One way to keep a robot vacuum functioning its best is to clean it regularly. The Roomba E5 is no exception, and I’ll show you the step-by-step process of getting it done.
There are two parts to this guide – basic cleaning and a more thorough process that will require you to remove the base plate.
Don’t worry, I’ll share photos, and it’s easy to follow with the right tools. The steps are similar to cleaning a Roomba 690, but there slight differences.
[toc]Tools you’ll need
- Regular Philips screwdriver
- Mini-screwdriver set for removing the side wheels.
- Clean microfiber towel
Steps on how to clean the Roomba E5 [Basic]
The steps here involve cleaning the dustbin, side brush, and rollers. You’ll have to do this process weekly (or more depending on how frequently the robot is used) to prevent unnecessary wear on vital components like the motors that turn the various brushes.
Step 1: Clean the side brush
Inspect the side brush to see if there’s hair wrapped on the base. You’ll have to remove a bolt to remove the side brush. Flip the brush over to check the base of hair wrapping around it, then clean.
While you’re at it, wipe the side brush base with a clean towel to remove any debris.
Step 2: Empty and clean dustbin
The Roomba E5 dustbin has a different lever placement right behind it. Push to unlock, then empty the contents. If there is debris sticking on the thin mesh filter inside, use a handheld with a brush attachment like the Roborock H6 to clean this area.
Remove the filter and tap it on a solid surface to dislodge any dust sticking on the folds. For a more thorough lean, use a handheld plus a brush attachment to clean further.
Please note the E5 filter isn’t washable because of the paper material used.
Step 3: Clean the rollers
Next, remove the rollers and clean. Unlike the Roomba 675 or 690, the E5’s rollers are held by a single locking mechanism (check photo above).
Lift this latch to remove the two rollers.
Avoid washing these as there are bearings on the axle that could potentially rust if exposed to water. Use a clean microfiber towel to wipe down. If the rollers are soiled, use a damp towel.
Wipe the brush roll assembly with a clean towel or vacuum it with a handheld to remove any debris accumulation.
Step 4: Wipe all the wheels.
The E5 has three wheels – one caster wheel up front and two side wheels. A microfiber towel is great for cleaning these components as it provides good agitation to remove and dirt sticking on the surface while maintaining a soft texture.
Step 5: Clean the drop sensors
There are four drop sensors underneath the Roomba E5. Lightly wipe each one with a clean microfiber towel.
Step 6: Wipe the whole robot down.
Lastly, wipe the robot’s exterior with a clean microfiber towel to remove any fingerprints and build up. Don’t forget to wipe the front bumper and the base plate.
How to thoroughly clean Roomba E5?
There are instances when the E5 needs a thorough clean. Do this once every three to six months to clear any accumulation of dirt within. Robot vacuums are precision instruments that rely on a bevy of sensors and motors to function.
Any friction and dirt will hamper its performance and could potentially cause unnecessary wear.
The steps below will take longer, but your E5 will last longer.
Step 1: Remove the side brush
The first step is to remove the side brush. Loosen the screwdriver to remove and clean any hair wrapped around the base.
Step 2: Take out the base plate
Five bolts are holding the base plate – unfasten all, then remove the base. This will give you access to the hidden components.
If you haven’t done this, expect to see an accumulation of dust, particularly near the wheels.
You’ll also see the motor beside the dust container, so avoid using a wet towel to wipe as it can damage these parts.
Step 3: Remove and clean the side wheels
Unlike the Roomba 675 that has three bolts hold each side wheel, the E5 only has two. Use a mini-Philips screwdriver to loosen, then lift out each wheel.
Wipe each wheel with a clean towel. Be careful not to dislodge the spring underneath. Only use a dry towel as it has electronic pins.
Check the base of each wheel assembly where it sits for any buildup. Clean with a towel or a handheld vacuum.
Reattach each wheel accordingly, then tighten screws.
Please check this article to learn more about cleaning the Roomba side wheels.
Step 4: Clean the rollers
Unlock and remove the rollers, then wipe each one with a clean towel. iRobot provides color-coded guides to help users in reattaching it in the correct order.
Step 5: Wipe down all visible components
Use a clean microfiber towel to wipe all visible components underneath the base plate. A handheld vacuum is a handy tool for this task if you want to speed up the process.
Step 6: Reattach the base plate and side brush.
The last step is reattaching the base plate, then tighten the bolts. Don’t forget to attach the side brush, and that’s it, you’re done with cleaning the Roomba E5.
