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Mai Pham
December 15, 2023

Having weak suction in your robot vacuum can be incredibly frustrating. Not only does it mean that cleaning takes longer, but weak suction can also lead to missed dirt and debris, leaving your floors less clean than they could be. That’s why it’s so important to troubleshoot weak suction in robot vacuums as soon as possible. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of weak suction in robot vacuums and how you can troubleshoot them to get your machine working optimally once again.

Causes of Weak Suction

Weak suction in robot vacuums can be caused by a variety of factors. For example, if the filter is clogged or dirty, it can restrict the flow of air and reduce suction power. Additionally, if the brush roll is tangled with hair and other debris, it can make it difficult for the vacuum to pull dirt particles into the dustbin. Additionally, weak suction can be caused by a weak battery, damaged parts, or even blocked air passages.

Let’s take a closer look at each one.

Clogged filters and brushes

Clogged filters and brushes are a major cause of weak suction in robot vacuums. Clogged or dirty filters can restrict the flow of air, reducing the amount of suction that can be produced.

Additionally, clogged brushes can make it difficult for the vacuum to pull dirt particles into the dustbin. This is due to the increased friction between the brush roll and the dirt particles.

To troubleshoot weak suction due to clogged filters or brushes, simply clean them regularly as part of your regular maintenance routine.

Weak battery

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Another potential cause of weak suction is a weak battery. Robot vacuum cleaners rely on batteries to power their suction motors, so weak batteries can result in weak suction. Ensure that your robot vacuum has a fully charged battery, or replace it if necessary.

Full dustbin or dirt compartment

A full dustbin or dirt compartment can significantly affect the suction power of a robot vacuum. When a robot vacuum’s dustbin or dirt compartment is full, the air is unable to flow through freely, resulting in weak suction. Furthermore, when the bin or compartment reaches its capacity, the vacuum can strain to pick up larger particles which can cause weak suction.

To troubleshoot weak suction due to a full dustbin, simply empty it regularly and monitor the size of particles being picked up to ensure that they are not too large for the vacuum.

Damaged or worn-out parts

Damaged or worn-out parts can also be the cause of weak suction in robot vacuums. Worn-out or damaged parts can include everything from worn or broken motor brushes to frayed wiring and clogged dust filters.

When these parts are not functioning properly they will reduce the amount of suction power a vacuum can produce, leading to weak suction.

To troubleshoot weak suction due to damaged or worn-out parts, check all the components of your robot vacuum and replace any damaged or worn-out parts as needed.

Obstacles

Obstructions in the vacuum’s path, such as furniture and carpets, can have a significant impact on weak suction. When these obstacles are in the way, it can reduce the amount of air that can flow freely, resulting in reduced suction power. Additionally, when a robot vacuum is forced to navigate around an obstacle or over a carpet, it can strain to pick up larger particles which can lead to weak suction.

To troubleshoot weak suction due to obstruction, make sure that all pathways are clear and free of debris and furniture.

Steps to Troubleshoot Weak Suction

Weak suction in robot vacuums can be incredibly frustrating, but thankfully there are ways to troubleshoot and fix the issue. Here are some steps you can take to get your robot vacuum back to its optimal performance:

1. Check the filters and brush rolls

Clogged or dirty filters can significantly reduce suction power, so make sure they are cleaned regularly as part of your regular maintenance routine. Additionally, check the brush roll for any debris that may be tangled in the bristles, as this can make it difficult for the vacuum to pick up dirt particles.

2. Check and replace weak batteries

Weak batteries can drastically reduce suction power, so ensure that your robot vacuum is running on a fully charged battery or replace it if necessary.

3. Empty the dustbin/dirt compartment

A full dustbin or dirt compartment can reduce suction power, so make sure to empty it regularly and monitor the size of particles being picked up by the vacuum.

4. Check for any damaged or worn-out parts

Damaged or worn-out parts such as motor brushes, filters, and wiring can significantly reduce suction power, so check all of the components of your robot vacuum and replace any damaged or worn-out parts as needed.

5. Remove obstructions in the vacuum’s path

When there are obstacles in the way such as furniture and carpets, weak suction is often caused. Make sure to keep all pathways clear and free of furniture, carpets, or any other obstructions.

By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot weak suction in your robot vacuum and get it back to its optimal performance. If you are still experiencing weak suction after taking these steps, then it may be time to schedule a repair or upgrade your robot vacuum altogether.

Conclusion

No one likes weak suction, but with a little maintenance and troubleshooting, you can get your robot vacuum back to its top performance. So don’t give up on it just yet! Hopefully, these tips will help you in getting your robot vacuum back up and going again!

About the Author

I am a working mother who more than often prefer to come home and rest rather than doing house chores. I am passionate about simplifying house chores to live and enjoy life more.

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