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How to Install and Replace Robot Vacuum Bumpers

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Written by:

Lawrence Bonk
Updated February 10, 2023

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If you are new to the world of automated cleaning gadgets, you may wonder how to install and replace robot vacuum bumpers. Some of the best vacuums, after all, are premium robot vacuums, and these appliances make full use of accessories, including bumpers. As the name suggests, robot vacuum bumpers are detachable pieces that surround the exterior of the vacuum. They are available in multiple sizes and colors, have multiple uses, and are crucial when learning how to fix a robot vacuum. So why use bumpers, and how to install them? Keep reading to find out.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Robot vacuum bumpers help these appliances avoid obstacles and foreign objects as they clean your home, as they are equipped with cliff sensors, virtual wall sensors, and more
  • Replacing the bumpers is occasionally necessary in the case of repair or maintenance issues.
  • The replacement process is rather simple, requiring just a head screwdriver, though this largely depends on the make and model of your vacuum.

What Are Robot Vacuum Bumpers?

As the name suggests, robot vacuum bumpers are detachable pieces that surround the exterior of the vacuum. They are available in multiple sizes and colors, have multiple uses, and are crucial when learning how to fix a robot vacuum.

Why Use Robot Vacuum Bumpers?

If learning how to keep robotic vacuums from getting stuck under furniture, you will run into external bumpers as a possible solution. These bumpers work alongside any integrated object detection software to avoid various items, such as large pieces of debris or high-pile carpeting. When one of these bumpers rubs up against something, it tells the robot that it is time to move in another direction.

Insider Tip

While you are replacing the bumpers, take this time to clean each component thoroughly with a dry cloth.

How to Replace and Install Robot Vacuum Bumpers

This process will differ slightly depending on the make and model of your vacuum, but these steps should approximate the method for the vast majority of robots out there.

STEP 1 Remove the Cover

  1. The bumpers are likely embedded underneath covers, as they feature sensitive components like sensors.
  2. Look for screws surrounding a number of small covers.
  3. Unscrew these areas and remove the cover.

STEP 2 Remove the Bumpers

  1. You should now have access to the bumpers along with any integrated sensors.
  2. Unscrew and remove these bumpers using the appropriate screwdriver.
  3. You may have red and black wires to unplug, so do that.

STEP 3 Install New Bumpers

  1. Break out the new bumpers and line them up in front of the appropriate screw holes.
  2. Screw them in and reattach any red or black wires, making sure to do so in the correct order and location.

STEP 4 Reattach the Covers

  1. Now that the sensors and bumpers are back in place, it is time to reattach the cover.
  2. Place the cover over the bumpers and line up the screw holes.
  3. Screw them back in and enjoy your newly bumperized robot vacuum.

STAT: In 1990, three roboticists, Colin Angle, Helen Greiner, and Rodney Brooks, founded iRobot. It was originally dedicated to making robots for military and domestic use. It launched the Roomba in 2002. (source)

Robotic Vacuum Bumpers FAQs

How long do they take to charge?

Robot vacuums take around four to six hours to charge, though a first charge may take eight hours. Once charged, check the power indicator, power supply, power inlet, and power button to ensure everything is right in the world.

Are bumpers necessary?

If you want to make the most out of the various cleaning modes and expand your cleaning routes and cleaning efficiency, throw on a bumper or two.

Will bumpers hurt my pets?

Robot vacuums will likely not hurt any pets, as they are filled with virtual wall sensors and the like. As a matter of fact, many pets enjoy chasing them around, leading you to head for that reset button.
Lawrence Bonk Profile image
Lawrence Bonk
Lawrence Bonk is a copywriter with a decade of experience in the tech space, with columns appearing in Engadget, Huffington Post and CBS, among others. He has a cat named Cinnamon.