How do I Troubleshoot a Roomba Pro?

Common problems experienced with the Roomba Pro consist of the battery working for a short time or will not hold a charge, the wheels get stuck or the Roomba does not sense obstacles. The diagnostic mode is useful in narrowing down the possible problem. There are 10 modes the Roomba will cycle through with various beeps and flashing of lights. In diagnostic mode, count the number of beeps to know which mode it is checking, sensor or motor. If you find the battery will not hold a charge, then replace with a new one.

Instructions

1. Replace the battery if it is not holding a charge. For example, if it does not complete a cleaning cycle it is time to replace it. Consider purchasing a second battery so if one battery needs replacing and/or charging you have another one to put into the Roomba.

2. Turn off the Roomba Pro and check for debris collecting around the wheels, sensors or the brushes.

3. Turn the wheels manually if they seem to get stuck. This loosens any dirt or other small objects that may be lodged around the wheels. If the wheels remain difficult to move, clean them with compressed air and then push the Roomba forward and back to check for smooth movement.

4. Open the brush guard to remove the brushes. Turn on the Roomba and listen to the sound of the motor running. If you hear noises such as clicks or a thumping sound, the motor needs repairing. If there is no sound, this area may be clogged with the dirt, pet hair or strings.

5. Look for obstacles, such as the window to the sensor being dirty and wipe with a soft cloth. Check the bumper sensors to see if they are balanced by placing one hand on each side and gently pushing down. The Roomba will spring back if working properly. If not, clean all areas from collection of dirt, wipe the sensor windows and then place in a new location.

6. Use the diagnostic mode to narrow down the possible problem. Disconnect from the charging station and with the power off, hold down the three "S, M, L" buttons at the same time. Now press the power button quickly and wait a few seconds. Once you hear a musical scale and see a color of lights, start the diagnostic mode (there are 10 modes). Use the "L" button to move forward through the sequence and "S" button to move backward. As you move through each mode, you hear a series of beeps. Mode 1 checks the bumpers and wall. Modes 2-3 check the left and right sides of the cliff sensors. Mode 4 checks the extension of wheels the virtual wall and remote. Mode 5-6 check if the wheels rotate and the optical rotor. Mode 7 checks the brush motor in the base. Mode 8 checks the vacuum motor. Mode 9 checks the side rotor brush and Mode 10 checks the lights. When finished with the diagnostic mode, press the power on/off to exit.

References

• iRobot: Roomba