Let us face it, robot vacuums are a godsend. They save us time and energy, and do a great job of keeping our floors clean. But sometimes, these smart devices can be a pain in the neck, especially when they suddenly come to a halt. You're left scratching your head, wondering what went wrong! The culprit behind robotic vacuum cleaners stopping can be hardware issues like clogged brushes and wheels, outdated software or incorrect user handling. This step-by-step guide will detail the most common reasons that vacuum robots stop and how to prevent it from happening in the future.
What Are The Common Causes Of Robot Vacuum Stopping?
Robot vacuums stop in the middle of a cleaning session for various reasons, it could be simple power and clogged issues, or more complex sensor malfunctions or software glitches.
Insufficient Battery Life
One of the most frequent reasons a robot vacuum stops is simply due to a low battery or poor battery health. If the battery is low or deteriorating, the vacuum may not complete its cleaning cycle. Perhaps obvious, this is the first issue to check. Fully charge the vacuum after each use and if the battery no longer holds a charge, consider replacing it.
Tangled Brushes, Clogged Suction and Wheel Obstructions
Physical blockages, whether it is hair tangled around the brushes, clogged suction inlets, or debris caught in the wheels, can make your vacuum to stop. To prevent these interruptions, regular maintenance such as untangling the brushes and emptying the dustbin is necessary. High-end models like DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI feature ZeroTangle 2.0 Anti-tangle Technology in the brush design and AIVI 3D 3.0 Omni-Approach obstacle avoidance technology to minimize these issues.
Faulty Motors
A failing motor may no longer be able to power the vacuum’s movement, leading it to struggle to move or stop altogether. This issue is more commonly seen in budget models with lower-quality components and it is hard to resolve by yourself. Hence, if the wheels or brush motors are not responding, send the vacuum back to the manufacturer for replacement.
Obstacle Detection and Sensor Issues
Robot vacuums rely on sensors to navigate, but dirt and dust buildup can block the lens and stop the vacuum unnecessarily. Clean the sensors can help, including the cliff sensors on the bottom that prevent the vacuum from falling down stairs.
Navigation Mapping Errors
Advanced robot vacuums like DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI use multiple sensors, such as LiDAR, as well as AI-powered algorithms to map your home. When there is an error in the mapping system, the machine may not be able to locate itself and thus get stuck in the same spots or stop unexpectedly. Recalibrating the map or resetting the navigation system in the app to resolve these issues.
Carpet and Rug Height Issues
Some robot vacuums struggle with going over carpets, particularly when transitioning from hard floors to thick carpets. In this case, check the machine’s climbing ability; for instance, DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI can handle heights up to 0.79 inches1, which is sufficient for most carpets and rugs.
Software or Firmware Issues
Outdated or buggy software, on the other hand, can lead to unexpected stops. Consider the firmware as the “brain” of the device – if it’s not functioning properly, it won’t be able to guide the vacuum. Keeping the software updated ensures smoother operation, or perform a factory reset.
Software Glitches in Smart Home Integration
Is your vacuum connected to a smart home system like Siri or Google Home? Compatibility issues with voice assistants or automation routines might cause the device to stop unexpectedly. Try disabling and reconnecting the device in your smart home app and checking for firmware updates.
Wi-Fi Connectivity Problems
Smart vacuums connect to the app via Wi-Fi, more specifically, using either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz band. The 2.4GHz band has better coverage and penetration through walls and doors, while the 5GHz band provides faster responses for real-time navigation and obstacle avoidance. A weak connection can impact performance, so try moving the router closer.
The Bin Needs Emptying
Many people are unaware that an overstuffed dustbin can trigger automatic stops in robot vacuums, more commonly within budget models with smaller bins. DEEBOT robot vacuums, such as the X8 PRO OMNI, T50 MAX PRO OMNI and N30 PRO OMNI, come with auto-empty stations that minimize the frequency for manual emptying.
Overheating
Overheating in a robotic vacuum cleaner is often set off by clogged filters, blocked airflow, or prolonged operation on thick carpets, triggering the device to shut down to prevent motor damage. Allowing the vacuum to cool down and cleaning the filters regularly can help prevent overheating.
Bumper Stuck Issues
Your smart vacuum may stop mid-cleaning if its bumper gets stuck. The bumper acts as a safety mechanism, guiding the device to change direction when it detects obstacles. Remove the anti-collision protection strip, then lightly tap the left, middle and right sides of the bumper to check if it rebounds normally. If the bumper doesn’t move freely, clean around it and restart the vacuum.
Do Not Disturb Mode is Turned On
"Do Not Disturb" mode override any accidental or automated tasks of the vacuum, therefore, voice prompts, lights and scheduled cleaning routines will be disabled when it’s turned on. When your robot vacuum did not clean at the scheduled time, disable the “Do Not Disturb” mode in the app. Then, ensure the robot is powered on and fully charged, and that cleaning tasks are properly scheduled and saved.
Tips For Troubleshooting A Frequently Stopping Robot Vacuum
If your robot vacuum keeps stopping unexpectedly, you can first check the machine itself to diagnose the issue, whether it's a low battery, dirty sensors, or clogged brushes. Next, check the software and internet connection. If everything is working properly, test for height issues in different rooms or try resetting the vacuum to factory settings.
Check Battery Levels and Charging
Before diagnosing for more deep-rooted problems, ensure the robot vacuum is properly charged. Some accompanying mobile apps, such as ECOVACS HOME app, allow you to check the automatic vacuum’s battery life and that the battery is functioning optimally.
Inspect And Clean Sensors
The next step in diagnosing your robot floor cleaner is to wipe the sensors, which are mostly located on the front and bottom of the machine, with a soft, dry cloth to remove any smudges. For DEEBOT users, you can then test each individual sensor on the app to make they’re working correctly.
Clear the Brushes And Suction
Make sure the robot is powered off and use something thin and sturdy, like a soft toothbrush, to remove hair or fibers that may have got caught in the main or side brushes. Carefully use the toothbrush to clear any clogs in the suction system. Then, power the vacuum on to check if it runs normally.
Software/Firmware Updates
There may also be a compatibility issue with the device and its software. You can fix this by visiting Google Play or App Store and check if there are any pending updates to the ECOVACS HOME app.
Move the Robot & Test Different Rooms
If your robot vacuum frequently stops in the same area, the issue might be with the environment rather than the device itself. Uneven flooring, thick carpets, or high thresholds can interfere with movement. Run the vacuum in a different room to test if it works without interruptions. You may even adjust furniture layout or setting virtual boundaries and no-go zones to help.
Reset to Factory Settings
If none of the above solutions work, a factory reset restores default settings and fix unresponsive behaviors. If you’re a DEEBOT owner, open the cover and put the switch in the ‘I’ position. Then, press and hold the “reset” button for 5 seconds, until you will hear a voice prompt followed by startup music, indicating that the factory reset is completed.
Check Error Codes & LED Indicators
Newer smart vacuums display error codes or LED lights when something is wrong. Consult your user manual or the manufacturer’s app to understand these signals, whether it is a blocked wheel, dirty sensors or a full dustbin.
Preventive Measures and Best Practices for Smart Vacuums
Proper care and maintenance can vastly avoid your robot vacuum from stopping mid-cleaning, while keeping a consistent weekly and monthly maintenance routine will also help your vacuum run smoothly for years. Meanwhile, making sure the environment is safe and hazard-free will allow the vacuum to operate without interruptions.
Regular Maintenance Schedule
One of the best ways to prevent your robot vacuum from stopping unexpectedly is to establish a consistent cleaning and maintenance routine. This not only helps the vacuum run smoothly but also lengthen its lifespan. Generally, a basic maintenance schedule includes washing the filter every 1–2 weeks and replacing it every six months, unclogging the main brush and parts and wiping away dirt once a month.
The ECOVACS HOME app allows users to monitor the wear of various components, so you can easily troubleshoot any common problems of your DEEBOT robot vacuum and order replacements when needed.
Proper Placement of the Charging Dock
Store the docking station of your auto vacuum in an open area to provide enough space for the vacuum to return and recharge between cleaning cycles. Place it near Wi-Fi routers for a stable internet connection, close to power sockets for charging, and in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
Take Care of Battery Health
Overrunning the vacuum, letting the battery fully exhaust before recharging, or placing the charging dock in extreme temperatures can gradually degrade the battery. To maintain battery health, charge the vacuum at regular intervals, avoid letting the battery drain completely, and store the charging dock is in an area with proper ventilation.
DEEBOT robot vacuums are further equipped with Continuous Clean function, which automatically returns to the dock to recharge when running low and then resumes cleaning where it left off.
Avoid Running on Wet Floors
Robot vacuums are designed to vacuum dry surfaces, and exposure to liquids can damage their internal components. Cleaning up juice or coffee spills before running the vacuum can effectively prevent moisture from reaching the device’s sensors and electronic parts.
Consider upgrading to a robot vacuum with mopping, such as DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI, which can mop away wet debris from the floor without damaging the machine.
Secure Loose Cables and Small Objects
Loose cables and small objects on the floor can become entangled in a vacuum’s brushes or wheels, causing it to stop unexpectedly. It’s a good idea to remove them before starting a cleaning cycle. Otherwise, opt for a robot vacuum that can avoid cords and work around other tiny obstacles.
Three DEEBOT Robot Vacuums That Do Not Stop
DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI
The flagship model of the DEEBOT X series – X8 PRO OMNI handles hair tangles properly with ZeroTangle 2.0 Anti-Tangle Technology, thanks to the 3V Anti-Tangle System with a 45° V-shaped bristle design and comb teeth that prevent hair tangles. Moreover, AIVI 3D 3.0 Omni-Approach Technology uses deep learning to detect obstacles in real-time, allowing the vacuum to navigate smoothly around furniture, edges and even moving obstacles like opening doors and running dogs with precision. The upgraded OMNI auto-empty station further helps prevent an overstuffed dustbin from causing sudden stops.
DEEBOT T50 MAX PRO OMNI
DEEBOT T50 MAX PRO OMNI’s Boosted Large-Airflow Suction Technology provides an impressive 16.3L airflow and 18,500 Pa suction2, efficiently picking up 100% of large particles and offering 80% better carpet cleaning3. The ZeroTangle 2.0 Technology keeps the brush clog-free by actively gathering and untangling hair with its Triple V-shaped structures. Plus, AIVI 3D 3.0 OMNI-Approach Technology detects obstacles and dynamically plans efficient paths to help the vacuum adapt to changing environments without unnecessary stops.
DEEBOT N30 PRO OMNI
Another powerful DEEBOT vacuum that does not stop is the DEEBOT N30 PRO OMNI. Its ZeroTangle 2.0 Anti-Tangle Technology actively lifts and untangles hair to prevent brush clogging, whie it can also cross barriers up to 0.79 inches4, sufficient for going over thresholds and high-pile carpets without getting stuck. The ECOVACS HOME App further allows users to set virtual barriers and no-go zones for garages and other cluttered areas that could potentially cause the robot vacuum to stop.
FAQ
Why does my robot vacuum keep turning off?
Robot vacuum cleaners may keep turning off due to an unhealthy battery, sensor or motor issues, or an obstruction in the brush, suction or wheels. Furthermore, they may require software updates, Wi-Fi reconnection, emptying a full dustbin, or simply cooling down from overheating.
Should you run a robot vacuum every day?
The best ways to keep a smart vacuum from suddenly stopping are to regularly maintain and clean the device, having a consistent charging routine, and placing the vacuum station in a well ventilated, open area conducive to easy docking and undocking.
How can I fix my robot vacuum frequently stopping?
There’s nothing wrong with using an automatic vacuum every day, especially if users have set a regular cleaning routine that runs even when the homeowners aren’t at home, but ensure that the robot has the chance to fully charge and is functioning smoothly before doing so you’re not exacerbating any issues.
What should I do if my robot vacuum keeps getting stuck?
If your robot vacuum keeps getting stuck, start by checking the machine for low battery, tangled brushes, clogged suction or wheel obstructions. Proceed to inspect sensor and navigation system if they are clean and functional. Update software and check Wi-Fi connectivity. Lastly, assess the environment, as height issues, an overflowing bin or overheating can all cause interruptions.
Disclaimer(s):
- 0.79 inches: This data comes from ECOVACS laboratory.
- 18,500 Pa: This data comes from ECOVACS laboratory. The suction power of DEEBOT T50 MAX PRO OMNI can reach 18,500Pa.
- 100% Large Particles Pickup and 80% Better Carpet Cleaning: This refers to the sweeping function of ECOVACS DEEBOT T50 Family products, which can achieve 100% large particle pickup and utilize Boosted Large-Airflow Suction Technology to enhance fine dust cleaning efficiency on carpets by 80% in experimental scenarios. The data comes from the ECOVACS laboratory, and actual results may vary depending on home use.
- 0.79 inches: This data comes from ECOVACS laboratory.
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