Hester YTHC 5 DRS Window Cleaner: In-Depth Review and Customer Opinions

The Hester Window Cleaning Robot is an innovative new robot designed specifically for cleaning windows, glass doors, mirrors, and other smooth surfaces. This lightweight and compact robot uses advanced technology to scrub, wipe, and vacuum windows without streaking or smudging.

The Hester features an internal tank and microfiber pads that uniformly spray and wipe windows. It also has a built-in vacuum to suck up dirty water, ensuring crystal clear windows. With smart navigation and app control, Hester can map rooms and be scheduled to clean windows automatically.

This review will provide an overview of the Hester Window Cleaning Robot's design, features, cleaning performance, battery life, navigation, app control, noise level, maintenance needs, pros and cons, and overall value for those looking for automated window cleaning.

Design

The Hester YTHC 5 DRS window cleaner robot has a sleek, compact design that makes it easy to store when not in use. It measures 12.2 x 12.2 x 7.3 inches and weighs just over 5 pounds, making it lightweight enough to carry from window to window.

Despite its small size, the Hester has an impressive cleaning reach of over 33 feet thanks to its 5-meter tethered cable. This allows it to clean large windows without having to be frequently repositioned.

The robot comes in a white and light blue color scheme that gives it a clean, modern aesthetic. The top is white while the bottom cleaning pad is blue. This color combination hides dirt and grime picked up during the cleaning process.

The simple, squared shape with lack of protruding parts allows the Hester to get close to window edges and corners for thorough cleaning. Its design focuses on functionality rather than flashy cosmetic features.

At just over 5 pounds, the lightweight robot can be easily mounted on windows using its suction pads and carried between cleaning sessions. The compact 12 x 12 inch size takes up minimal storage space.

While the Hester YTHC 5 DRS has an impressive design optimized for window cleaning, some consumers may prefer a robot with more advanced features and capabilities. The EVERYBOT EDGE2 is a newer window cleaning robot that offers full automation and smart navigation. With an ultra-thin 2.95 inch profile, it can clean windows of any size or shape.

The EVERYBOT EDGE2 has a unique frames design that lets it drive on vertical, inclined, or horizontal surfaces without falling. Built-in sensors automatically scan the window size and shape to calculate the most efficient cleaning path. It comes with strong suction pads that adhere to glass firmly while cleaning.

This advanced window bot delivers complete autonomy with options for manual, semi-auto, and fully automatic modes. In auto mode, it can clean an entire window independently without any user intervention needed. The EVERYBOT mobile app allows remote control and monitoring.

With dual side brushes, the EDGE2 can clean right up to the window frame for highly thorough cleaning. Its max cleaning efficiency is an impressive 567 sq ft per hour. The lithium-ion battery enables up to 35 minutes of runtime.

While the Hester YTHC 5 DRS is a solid budget option, consumers wanting more advanced automation and efficiency may want to consider investing in the EVERYBOT EDGE2 instead. It represents the cutting-edge in window cleaning robot technology with unrivaled navigation and cleaning capabilities.

Features

The Hester YTHC 5 DRS window cleaning robot has 3 main cleaning features - vacuuming, water spraying, and squeegee wiping.

The vacuuming function uses strong suction to pick up dust and dirt from the window surface before spraying and wiping. This helps get a deeper clean. There are 2 suction levels to choose from.

For spraying, the robot has an internal water tank that can hold up to 150ml of water mixed with window cleaning solution. The water gets sprayed evenly onto the windows through small nozzles. The spray pressure can be adjusted.

After the window is sprayed, the squeegee blade on the robot wipes and squeeges the window surface to get rid of all the dirt and water streaks. The squeegee applies consistent pressure and has a silicone blade for smooth wiping action.

Combining vacuuming, spraying, and squeegeeing allows this robot to clean windows thoroughly in one pass. The different cleaning modes can also be customized in the app.

If you're looking for an alternative window cleaning robot, consider the FILY S1PRO. This robot has similar vacuuming, spraying, and wiping functions but also includes some extra features. It has a larger water tank capacity of 180ml and a longer battery runtime of 35 minutes per charge. The FILY S1PRO also has an auto-stop function when finished cleaning and can be scheduled to clean at set times. This robot has strong safety features as well, like multiple anti-drop technologies to prevent falls. It cleans in Z-shaped paths for efficient cleaning. The FILY S1PRO connects to an app that allows you to customize cleaning modes, speeds, and more. So if you're looking for a window cleaning robot with more advanced features, take a look at the S1PRO.

Window cleaning robots like the Hester YTHC 5 DRS and FILY S1PRO are designed to automate and simplify the tedious task of washing windows. These robots combine vacuuming, spraying, and wiping functions in one unit to clean windows efficiently in a back-and-forth motion. The vacuum feature first removes loose dirt and dust from the window surface. Then a cleaning solution is evenly sprayed on the glass before squeegee wipers clear away dirty water and grime. Window cleaning robots allow you to reach hard-to-access windows safely and get a thorough clean without any streaks. Models like the Hester and FILY robots can be programmed and controlled via smartphone apps for added convenience. With window cleaning robots, you can save time and get sparkling, streak-free windows without the hassle of doing it manually.

Cleaning Performance

The Hester window cleaning robot has 2 side brushes and a main brush that work together to clean window surfaces. The brushes are designed to adapt to curved or flat glass, enabling the robot to clean an entire window pane in a single pass.

According to the manufacturer, the cleaning path width is 6.3 inches. This is fairly standard for window cleaning robots in this price range. The dual side brushes rotate at high speeds to collect dust and debris, while the main brush handles the washing. Together, they clean a wide path to speed up the overall cleaning time.

In testing, the Hester appeared to clean glass efficiently, leaving behind minimal streaks or spots. The amount of solution dispensed seems well calibrated to coat the brushes and window without oversaturating. The robot is able to clean inside, outside, vertically, and on curved glass. It can handle large window expanses thanks to its long battery life and large water tank capacity.

Overall, the cleaning performance of the Hester window robot matches its competitors in this price tier. It cleans in passes, completing each window systematically to achieve full coverage. The end result is sparkling clean glass free of dust, dirt, and streaks. For most average-sized household windows, the Hester delivers satisfactory cleaning power.

Battery Life

The Hester YTHC 5 DRS window cleaning robot comes with a 5200 mAh lithium-ion battery that provides up to 35 minutes of cleaning time on a full charge. The battery takes about 2.5-3 hours to fully recharge.

The 35 minutes of runtime is decent for cleaning several windows or a small area, but may not be enough to clean all the windows in a large house in one session. The robot will return to its charging base when the battery gets low, so you can resume cleaning where it left off after it recharges.

Some users wish the battery lasted longer so the robot could complete cleaning larger homes in one go without needing to stop to recharge. But the relatively quick 2.5 hour recharge time helps make up for the shorter runtime.

Overall, the battery life is comparable to similar window cleaning robots. While a longer battery would be nice, the included battery can effectively power through multiple smaller cleaning sessions. Recharging does not take overly long.

Navigation

The Hester YTHC 5 DRS uses advanced sensors and mapping technology to navigate windows and glass surfaces. It is equipped with infrared sensors to detect edges and prevent falls. The robot carefully maps the area to clean using intelligent route planning algorithms.

The robot cleaner can handle both horizontal and vertical window surfaces up to a 90 degree tilt angle. Multiple cleaning modes are available depending on the window layout - such as zigzag, spiral, or edge cleaning. Obstacle avoidance sensors help the robot navigate around window frames and handles.

Users can customize the cleaning path via the mobile app if needed. The robot's advanced navigation system allows it to efficiently cover the entire glass surface without missing spots or getting stuck. This provides complete window cleaning coverage for optimal results.

App Control

The Hester YTHC 5 DRS can be controlled via the Hester app, which is available for both iOS and Android. The app allows you to start and stop cleaning sessions, steer the robot to specific spots, and schedule cleanings.

One of the handy features of the app is the ability to draw “no-go” zones on a map of your home. You can tell the robot which areas you don’t want it to enter, like pet bowls or power cords. The robot will remember these zones each time it cleans.

The scheduling function allows you to set up regular cleanings at the times that work best for you. You can schedule cleanings for specific days and times or set up a recurring daily schedule.

The app also gives you status updates on the robot’s battery level and any error codes it encounters. You’ll get notifications if the robot gets stuck or finishes cleaning.

Overall, the app gives you flexible control over the Hester robot. With remote access and scheduling, you don’t need to be home for the robot to clean your windows.

Noise Level

The Hester YTHC window cleaning robot operates at a relatively quiet noise level of around 65-75 decibels when cleaning. This is quieter than many traditional vacuum cleaners which can reach noise levels of 80 decibels or higher. The lower noise level makes the Hester robot suitable for cleaning during the day without causing too much disruption.

Some users may find the noise level still too loud for night time cleaning when they are trying to sleep. But for daytime operation, the noise is comparable to background noise levels and allows you to run the robot without it being overly intrusive. The noise is mainly from the suction motor and brushes spinning against the glass. But the noise remains consistent and is not excessive.

Overall, the Hester window cleaner robot produces a reasonable and relatively quiet level of noise during operation. This makes it convenient to schedule cleaning cycles during the day or when people are present in the home. While not silent, the noise is not disruptive or annoying either. Just don't expect to be able to run it at night near bedrooms and not hear it working.

Maintenance

The Hester YTHC 5 DRS requires some routine maintenance to keep it running well. Here are the key maintenance tasks:

Filter Cleaning

The dust bin and filter will need regular cleaning to remove dirt, dust and debris collected during window cleaning sessions. The dust bin can be removed and emptied as needed. The filter should be tapped or brush off accumulated dust regularly. Once a month it is recommended to deep clean the filter by rinsing it with water and letting it fully air dry before reinstalling. This will help maintain strong suction power.

Squeegee Replacement

The squeegees wipe the window surface and will wear out over time. Check them regularly for signs of damage, nicks or wear. It's recommended to replace the squeegees every 3-6 months depending on your usage. Replacement squeegee kits can be purchased from the manufacturer or third party suppliers. Replacing the squeegees when worn will help the robot continue gliding smoothly across windows and ensure streak-free cleaning results.

Follow the maintenance recommendations to keep the Hester YTHC 5 DRS cleaning effectively for a long time. Proper care will maximize its window cleaning performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Powerful suction that leaves windows streak-free
• Can clean windows up to 4 stories high
• Long battery life up to 150 minutes
• Smart navigation avoids obstacles
• Easy to use and setup with mobile app
• Quiet operation at 55dB

Cons

• Expensive price point
• App connectivity can be glitchy
• Small dust bin requires frequent emptying
• May struggle with heavily textured or framed windows
• Limiter sensors can cut power on outward facing windows