If you’re like most people, you probably have a Wi-Fi connected Roomba vacuum cleaner. But if you don’t, there are a few things you can do to make sure your Roomba is connected and working properly. First, make sure your Wi-Fi is enabled on your Roomba. This is done by going to the “Settings” menu and selecting “Wi-Fi.” Then, make sure that the “Connected” checkbox is checked. Finally, make sure that the “Scanner” checkbox is checked. If all of this isn’t enough for you, there are a few other things you can do to help keep your Roomba connected and working properly. First, make sure that your Roomba has an up-to-date firmware. This can be done by going to the “Firmware” menu and selecting “Update.” Then, select “Check for updates.” If all of this isn’t enough for you, there are also a few other things you can do to help keep your Roomba running smoothly. First, make sure that it’s been cleaned regularly with a hose or vacuum cleaner. Second, change out any filters that may be in use on your Roomba. Third, change out any batteries if they’re not lasting as long as they should be. Finally, set up some basic rules for how yourRoomba should work in order to ensure its performance remains high throughout the year. These include making sure that it’s always on when it’s not being used (by keeping the room dark), never leaving it unattended (especially if there’s someone else in the house), and using common sense when cleaning (such as using water instead of soap).
iRobot has a few different models of Roomba vacuums, but the Wi-Fi connected Roombas are definitely some of the most convenient. You can start or schedule cleaning jobs from your phone, ring your Roomba from your phone if you can’t find it, and even start cleaning using Alexa or Google Assistant. If you just got a Wi-Fi capable Roomba, here’s how to set yours up.
RELATED: Should You Buy a Robot Vacuum Cleaner? 5 Things to Consider
To get started, download the iRobot HOME app for iOS or Android. When you first open the app, choose your country and language, then tap Accept Terms.
Next, you’ll need to either create or log into your Roomba account. If you have an existing account, tap “Log in.” If you don’t, tap “Create account.”
On the next screen, tap the type of device you have. If it’s any model of vacuum cleaner robot, choose Roomba. If you have a Braava Jet mopping robot, tap that below. After this, tap Set Up a New Roomba.
At this point, the app will walk you through a few basic set up steps in your home. First, find the docking station that came with your Roomba and plug this into the wall. Place the station flush against a wall in a place where the Roomba can easily get to it and keep the path to it clear.
Next, turn over you Roomba and remove any plastic tabs or wrapping.
Next, set your Roomba on the docking station to charge. It will need to charge for a few hours before its first run. You can continue the setup process on your phone while your Roomba charges.
Back on your phone, the app will connect your Roomba to the Wi-Fi network your phone is currently connected to. Note that if you’re not on your own home Wi-Fi network, you’ll need to switch to it before you can continue. Tap Continue and, on the next screen, enter your Wi-Fi network’s password and tap Continue.
On the Roomba itself, tap and hold the buttons with the target icon and the home icon until the Roomba makes a tone. Your vacuum will take a moment to connect to your Wi-Fi network. Once it’s done, you should see a screen like the one on the right.
On the next screen, you can anthropomorphize your vacuum cleaner by giving it a name and even confirming its “birthday.” Happy birthday, little buddy.
After a short video plays introducing you to your Roomba, you’ll be dropped into the main screen of the app. You can tap the big circular “Clean” button to start a cleaning job now (though you should wait a while to let your vacuum charge), or tap the middle button along the bottom of the screen to schedule up to daily cleanings.
Your Roomba can run mostly unattended, but remember you’ll still have to pick stuff up and keep the floors mostly clear if you want it to clean effectively. The vacuum will go around most clutter (as long as it can’t fit underneath the Roomba itself), but that will be another spot your robot can’t clean. While your Roomba is charging, it’s good to clean up the rooms that your bot will be vacuuming.
