Roomba Clean Base Not Working [SOLVED!]

If you own an iRobot Roomba vacuum cleaner equipped with a Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal, you’re probably familiar with the convenience it offers.

But what happens when your Roomba isn’t properly evacuating debris or communicating with the Clean Base?

We have gathered all the potential issues and their solutions to help you out.

Whether it’s a problem with the power supply, communication failure, or clogging, this step-by-step guide will provide clear instructions to help you troubleshoot the issues you might face with your Roomba Clean Base not working.

Roomba Clean Base Not Working – In a Nutshell

If your Roomba Clean Base is not working, ensure it is properly set up, in a suitable location, and free from debris. Check your Roomba’s dirt bin and clean sensors for potential blockages. If these steps don’t work, try resetting your Roomba or updating its software. If problems persist, contact iRobot Customer Support.

1. Checking Power and Connection

First, we need to ensure that your Clean Base is receiving power.

Therefore, one end of the Clean Base should be plugged into a working electrical outlet, and the other end should be connected to the base itself.

You can check if the base is receiving enough electrical current by removing the bag from the dock and observing the LED Indicator – it should show a solid red light indicating a missing bag.

If it doesn’t, then your Clean Base may not be receiving enough power.

The Clean Base also needs to communicate with your Roomba to perform its function.

You might need to disable the ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode on the iRobot® HOME App if it’s turned on, as this could interfere with the Roomba’s functioning.

2. Resolving Communication Issues

In some cases, your Roomba may not communicate with the Clean Base, which can prevent it from docking or showing the ‘Empty Bin’ button in the iRobot HOME App.

To resolve this, start by rebooting your robot:

1. Remove the robot from the Clean Base and place it about eight feet away.
2. Press the HOME button on the robot.

After performing these steps, the robot should dock onto the Clean Base, and the ‘Empty Bin’ button should appear in the app.

If the issue persists, it’s time to examine the robot’s bumper:

1. Flip the robot over.
2. Use a can of compressed air to clean out the inside area of the bumper where dust may be built up.
3. Retest the docking procedure.

3. Checking the Lid, Bag, and Charging Contacts

Sometimes, a seemingly complex issue can have a simple solution.

One such issue is when the Clean Base assumes the bag is not installed properly due to an unsealed lid on top of the Clean Base.

In such cases, the Clean Base will not allow the robot to evacuate.

To resolve this, follow these steps:

1. Ensure the lid on top of the Clean Base is properly sealed.
2. Ensure the bag is properly installed.
3. If the bag is not completely full, shake it a few times to allow the debris to settle at the bottom of the bag. If the bag is completely full, discard and replace it.
4. Press down on the lid, making sure it’s firmly closed.

Also, check the charging contacts on the robot and the Clean Base, along with the docking sensor window on the Clean Base.

These should be clean and free of any debris.

Wipe them with a clean, dry microfiber or soft cotton cloth.

Do not spray cleaning solution directly onto sensors or into sensor openings.

4. Resolving Potential Clogs in the Clean Base

If the Clean Base senses a clog, it will pause the evacuation process.

To troubleshoot this issue, follow the steps below:

1. Unplug the Clean Base from the power source.
2. Remove the bag.
3. Shine a flashlight into the lower chute of the Clean Base to look for any visible blockages. If you see any debris, carefully remove it. You can use a straightened coat hanger or a similar tool, but be careful not to puncture the bag or damage any internal components.
4. Once you’re sure the path is clear, replace the bag and plug the Clean Base back into the power source.

Try running the robot and activating the evacuation process again to see if it works correctly.

5. Checking for Mechanical or Software Issues

If you’ve tried everything above and your Clean Base still doesn’t work properly, there might be a mechanical or software problem with your Roomba or the Clean Base.

Try the following:

1. Reboot your Roomba by holding down the ‘CLEAN’ button for about 10 seconds until you hear a tone. After the reboot, place it on the Clean Base and see if the problem persists.
2. Update the Roomba’s software via the iRobot HOME App. Sometimes, software bugs can cause communication or function errors between the Roomba and the Clean Base. Ensuring your Roomba is updated to the latest firmware may resolve these issues.

Final Steps: Warranty and Customer Support

If none of the steps above help to resolve your issue, it might be time to consult with iRobot’s Customer Support or check the warranty status of your Roomba and Clean Base.

You can reach iRobot’s Customer Support by phone, email, or online chat.

They can guide you through more in-depth troubleshooting or arrange for a repair or replacement if necessary.

Conclusion

These troubleshooting steps should cover the majority of issues you may encounter with your Roomba’s Clean Base.

If you’re still experiencing problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to iRobot’s Customer Support for further assistance.

Remember, attempting to repair the Roomba or Clean Base on your own can void the warranty.

If your device is still under warranty, it’s best to leave any potential repairs to the professionals.

You can find the warranty information in your product’s user manual or on the iRobot website.