Robot vacuums make keeping your floor clean much easier. Just schedule it and forget it — but after a while, you might start to notice your vacuum is less efficient. Like any home appliance, robot vacuums require occasional maintenance and cleaning to remove tangled hair from the brush, refresh the filter, clear large debris from the dust bin, and more.
The good news is that robot vacuums are easy to clean, which has the benefit of extending its life. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your robot vacuum and ensuring it provides the best performance every time.
Remove tangled hair from the brush
The main roller brush in your robot vacuum attracts a lot of hair. Many robot vacuum companies include a small cleaning tool or blade for cutting hair away from the brush, but not all. Even if the company includes a tool, a pair of kitchen scissors is often all you need to clean up the hair.
The hair won’t be just on the bristles, though. Hair accumulates and can become tangled at either end of the brush. On most robot vacuums, there is a lever to the side of the brush that can be lifted up to release it. Pull the brush free of the robot vacuum and manually pull away any hair that has built up there.
Clean the cliff and bump sensors
The cliff and bumper sensors on every robot vacuum assist in navigation. The cliff sensor alerts the vacuum when it nears the edge of a step or stair to prevent it from going over, while the bump sensor helps it navigate around obstacles and along walls.
If dust and grime builds up on these sensors, it can interfere with the operation of the robot vacuum. Although every robot vacuum differs slightly, most of the sensors are readily visible. If your robot vacuum has specific cleaning instructions, follow them. In most cases, wiping the sensors down with a soft, dry cloth is enough.
Check the wheels
Make sure the wheels are not damaged or blocked by anything. Press down lightly on the wheel to test how easily it moves. Use a Q-tip or small brush to clean dirt and debris from the wheel well and from the wheel itself.
If something stops the wheel from moving, try and remove the blockage. Do not attempt to remove the wheel itself unless the manufacturer specifically allows it; otherwise, you risk voiding the warranty.
Clean the filter
The filter improves the air quality of your home and catches a lot of smaller particles and debris. You can clean the filter by removing it from your vacuum and tapping it on the side of a trash can or bag to dislodge any loose dirt.
You can also use a soft-bristled brush to clean the filter more thoroughly. However, don’t let it get wet. Most filters are made of paper products and are easily damaged by moisture. You should replace the filter every six months or so.
Remove debris from the dustbin
A self-emptying robot vacuum will rid itself of most debris each time it docks. However, larger pieces of debris like cardboard and paper can often become clogged and block the base from working.
Remove any large pieces of debris from the dust bin and clean the interior with a soft cloth. This ensures the suction level remains the same and stops other potential problems in their tracks. It’s much easier to pull something out of the dustbin than it is to fish it out of the base station.
File a warranty claim for defects
If the problem derives from a defect in your robot vacuum and not because it needs cleaning, as long as the robot vacuum is under warranty, you can file a claim to have the product repaired or replaced with an equivalent product.
In most cases, you would contact your local distributor. If you aren’t sure where to take your robot vacuum, go to the brand’s website and contact customer service. You will need to present your original proof of purchase when you file a warranty claim.
App maintenance
Some brands, like Roborock, will alert you when it is time to change a filter or clean the vacuum through the app. Sometimes the app will even alert you when it is time to replace a sensor. Apps that include details like this take the thought out of maintaining your robot vacuum.
If your robot vacuum doesn’t perform as well as it once did, it might be time to clean it. The process takes a little bit of time but isn’t overly complicated. Performing regular cleanings will extend the life of the device and ensure more efficient cleaning cycles.
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