Suction power
Working power of the machine for suction.
The effort with which the unit draws in pollution during operation directly depends on this indicator. The greater this effort, the higher the quality of cleaning and the more effective cleaning. On the other hand, even in the heaviest and most performant models, the suction power does not exceed 1200 W — it simply does not make sense to increase it further. In addition, we note that with an increase in the width of the grip, the suction power must also be increased, otherwise, the efficiency will decrease. It means that only models of the same type with the same or almost the same working width can be compared in terms of suction power.
Voltage
The voltage of the battery used in the machine with the appropriate type of power supply. This parameter is not a key one when choosing: it may be needed only when looking for a third-party charger or a replacement/spare battery, as well as for specific calculations related to capacity (see below).
Autonomy time
The operating time of a battery-powered cleaning machine on a single charge of a standard battery.
By itself, this parameter is quite approximate: it is most often indicated for standard operation and simple conditions. However, the actual battery life usually does not differ much from the indicated one. So, according to the claimed autonomy time, it is quite possible to evaluate the capabilities of different models and compare them with each other.
Charging time
The time required to fully charge the battery of cleaning machine (see "Power supply").
The larger the battery, the longer it may take to charge it. On the other hand, this moment also depends on the type of battery. In addition, special technologies are being used to speed up the process. So two machines with a similar battery capacity can differ in charging times.
Noise level
The noise level generated by the cleaning machine during operation.
A low noise level is important for the comfort of the operator and the people around. The latter is especially true in some specific places like hospitals or kindergartens. On the other hand, the higher the power, the louder, usually, the unit operates and the more difficult it is to reduce this noise to a certain level, even though in many cases the high volume of the work is not a particular problem. So it’s worth looking specifically for a “quiet” cleaning machine only if a low noise level is more critical for you than a high cost and/or reduced power.
When evaluating specific loudness values, note that the decibel used to indicate the noise level is a non-linear value. Therefore, it is easiest to evaluate specific values using comparative tables. Here is a simplified table for the range that most modern cleaning machines fit into:
55 dB — background sound in the office without special noise sources;
60 dB — loud conversation;
65 dB — city street with average traffic intensity;
70 dB — a conversation of several people in raised tones.
75 dB — high-power vacuum cleaner.
80 dB — traffic noise on a busy street.
Weight
The total weight of the cleaning machine. Usually, weight is indicated with empty tanks for detergent, waste, fuel, etc. At the same time, additional equipment, such as side brushes, may or may not be taken into account. Such equipment has a very small weight compared to the machines themselves. And, when installed/removed, does not seriously affect the mass of the entire machine.
