces like polished marble or high-gloss tile may interfere with navigation signals, high-end models like DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI overcome this with advanced Fully-Embedded dToF LiDAR laser sensors: these sensors emit their own light pulses for precise mapping. Meanwhile, its RGB AI and 3D structured light technology enhance obstacle avoidance accuracy and overall performance, regardless in total darkness or on glossy surfaces.

Best DEEBOT Robot Vacuums That Work In The Dark

DEEBOT robot vacuums are equipped with cutting-edge technologies to navigate in low-light conditions, including TrueMapping 2.0, dToF laser sensors and AIVI 3D technology. These features not only allow them to detect obstacles but also to plan efficient cleaning routes and generate precise maps, even in environments lacking general illumination.

DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI 

The flagship DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI continues to deliver a true hands-free cleaning experience in low-light environments. With AIVI 3D 3.0 Omni-Approach Technology that powered by a deep-learning neural network, the vacuum recognises various objects in real time and cleans around them, even in the dark. Meanwhile, Ultrasonic Carpet Detection identifies carpeted areas without requiring light, allowing the "Carpet First" function to thoroughly vacuum all carpets with 18,000Pa suction power¹ before mopping, preventing moisture buildup and contamination. Once cleaning is complete, the device returns to its OMNI Station, where it automatically self-empties and cleans using the Temperature-Controlled Mop Washing and Hot Air Drying systems to prevent odours.

DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI

Many people seek a robot vacuum that works in the dark so they can run it while asleep or away without keeping the lights on. Therefore, on top of an efficient navigation system, quiet operation is also important.
Operating at just 63 dBA, which is equivalent to normal conversations, DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI sweeps and mops without disturbing your sleep. Its TrueMapping 2.0 rapidly scans and create a map of 100 square meters in just 6 minutes; when paired with AIVI 3D 3.0 OMNI-Approach Technology that is powered by a Vision-Language Model, this vacuum identifies obstacles in real time and adjusts accordingly, perfect for households with active kids.

DEEBOT N20 PRO PLUS

Looking for a pet-friendly robot vacuum that works in the dark or on reflective floors? DEEBOT N20 PRO PLUS is a great option. From TrueMapping Intelligent Path Planning for mapping and precise navigation, to intelligent obstacle detection and 20mm threshold climbing², this model smoothly transitions across surfaces in low-light environments. To tackle pet hair, its ZeroTangle Anti-Tangle Technology features a flat and outward-rotating angled bristles on the roller brush and dual comb teeth arrays that untangle hairs as it vacuums with 8,000Pa suction power³, saving you time and effort to cut off hair from brushes.

Factors Affecting Robot Vacuum Performance In Low Light

Navigation Sensors

Most robotic vacuum cleaners with laser-based and infrared detection sensors are able to ‘see’in the dark. That being said, robotic vacuum cleaners with optical sensors, which require a certain amount of light to operate, may have trouble identifying objects and may zigzag or fall over stairs in low light conditions.

Obstacle Detection Sensors

Robot floor cleaners that use infrared sensors only may have difficulty detecting obstacle in low light environment in comparison to well-lit condition, and may bump into furniture and walls. Models with older cliff sensors may also have issues differentiating dark surfaces as an edge, and will not clean over it.

Debris Detection Sensors

Smart vacuum cleaners use sensors to detect dust and debris. Models with optical sensors may not work well in low light conditions and will not pick up small debris. It is important to always keep the sensors clean for optimal performance.

Surface Reflectivity

Some automatic vacuum cleaners do not work well on reflective, glossy surfaces and shiny objects like glass and mirror. For example, they may take a glass coffee table as an obstacle-free zone and run into it, causing damage to the furniture and the automatic vacuum. The glare and reflections will cause confusion with the robot vacuum’s sensors.

Battery Life

Since it is harder for the self-cleaning vacuums to work in low light, it may need to use more power to work, thus draining the battery faster. By performing regular maintenance and keeping the vacuum clean, you can help improve energy efficiency.

Noise

Another concern when using an auto vacuum in the dark is the noise. The last thing you want is to be disturbed by a noisy robotic vacuum cleaner during your sleep. Most robot vacuums runs between 65-80 dB, and it's a good idea to check if the robot floor cleaner has a quiet operation, especially if you live in an apartment where the noise may easily be heard through thin walls.

FAQ

Disclaimer(s):

1. 18,000Pa: This data comes from ECOVACS laboratory. The suction power of DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI can reach 18,000Pa.
2. 20mm high: This data comes from ECOVACS laboratory.
3. 8,000Pa: This data comes from ECOVACS laboratory. The suction power of DEEBOT N20 PRO PLUS can reach 8,000Pa.