Hobot 188

Many homeowners are reluctant to clean their windows, as it's a painstaking and sometimes even dangerous task. This is especially true when it comes to cleaning the glass surfaces of high-rise buildings. Taiwanese company Hobot has simplified this process with an innovative window cleaning robot. The Hobot 188 window cleaning robot is compact, yet it safely and quickly cleans glass and other smooth surfaces. Compared to similar models, the 188 offers improved ergonomics and a low noise level. This Hobot 188 review will help you get to know this automatic window cleaner better.

Equipment

The robot is sold in a cardboard box weighing an average of 2 kg. The box itself is very informative, with all information translated into Russian. The package contains the following items:

1. Wiper.
2. Remote control.
3. AA batteries for the remote control.
4. User manual.
5. Battery.
6. Power unit.
7. Safety rope.
8. Two rings to which napkins are attached.
9. Set of 12 microfiber cloths.
10. Power cable.

The warranty card is located on the last page of the instructions. The robotic cleaner itself comes in a protective bag, and the additional cables are hidden in a small cardboard box. The power adapter also comes in a similar box.

Appearance

The robotic cleaner's body is made of high-strength ABS plastic. The electronics are securely hidden underneath. The developers have done a great job creating a modern design. The body itself is white with black accents, oval in shape, and has no sharp corners.

The front panel of the window cleaner (in the very center) features a handle for convenient carrying. The handle itself bears the company logo, and underneath are openings—a fan or so-called vacuum pump. This allows air to escape during operation. Below the handle is a connector for the cable and an on/off button. The top of the front panel is a bit more sophisticated. The model number of the wiper is printed on the glossy black surface, and above it are LED indicators that indicate the Hobot 188's battery level and any errors that may occur during operation. The remote control signal receiver and the sound holes are also located here.

A look at the underside of the window cleaning robot reveals two discs that hold soft, washable microfiber cloths after cleaning. They also house duplicate indicator lights and a remote control receiver. This is necessary for controlling the robot when cleaning the outside of a window.

Technical specifications

The instructions included with the Hobot 188 wiper kit list all the technical specifications of the wiper. A detailed overview is summarized in a single table:

Country of origin	Taiwan
Parameters	12x14.8x29.5 cm
Noise level	67 dB
Weight	940 grams
Speed ​​of work	4 min/m2
Suction power	80 W
Nutrition	Li-Pol, 14.8 V
Number of modes	3
Battery life	20 min
Minimum window size	35x35 cm
Surface thickness	From 3 mm
Safety rope	4.5 m

Functional capabilities

The cleaning robot is designed for cleaning not only glass but also other similar surfaces. For example, it can clean mirrors, tiles, varnished wood, and even plastic. The Hobot 188 works on both horizontal and vertical surfaces.

The window cleaner operates on electricity. Once plugged in, the two round discs begin to move, cleaning the dirty surface. The model has three operating modes:

1. Dry cleaning.
2. Wet cleaning.
3. Removing stains.

When dry cleaning, the robotic cleaner moves in several trajectories. First, it begins a vertical upward motion, thoroughly cleaning the edges. Then, it begins a zigzag downward motion. When wet cleaning, the Hobot 188 follows the same trajectory, only at a slower speed. For the third mode, replace the cleaning cloths with clean ones, slightly dampen them, and start cleaning.

The robotic cleaner is held on a vertical surface by a powerful vacuum pump. There are no magnets or suction cups in the design. Special sensors detect the edges of the surface.

The Hobot 188 is controlled by a remote control, which allows you to set any movement mode. If the robotic cleaner encounters any problems, the user will be alerted by an audible signal and a light indicator.

If the power goes out for any reason during the work, the window cleaner will remain on the glass for another twenty minutes. A safety cable will prevent the cleaner from falling or breaking due to other technical problems.

Operating instructions

The Hobot 188 glass and mirror cleaning robot comes with a user manual. This user manual describes the cleaning robot's operation, lists its main features, and explains its technical specifications. It also explains how to operate the cleaner and provides recommendations for first-time use.

You can download the operating instructions in Russian by following the link: instructions for Hobot 188.

Advantages and disadvantages

A review of the Hobot 188's robotic cleaning capabilities revealed not only its advantages but also its disadvantages. Its modern appearance and compact size aren't the Hobot 188's primary advantages. The advantages include the following:

1. Easy to operate.
2. High quality cleaning without streaks or untreated areas.
3. Cleans not only glass, but also tiles, mirrors, and any similar smooth surface.
4. Reusable wipes included.

The disadvantages include:

1. High price (around $200 in 2019).
2. Doesn't clean well in corners.
3. Not capable of cleaning heavy dirt.

Overall, the model is worth considering, but it can't be called one of the best. In our window cleaning robot ratings There are more interesting models for the same price.

Finally, we recommend watching a video review of the Hobot 188:

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