What is error 15 on Roomba? How to fix the error?
by Rajalaxmi
Updated Apr 18, 2023
Roomba
Roomba is a series of autonomous robotic vacuum cleaners manufactured by the American technology company iRobot. First introduced in September 2002, Roomba is a groundbreaking invention that has transformed the way people clean their homes.
One of the key features of the Roomba is its set of sensors, which enable it to navigate the floor area of a home. These sensors can detect the presence of obstacles, such as furniture or walls, and can also detect particularly dirty spots on the floor that require more attention. Furthermore, Roomba's sensors can detect steep drops, allowing the device to avoid falling down stairs.
Over the years, iRobot has introduced several models of Roomba, each with its own unique features. As of 2022, iRobot markets models of their 600, i, j, Combo, and s9 series, while continuing to provide support and sell accessories for their previous series.
Some of the newer high-end models of Roomba have additional features, such as tangle-free brushes, separate sweep canisters, and more powerful vacuums. Some models also offer obstacle avoidance, which allows the Roomba to move around objects in its path without getting stuck. Performance maps displayed via smartphone apps also help users track the areas that the Roomba has already cleaned and those that it still needs to clean.
Perhaps the most significant advancement in Roomba's technology is the integration of a camera in newer high-end models. The camera works in conjunction with onboard mapping and navigation software to systematically cover all floor area, move from room to room, avoid obstacles such as pet waste and charging cables, and find recharging bases and beacons. This allows for a more efficient and thorough cleaning, as well as a more personalized user experience.
What is error 15 on Roomba?
In today's world, robots have become an indispensable part of our lives, making our daily tasks easier and more efficient. However, like any other electronic device, robots are prone to errors and malfunctions that require attention and troubleshooting. One such error is the Charging Error Fifteen (15) which is commonly encountered by users of iRobot's Roomba series of robotic vacuum cleaners.
If you come across this error message, it indicates that there has been a cell failure on the battery during charging. This means that the battery is no longer functioning optimally and will need to be replaced. It is important to address this issue as soon as possible to ensure that your Roomba continues to operate at peak performance.
Cause of Roomba error 15
The most common reason for Roomba Error 15 is a dirty or faulty cliff sensor. Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the sensors, causing them to malfunction. Additionally, if the sensors are damaged or defective, they may need to be replaced to fix the problem.
Another possible cause of Roomba Error 15 is a problem with the device's battery. If the Roomba's battery is low or damaged, it may not be able to power the device properly, leading to errors such as Error 15. In this case, replacing the battery or charging it fully may solve the problem.
In some cases, Roomba Error 15 may also be caused by a software issue. If the Roomba's firmware is outdated or corrupted, it may not be able to function properly, resulting in errors. Updating the firmware or resetting the device may help to resolve the issue.
How to fix Roomba error 15?
Roomba is a widely popular and highly advanced robotic vacuum cleaner. It is an excellent device that can help you keep your home clean without any hassle. However, sometimes you might face an error message on your Roomba, such as error 15. This error typically occurs due to connectivity issues or problems with the device's map.Here are some simple steps that you can take to fix Roomba error 15:
Step 1: Start the cleaning process again
In most cases, Roomba error 15 is a minor issue that can be resolved by restarting the cleaning process. To do this, all you need to do is push the Clean button on the robot, wait for it to reposition itself, and then start the cleaning process again.
Step 2: Inspect your Wi-Fi
Roomba connects to the phone app and base station through Wi-Fi in your home. If your Wi-Fi is down or not working, the robot may experience issues. Check to see whether your Wi-Fi network is functioning, if you have an internet connection, and if your Roomba is in range of your router.
Step 3: Reconnect the Roomba to your Wi-Fi network
To reconnect your Roomba to your Wi-Fi network, hold down the Home, Clean, and Spot Clean buttons at the same time. Wait for the light surrounding the clean button to begin rotating before releasing the buttons. The Roomba will restart and complete the reset on its own.
Step 4: Reboot Your Roomba
Different Roomba models have different rebooting processes:
- For Roomba 500 and 600 Series: Press and hold the “SPOT,” “CLEAN,” and “DOCK” buttons for 10 seconds.
- For Roomba 700, 800, and 900 Series: Press and hold the “CLEAN” button on your robot for 10 seconds.
- When you let go of the button, your Roomba will begin to play the reboot tone.
- For Roomba I and s Series: Press and hold the “CLEAN” button on your robot for 20 seconds.
- When the button is released, the white light ring will circle clockwise.
Step 5: Restore an earlier version of your “Smart Map.”
If error 15 persists, then restoring an earlier version of your “Smart Map” may fix the issue. To do this,
- Open the iRobot Home app on your smartphone,
- Navigate to the “History” section,
- Examine the “Clean Maps” reports,
- Select your favorite previous map,
- Select the ‘overflow menu’ in the top-right corner,
- Finally, select “Update Smart Maps.”
Step 6: Remove the existing map and remap your home
If none of the above steps work, then you might have to remove the existing map and remap your home. To do this,
- Open the iRobot Home app on your smartphone,
- look at your maps, select a map,
- choose the three horizontal dot icons
- finally, choose “Delete map.”
Step 7: Reset the Roomba
If all else fails, resetting your Roomba to its factory settings might solve the error 15 issues. To do this,
- Confirm that the Roomba has been set up using the iRobot Home app,
- Go to Settings, select Factory Reset,
- Confirm the request if prompted.
- The Roomba will now start the factory reset process.
- Allow enough time for the procedure to complete.
- After the process is finished, you must repeat the basic setup,
- Connect the Roomba to Wi-Fi if desired,
- Allow it to learn the layout of your home.
What is error 15 on Roomba - FAQs
Roomba uses a set of sensors and algorithms to navigate and clean the floor area of a home. It moves in a random pattern and changes direction when it encounters an obstacle, such as furniture or walls. The sensors also detect particularly dirty spots on the floor that require more attention.
Roomba is designed to clean various types of flooring, including carpet, hardwood, tile, and laminate. However, it may struggle with certain types of carpeting, such as high-pile or shag carpet.
Yes, Roomba's sensors can detect steep drops, such as stairs, and will avoid falling down them.
The battery life of a Roomba varies depending on the model and usage. However, most Roomba models have a battery life of around 90 minutes.
Yes, Roomba can clean multiple rooms in a home. The device is designed to move from room to room and can navigate through doorways.