Robot vacuum cleaners have become essential in our homes. From pet hair to everyday dust, these devices keep floors clean with minimal hands-on help. But like any tool, a robot vacuum needs regular maintenance to continue operating at peak performance and to avoid early retirement.

Fortunately, the steps to extending the life of your vacuum cleaner are simple, and many of them come directly recommended by manufacturers. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of your robot cleaner.

1. Clean it regularly and it will clean longer

Brushes, rollers and wheels are where dust and debris accumulate the most, making them critical maintenance points. Buildup of dirt and hair can reduce suction and potentially damage the engine. Most manufacturers suggest cleaning these components weekly if you have pets or every other week for homes without furry companions.

Brushes and rollers will likely see the most action and cleaning them thoroughly will prevent tangles that could prevent them from spinning properly. Simply remove them, detangle the hair and dry it. Wheels can also accumulate dirt over time, so it’s worth cleaning them once with a cloth to ensure they continue to roll smoothly.

Related: Your Roomba is dirty. Here’s how to clean it completely

Ben Patterson/Foundry

And don’t forget the sensors. They may seem like just a small part of the system, but if they’re stained with dust, your robot vacuum may start missing spots or hitting furniture more often. A simple wipe with a soft, dry cloth is enough.

2. Take care of the battery

Batteries don’t last forever, but if used correctly, you can significantly extend their lifespan. Most robot vacuums today use lithium-ion batteries, which benefit from partial discharges rather than running down to 0%. Manufacturers like iRobot and Narwal recommend avoiding frequent deep discharges, as this can reduce battery life.

Over time, even the best-maintained battery will lose capacity, but you’ll know when it’s time to replace yours. If your vacuum’s battery life is half of what it was out of the box, that’s a clear sign that the battery is worn out. Fortunately, many manufacturers make battery replacement easy, so you don’t necessarily have to remove the entire vacuum when the battery dies.

3. Don’t let the trash can overflow

One of the simplest, yet most important, tasks of robot vacuum maintenance is keeping the trash can empty. A full trash can not only reduces suction, but can also force the motor to work harder, leading to premature wear.

Most robot vacuums have sensors that alert you when the bin is full, but it’s a good habit to empty it after each cleaning session, or as often as the manufacturer suggests.

Michael Ansaldo/Foundry

If your vacuum cleaner has an auto-drain feature, don’t assume it’s maintenance-free. The base station that collects debris from the vacuum requires occasional attention.

While manufacturers promise a month or more of dusting before needing to replace the dust bag on these docks, the frequency of replacement depends largely on your cleaning habits and your environment. It is best to periodically check the bin or bag inside the station and replace it if necessary, rather than relying on the manufacturer’s specifications.

Keeping the area around the base station clean will also ensure that your vacuum connects and empties without issue.

Related: Our best choices for robot vacuum cleaners and moppers in 2024

4. Keep the software up to date

Just like your smartphone or computer, your robot vacuum benefits from regular software updates. Manufacturers frequently roll out firmware improvements that fix bugs, improve navigation, and optimize battery life.

Although most vacuums update automatically through their apps, it’s worth checking periodically to make sure yours is running the latest version.

5. Optimize the environment

Optimizing your home layout paves the way for efficient cleaning. Clear the vacuum’s path of small objects, toys and loose cords that could cause tangles or jams.

Also, don’t forget to take advantage of your vacuum’s virtual walls or no-go zones: configure them in the app to protect delicate areas and prevent the vacuum from getting stuck under furniture. These numerical limits, combined with a clutter-free space, help your vacuum cleaner clean more efficiently while reducing wear and tear on its components.

iRobot

6. Replace consumable parts regularly

While cleaning the components of your robot vacuum will help keep it in good working order, some parts have a natural lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. Filters, brushes and rollers wear out over time, which can lead to reduced cleaning performance if not replaced regularly.

Most manufacturers provide specific timelines for replacing these parts, but if you notice that your vacuum isn’t picking up as much dirt as before or is making more noise than usual, it’s probably time to replace it.

Stick to using manufacturer parts or compatible third-party parts that meet the same specifications. This helps maintain optimal performance and avoids any warranty issues. Replacing parts is usually simple and can go a long way in keeping your vacuum cleaner running efficiently for years to come.

Related: 8 Robot Vacuum Tips: Try These Essential Tips ASAP

7. Properly maintain and store the docking station

When your vacuum isn’t cleaning, it’s either charging or idle in its dock. Keep the area around the dock clean and make sure your vacuum has a clear path home after cleaning. This ensures efficient charging and prevents unnecessary wear and tear due to unsuccessful docking attempts.

If you will not use your robot vacuum for an extended period of time, whether due to vacation or cleaning interruption, store it in a cool, dry place. Batteries can degrade more quickly in extreme temperatures, so keeping the vacuum away from heat sources or humidity can help preserve its lifespan. Manufacturers recommend storing the vacuum with a partially charged battery, around 50%, to avoid battery damage over time.

Ben Patterson/Foundry

8. Know when to repair or replace the robot

Despite your best efforts, things can go wrong. Fortunately, many basic repairs, like replacing a brush or fixing a stuck wheel, can be done at home. Manufacturers usually offer detailed instructions for these repairs, and it’s worth consulting the user manual or online guides for help.

However, for more complex issues like faulty sensors or electrical issues, professional repairs may be necessary. Many manufacturers offer repair services or can recommend certified technicians, ensuring that your vacuum cleaner is in good hands.

Knowing when to repair and when to replace your vacuum cleaner is crucial. If repairs become frequent and costly, it may be time to consider upgrading to a new model.

Smart care, longer life

A robot vacuum cleaner is an investment in the cleanliness of your home and your free time. With these simple maintenance habits, you can protect this investment and keep your robotic assistant performing at peak performance for years to come.