iRobot Roomba Robot Vacuum Not Cleaning or Connecting

iRobot Roomba j7+ and j9+ robot vacuums feature intelligent navigation and automatic dirt disposal. This guide covers common cleaning and connectivity issues.

Common Symptoms

  • Roomba not starting cleaning jobs
  • Getting stuck frequently
  • Not returning to base
  • WiFi connection issues
  • Clean Base not emptying
  • Poor cleaning performance

Basic Troubleshooting

1. Check Battery

  • Place Roomba on Home Base to charge
  • Battery icon in app shows level
  • Full charge takes about 2 hours
  • Wait until fully charged before cleaning

2. Clear Errors

  • Check app for error messages
  • Press CLEAN button to see LED errors
  • Refer to error code in manual or app

3. Reboot Roomba

  1. Press and hold CLEAN button 10 seconds
  2. Roomba will restart
  3. Wait for startup tone
  4. Try cleaning again

Navigation Issues

Getting Stuck Frequently

  • Remove loose cables and small objects from floor
  • Set up Keep Out Zones in iRobot app
  • Ensure adequate lighting for camera navigation
  • Check wheels for debris

j7/j9 Obstacle Avoidance

PrecisionVision Navigation features:

  • Camera identifies and avoids obstacles
  • Works best in well-lit rooms
  • May struggle with very dark objects
  • Update firmware for latest improvements

Not Returning to Base

  • Ensure Home Base is against wall on hard floor
  • Clear 4ft in front, 1.5ft on sides of base
  • Check IR sensors on Roomba and base are clean
  • Verify base has power (LED indicator)

Clean Base (Auto-Empty) Issues

Not Emptying

  • Check bag installation (j7+/j9+)
  • Verify bag isn't full
  • Clean evacuation port on Roomba
  • Ensure Roomba is docked properly

Bag Full Errors

  • Replace AllergenLock bag when full
  • Don't reuse disposable bags
  • Bags last approximately 60 days

Cleaning Performance

Poor Pickup

  • Empty dustbin if not using Clean Base
  • Clean filter (rinse and dry weekly)
  • Check brushes for hair tangles
  • Replace worn brushes and filter

Missing Areas

  • Let Roomba learn home with multiple runs
  • Review Smart Maps in app
  • Set room-specific clean zones
  • Improve lighting in dark rooms

WiFi Connectivity

Setup Requirements

  • 2.4GHz WiFi required
  • Download iRobot Home app
  • Create iRobot account
  • Place Roomba near router during setup

Reconnecting to WiFi

  1. Open iRobot app > Robot Settings
  2. Select WiFi Settings
  3. Follow prompts to reconnect
  4. May need to factory reset for new network

Smart Home Integration

Alexa/Google

  • Link iRobot account in Alexa/Google Home
  • "Alexa, ask Roomba to start cleaning"
  • "Hey Google, tell Roomba to go home"

Factory Reset

  1. Press and hold Home + Spot Clean + CLEAN buttons
  2. Hold until light ring swirls
  3. Roomba will reset to factory settings
  4. Remove from app and re-add

When to Contact Support

Contact iRobot support if:

  • Roomba won't charge
  • Persistent error codes
  • Wheel or brush motor issues
  • Camera/sensor hardware problems