Excellent news for iRobot users: on most models the battery can be replaced easily and quickly, and you can do it yourself. Before going through the replacement process, here is some background information on these robot vacuums.
Introducing the iRobot Roomba vacuum cleaner
Rapid technological development is transforming our everyday lives. While the general public follows advances in robots and AI, these technologies are quietly becoming part of our daily routines.
Robot vacuum cleaners have gone from being a gadget to an essential household helper in an increasing number of homes.
iRobot, as one of the first and most famous robot vacuum manufacturers, is often used by the public as the generic name for this category. The company has produced very popular models, whose aesthetics were inspired by space exploration vehicles. Interestingly, iRobot’s first robot, Genghis, was created in 1991 for space exploration missions.
From orbit to your living room
In 2002, two decades after developing its first robot, iRobot adapted its technology for the home market. The result was Roomba, its first robot vacuum cleaner.
Its original circular design has remained broadly similar to current versions. Since then, the company has added many improvements to refine its robots.
The most recent Roomba (launched at the end of 2018) is able to save ten home maps. In addition, its charging dock can empty the vacuum’s own dustbin. This self-emptying capability significantly reduces how often the user needs to intervene manually. Despite this sophistication, maintenance is still required, particularly for consumable parts.
Common issues with iRobot Roomba vacuums
The battery is a wear part and will eventually need to be replaced. That’s why charging problems are the most frequently reported: the robot does not turn on, or refuses to start its charging cycle.
This issue appears if the robot has been left unplugged from its dock for a long time. In that case, the battery may have gone into “deep sleep”, lost capacity, or become completely faulty.
Reactivating a sleeping battery
If the battery is simply in sleep mode, you can try to revive it by rebooting the robot:
- Press and hold the CLEAN button for about 20 seconds.
- The light ring around the button will start flashing white, indicating the reset.
- The vacuum has restarted successfully when the light goes out.
If, after this reset, the battery still will not charge, it is likely to be damaged and will need to be replaced.
Battery replacement process
Changing the battery is an easy task you can do at home. Before buying your new battery, it is crucial to go to a reputable retailer. Buying from a specialist shop such as BatteryLaptop (you can check the options here) guarantees you quality cells for optimal runtime from your vacuum.
Once you have the new part, follow these steps:
- Turn the robot over and place it on a stable surface.
- Using a screwdriver, undo and remove the lower cover.
- Remove any additional screws that may be holding the battery in place.
- Use the pull tab to lift out the old battery.
- Insert the new battery, making sure the logo is facing upwards.
- Refit the cover, checking that the sensors are precisely aligned.
After installing the new battery, place the robot on the dock. The light on the charging station should come on solid for about four seconds, then turn off.
The robot’s status light will confirm that it has recognised the new battery:
- A white light means there is enough charge for a cleaning session.
- A red light indicates that the vacuum needs to be recharged.
- If an error message appears at the same time as a red light, you should check what the message says.
- If the robot does not start charging, repeat the reboot procedure or contact iRobot support for assistance.
Fixing Wi‑Fi connection problems
Internet connection issues can also occur, usually after a password change or if the Wi‑Fi router is too far away.
Here are the steps to follow to restore the connection:
- The robot must be placed on its charging dock.
- In the app settings, update your Wi‑Fi network details.
- Force close the app, then reopen it and let the robot try to connect. If the connection works, a restart button will be displayed.
- After restarting the robot, restart your Wi‑Fi connection as well and close the app again.
- Restart the robot.
- Finally, reconnect the vacuum to the Wi‑Fi network.
