iRobot Roomba Vacuum Not Working FIX

iRobot Roomba Vacuum Not Working: What to Do? – DUP

ByShabbir Alam Hours Updated:

Dealing with a Roomba that suddenly does not work is annoying for homeowners who have to clean daily.

The dead battery, burnt motor, dirty sensors, trapped wheels, and internal software malfunction are some of the possible reasons why the Roomba vacuum not working.

You can fix the issue if you take action on the affected parts or simply reset the vacuum. To do so, I’ll show you the ultimate method in 5 steps below. Keep On Reading…

How to Fix a Roomba Vacuum Is Not Working!

How to Fix a Roomba Vacuum Is Not Working!

Troubleshooting the error in the Roomba vacuum that is not accessing or turning on can be a little challenging as you have to find the reason.

Below I have given 5 steps that will help you to fix the error easily. Gather the tools and start following the instruction:

Step 1: Inspect the Battery and Take Action

Change The Battery

Yeah, it’s possible for the vacuum to not act or respond when the battery is dead or needs replacement. To fix that, turn the vacuum off and do the given action:

  • Take out the side brush screw using a screwdriver or screw gun. Keep the brush and screw aside in a safe zone.
  • Detach 4 – 6 screws to take out the back cover/guard using the same tool.
  • Pull out the back cover/guard.
  • Locate the battery compartment on the front side. The battery usually is green, yellow, or neon in shade.
  • Hold and press the tab upward to detach the battery from it.
  • Insert the new one and secure it by letting the tab go.
  • Cover the back using a guard. Place 4 – 6 screws on each hole on the back cover and tighten them using the screwdriver.
  • Put on the side brush and insert the screw. Tighten it out using the same tool.
  • Check if the Roomba acts well or not.

check out: Roomba Not Vacuuming Entire Floor

Step 2: Replace the Vacuum Motor

Maybe the device doesn’t act due to the Roomba vacuum motor not working. In this case, you have to replace it. Let me show you the procedure:

  • Take a screw gun or screwdriver to remove all the bolts from the vacuum back area.
  • Remove the back cover from the front and rear sections.
  • Detach the 2 brushes from the vacuum. Then, take out the exterior cover of the brushes.
  • Unscrew the 2 bolts using the same tool on each wheel.
  • Take out the left and right wheels.
  • Locate the motor which is below the left side wheel.
  • Detach the 2 plugs that are connected.
  • Unscrew one bolt to remove the motor from the vacuum.
  • Inspect the motor carefully to see if the wire or itself contains burn marks.
  • Take out the 2 screws from the motor compartment to reach the motor. If it contains burn marks, then insert a new motor and secure it by attaching 2 screws.
  • Place the motor compartment and insert one screw using the screw gun or screwdriver.
  • Attach the 2 plugs to ensure a safe connection.
  • Place the 2 wheels and secure them by inserting the screws on both sides.
  • Put on the 2 brushes back to their place.
  • Insert the back and front cover. Secure them by attaching the screws. Ensure all bolts are attached.
  • Test the vacuum if it turns on or not.

Step 3: Clean the Sensors

Clean the iRobot Roomba Sensors

One of the common reasons why the Roomba doesn’t work can be related to sensors that signal the device to turn on. 

Flip your device and inspect whether all sensors contain a terrible amount of dirt stuck on them or not. If they have grime, then do the given steps:

  • Turn the device off.
  • Turn it over and locate the 6 cliff sensors on the edge with 2 bin sensors on the dust container area.
  • Take a soft microfiber cloth to wipe out the sensors properly.
  • Look at the top section to find 2 Robot contact points that are silver in shade (on the left and right sides of the front caster wheel).
  • After cleaning all the parts, check if the vacuum works or not.

Related: iRobot Roomba Not Vacuuming

Step 4: Wipe the Wheels or Replace them

A lot of time the Roomba doesn’t turn on when the wheels are trapped or have an internal issue. In that case, you should follow the given directions:

  • Turn your vacuum in the Off position and plug it out from the charging base.
  • Flip it over.
  • Use a screwdriver to take out all the bolts (in total 6 – 8) including the side brush.
  • Pull out the back cover that hides the internal section.
  • Again, use the same tool to take out the 2 screws on each side.
  • Remove the left and right wheels.
  • Grab a small brush to clean both wheels properly. Plus, clean the surface using a clean rag.
  • Put everything back to place by doing the opposite of removal.
  • Turn the device on to check if it works or not.
  • If it doesn’t solve the issue, then simply take out both wheels and insert a new pair.
  • Then, test it out.

Step 5: Reset the Vacuum Cleaner

Factory Reset iRobot Roomba

Next, you need to soft and hard reset your Roomba so that it can regain the actual settings it used to have. Here’s how to do it in the right way:

Soft Reset Using One Or More Buttons

Roomba 600, 800, & 900 Series:
  • Switch your vacuum out of the charging base.
  • Click and hold the CLEAN button for around 10 seconds to clear the data like cleaning time schedules, time (clock), and software bugs.
  • Wait for some while until you hear the beep sound that indicates a soft reset.
Roomba 600 & 800 Series (Wi-Fi Included ):
  • Press and hold the DOCK + SPOT buttons for 10 seconds.
  • Do not release the buttons until all the lights turn off.
  • When leaving the buttons, you’ll find a slight beep that ensures a successful reboot.
Roomba S & I Series:
  • Click and hold the HOME + SPOT + CLEAN buttons for 10 seconds.
  • Leave the buttons when the white light rings around the CLEAN button swirls. It indicates a reboot.
Roomba J Series:
  • Press the dust bin release button.
  • Slide the dust container from the vacuum.
  • Press and hold the CLEAN button for 7 seconds.
  • Do not release the buttons until the vacuum plays a tone.
  • Click the CLEAN button again to confirm the reboot.
Roomba E Series:
  • Hit the HOME + SPOT buttons for around 10 – 20 seconds and do not release it.
  • Keep on pressing the buttons until all indicators turn off. You’ll hear a beep that ensures reboot.

Hard Reset Using iRobot HOME App

This reset will remove all the saved connections and data (on the cloud or other platforms). Keep in mind this reset is only available for Wi-Fi-connected Roomba vacuums. Here’s the procedure:

  1. Open the Wi-Fi and ensure the network is connected to your Roomba vacuum. Be sure to turn on Bluetooth to connect your Roomba vacuum.
  2. Turn on your iRobot HOME app on your phone.
  3. Click the Settings > Factory Reset (Robot name) bar.
  4. Wait for the device to reset.
  5. Then, when you hear the beep turn on your vacuum to see if it turns on or not.
  • Note:

If your Roomba still is not working after doing the above 5 steps, then it’s time to get help from the iRobot support service to fix the error.

Are There Any Preventative Measures to Stop a Roomba from Getting Stuck?

Roombas are advanced robotic vacuum cleaners that autonomously navigate and clean your home. To prevent common Roomba stuck issues, there are a few preventative measures you can take. Clearing the area of small objects, securing loose cords, and using virtual walls can help avoid obstacles. Additionally, regular maintenance and cleaning, such as keeping the sensors and brushes free from debris, will contribute to fixing common roomba stuck issues. Following the manufacturer’s tide cleaning instructions can also help prevent your Roomba from getting stuck. This may include emptying the dustbin regularly, checking for blockages, and removing excess hair and dirt from the brushes. By staying proactive with these preventative measures, you can ensure that your Roomba operates smoothly and effectively in maintaining a clean home.

Ending Notes

Now, get the needed stuff and follow the directions given above when the Roomba vacuum not working. Hope the given details are clear enough that you understand them properly to try and solve the bugs.

Catch You Later, Adios!

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Shabbir Alam
House Cleaning Expert
Shabbir Alam
Hi, I'm Shabbir. I love to play with cleaning tools. In fact, I worked with companies that provided house cleaning services - and that's where I got my start playing with all sorts of different cleaning tools! With a background in vacuum cleaning, floor cleaning, and carpet cleaning, I provide innovative cleaning strategies for my clients.
Expertise: Vacuum cleaner, Robotic vacuum cleaner, Floor cleaning, Carpet cleaning, Cleaning agent

Hi, I'm Shabbir. I love to play with cleaning tools. In fact, I worked with companies that provided house cleaning services - and that's where I got my start playing with all sorts of different cleaning tools!

With a background in vacuum cleaning, floor cleaning, and carpet cleaning, I provide innovative cleaning strategies for my clients.