If you need to reset Robock intelligent vacuum devices, you have two choices. You can perform a soft reset, which resets the vacuum without erasing user data and settings.
A soft reset is worth trying if you've eliminated everything that could be keeping your vacuum from connecting to WiFi.
The last-resort option is a hard reset. A hard reset stores the Roborock to its factory default settings. This reset erases all user data and returns the vacuum to its original state.
To use the vacuum after a hard reset, you'll have to set it up like when it was new out of the box. Unfortunately, sometimes that's the only way to fix a robot vacuum.
We'll show you how to perform a soft or hard reset on your Roborock and hopefully get it working again.
Before You Reset Your Roborock
Many problems with Roborocks and other robot vacuums happen because the WiFi connection dropped or the robot can't communicate with its app. Check several things before you reset your vacuum, like:
- Is your internet connection working on other devices, or could it be temporarily down?
- Is the battery charged?
- Is the dock too far away from the router?
- Have you used the correct WiFi password?
- Have you enabled permissions and entered your correct location in all the apps on your device that can control the vacuum?
- On iOS 14 and above, have you enabled the local network?
If spotty or non-existent WiFi is the problem and none of the above apply, double-check that your network's frequency is 2.4GHz.
Roborock vacuums only work with 2.4GHz networks. Some people have a WiFi connection that uses one name for both 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz networks. The shared name can make your Roborock think everything is 5Ghz.
Rename one of them so the vacuum can connect with the correct one. While you're checking your WiFi, make sure it uses WPA (or WPA2) encryption. No other encryption works with Roborock vacuums.
If none of these tips help, try resetting the WiFi. This step will often take care of problems and help you avoid doing a device reset.
How to Reset Roborock WiFi
Consult your user manual if you have it. If not, you can find it on the Roborock website. To reset the WiFi on most models, open the top. Press and hold the "Dock" and "Spot" buttons together. The WiFi indicator light will flash to let you know you can attempt to reconnect.
How to Reset a Roborock Error Code
If WiFi isn't the issue, look for an error code before resetting the vacuum. A displayed error code can tell you how to fix the vacuum and possibly avoid a reset.
Check for the error number and solution in the list below.
- 1: The laser unit. If it's not spinning, gently turn it. Restart the vacuum.
- 2: The collision sensor. Use a dry cotton swab to wipe it clean.
- 3: Wheel errors. Put the vacuum in a different place and restart it.
- 5: Brush roller. Turn the vacuum off, clean the roller, and restart.
- 6: Side brushes. With the vacuum off, clean them and ensure they move freely.
- 7: Jammed wheel. Clean out any debris.
- 9: The filter or dust container is seated incorrectly.
- 12: Battery. Charge the vacuum to see if it works.
- 13: Charging terminals. Clean the vacuum and docking station terminals with a soft cloth or dry cotton swab.
If the display still shows a code, try a soft reset.
Performing a Soft Reset
If resetting the WiFi doesn't help, it's time to reset your Roborock. Try a soft reset first.
Lift the top and use a pin or toothpick to depress the "Reset" button and release it. This process resets the robot vacuum without erasing user data. If it doesn't work, you'll have to perform a hard reset.
Performing a Hard Reset
Remember, this reset erases all user data. Be sure you've eliminated all other causes first.
To factory reset the S6 and S5 series vacuums:
Open the lid.
Press and hold the "Home" button (the "Recharge" button on S5)
Use a toothpick or pin to depress the "Reset" button until the lights go out.
Keep holding the "Home" or "Recharge" button down for more than five seconds until the "Power" button flashes.
The vacuum will tell you it's resetting and will turn off in about five minutes, ready to set up again.
To reset other models like the E and C series vacuums:
Press and hold the "Power," "Spot Cleaning," and "Recharge" buttons together.
When the lights go out, keep holding the buttons until the vacuum tells you it's restoring to the factory default.
After a few minutes, the vacuum will restart.
If none of these steps fix the issue, contact Roborock technical support. Your unit might be malfunctioning and need repair or replacement.
Wrap Up
Now you know how to reset Roborock robot vacuums and how to avoid it if you can. We hope you found the answers you needed, and your intelligent vacuum continues to work well for years to come.