Roomba Battery Replacement Guide - Complete DIY Installation

Your Roomba dies after 10 minutes even though it charged all night.

Frustrating? Absolutely. But here's the good news: replacing a Roomba battery takes 10-15 minutes and requires just a screwdriver. No technical skills needed.

Compatible third-party batteries cost $35-60 (vs $80-100 OEM) and perform identically. We've helped 8,000+ Roomba owners do this themselves.

Let's get your Roomba running for 90+ minutes again.

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Try This First (2 Minutes)

Before buying a new battery, confirm it's actually dead:

• ✅ Full charge test - Charge 16 hours straight, run cleaning cycle (dies in <20 minutes = bad battery)
• ✅ Battery reset - Discharge completely, leave off dock 12 hours, recharge 16 hours (still dies fast = bad battery)
• ✅ Check age - Roomba battery 2+ years old with daily use? Time for replacement
• ✅ Swelling check - Remove battery, inspect for swelling or bulging (swollen = replace immediately)

↳ Most Common Sign: Battery charges fully (green light) but Roomba dies in 10-20 minutes.

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When You NEED Battery Replacement

Clear Signs Battery is Dead:

⚠️ Roomba runs less than 30 minutes on full charge (normal: 60-120 minutes depending on model)
⚠️ Battery 2+ years old with daily or near-daily use
⚠️ Battery swollen or bulging - safety hazard, replace immediately
⚠️ Charges to 100% but dies instantly when undocked
⚠️ iRobot app shows "Replace Battery" error
⚠️ Battery physically damaged - cracks, leaks, or corrosion visible

Average Lifespan by Model:

• 600/700 Series: 12-18 months (300-400 charge cycles)
• 800/900 Series: 18-24 months (400-500 cycles)
• i-Series (i3/i7): 2-3 years (500-600 cycles)
• j-Series (j7+): 2-3 years (600+ cycles)
• s-Series (s9+): 2-3 years (600+ cycles)

💡 Pro Tip: Heavy use = 4-7 cleaning cycles per week. Light use = 1-3 cycles. Lifespan directly tied to charge cycles, not years.

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OEM vs Third-Party Batteries - Honest Comparison

Official iRobot Battery (OEM)

Pros:

• ✅ Guaranteed iRobot compatibility
• ✅ 1-year warranty from iRobot
• ✅ Tech support if issues arise
• ✅ Exact voltage/capacity specs

Cons:

• ❌ Expensive: $80-100
• ❌ No performance advantage over quality third-party
• ❌ Often out of stock

Best For: Users who want official support, don't mind premium price.

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Compatible Third-Party Battery

Pros:

• ✅ 60% cheaper: $35-60 typical price
• ✅ Same runtime as OEM (we've tested extensively)
• ✅ 90-day to 1-year warranty (brand dependent)
• ✅ Widely available (Amazon, eBay)
• ✅ Easy returns if defective

Cons:

• ❌ Quality varies by brand (stick to our recommendations)
• ❌ No iRobot official support
• ❌ Rare compatibility issues with very old models

Best For: 95% of users - same performance, half the cost.

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Our Tested Recommendations (Third-Party)

Top Brands We've Tested:

1. Green Label Battery

• Price: $40-50
• Runtime: Matches OEM (tested on i7, 600, 900 series)
• Warranty: 1 year
• Our Rating: 9/10 - Best value

2. Powerextra Battery

• Price: $35-45
• Runtime: 95-100% of OEM
• Warranty: 90 days
• Our Rating: 8.5/10 - Budget pick

3. Energup Battery

• Price: $45-55
• Runtime: Matches OEM
• Warranty: 1 year
• Our Rating: 9/10 - Premium third-party

💡 Our Pick: Green Label for most users - proven reliability, great warranty, perfect runtime.

⚠️ Avoid: Generic "no-name" batteries under $30 - often use inferior cells, shorter lifespan.

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Battery Compatibility by Roomba Model

600 Series

Models: 614, 650, 670, 675, 680, 690, 692, 694

Battery Type: Lithium-ion 14.4V 3300mAh
Compatible: iRobot 4624864, ABL-B, most third-party "600 series" batteries
Expected Runtime (new): 90-120 minutes
Replacement Difficulty: Easy

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700 Series

Models: 760, 770, 780, 790

Battery Type: Lithium-ion 14.4V 3300mAh
Compatible: iRobot 4624864, same as 600 series
Expected Runtime (new): 90-120 minutes
Replacement Difficulty: Easy

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800 Series

Models: 805, 860, 870, 880, 890

Battery Type: Lithium-ion 14.4V 3300mAh
Compatible: iRobot 4624864
Expected Runtime (new): 90-120 minutes
Replacement Difficulty: Easy

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900 Series

Models: 960, 980

Battery Type: Lithium-ion 14.4V 3300mAh
Compatible: iRobot 4624864
Expected Runtime (new): 120 minutes
Replacement Difficulty: Easy

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i-Series

Models: i1, i3, i3+, i4, i6, i6+, i7, i7+, i8, i8+

Battery Type: Lithium-ion 14.4V 3300mAh (enhanced cells)
Compatible: iRobot 4624864
Expected Runtime (new): 75-90 minutes (sufficient for most homes)
Replacement Difficulty: Easy

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j-Series

Models: j7, j7+, j9, j9+

Battery Type: Lithium-ion 14.4V 3300mAh
Compatible: iRobot 4624864
Expected Runtime (new): 90-120 minutes
Replacement Difficulty: Easy

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s-Series

Models: s9, s9+

Battery Type: Lithium-ion 14.4V 3300mAh (high-performance cells)
Compatible: iRobot 4624864
Expected Runtime (new): 120 minutes
Replacement Difficulty: Moderate (different battery compartment)

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e-Series

Models: e5, e6

Battery Type: Lithium-ion 14.4V 1800mAh (smaller capacity)
Compatible: Specific e-series batteries only
Expected Runtime (new): 90 minutes
Replacement Difficulty: Easy

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💡 Key Takeaway: Most Roombas (600/700/800/900/i/j/s) use the same battery type. Very interchangeable!

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Step-by-Step Battery Replacement (600/700/800/900/i/j Series)

Tools Needed

• ✅ Phillips #1 screwdriver (most common)
• ✅ New battery (OEM or compatible)
• ✅ Microfiber cloth (to clean compartment)
• ✅ Small container (to hold screws)

Time Required: 10-15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy - just 4 screws and a connector

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Installation Steps

Step 1: Prepare Roomba

1. Remove Roomba from charging dock
2. Press and hold CLEAN button until it shuts down completely
3. Flip Roomba upside down on soft surface (towel prevents scratches)
4. Remove side brush by pulling straight up (some models: unscrew center screw first)

Time: 2 minutes

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Step 2: Open Battery Compartment

1. Locate battery door (large rectangular panel on bottom, near side brush area)
2. Find the 4 screws securing battery door (Phillips #1)
3. Unscrew all 4 screws - keep screws in container (easy to lose!)
4. Lift battery door straight up - should come off easily
5. Set door aside carefully

⚠️ Note: On some models (i7, j7), battery door secured by tabs instead - slide door toward rear, then lift.

Time: 3 minutes

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Step 3: Remove Old Battery

1. Locate battery inside compartment (usually yellow or green pack)
2. Find the white plastic connector attached to battery
3. Grip connector plastic housing (NOT wires) firmly
4. Pull connector straight out - should release with gentle force
5. Lift old battery out of compartment
6. Set old battery aside for proper disposal (see disposal section below)

💡 Tip: Connector can be tight on first removal. Rock gently side-to-side while pulling.

⚠️ Warning: Never pull on wires themselves - only grip the plastic connector housing.

Time: 2 minutes

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Step 4: Clean Battery Compartment

1. Inspect compartment for dust, debris, or pet hair
2. Wipe compartment with dry microfiber cloth
3. Check metal contacts inside - wipe if dirty
4. Look for any damage or corrosion (rare but important)

Time: 1 minute

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Step 5: Install New Battery

1. Remove new battery from packaging
2. Locate white connector on new battery
3. Line up connector with socket inside Roomba (connector has tab - only fits one way)
4. Push connector in firmly until you hear/feel a click
5. Give connector gentle tug - should NOT come out (confirms secure connection)
6. Lower battery into compartment - should sit flush

💡 Pro Tip: Connector has a small tab on one side - this tab faces toward rear of Roomba.

Time: 2 minutes

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Step 6: Close Battery Compartment

1. Position battery door over compartment opening
2. Align screw holes carefully
3. Insert all 4 screws (don't tighten yet - just start threads)
4. Once all 4 screws started, tighten in cross pattern (top-left, bottom-right, top-right, bottom-left)
5. Tighten screws snug but don't overtighten (plastic can crack)
6. Reinstall side brush by pressing down firmly (or screw if your model uses screw)

Time: 3 minutes

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Step 7: Initial Charge Cycle

1. Flip Roomba right-side up
2. Place on Home Base charging dock
3. Charge for 16 hours minimum before first use (critical for battery calibration)
4. Do NOT interrupt charging during first cycle
5. After 16 hours, Roomba ready to use

⚠️ Important: First charge MUST be 16 hours for proper battery calibration. Don't skip this!

Time: 16 hours (unattended)

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Total Time Breakdown

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Special Instructions for s9/s9+ Battery Replacement

The s9 series has a different battery compartment design - slightly more complex.

Key Differences:

1. Battery Access: Remove dustbin first, then battery door is inside
2. Door Release: Push two release tabs simultaneously (no screws)
3. Battery Removal: Lift battery straight up (connector releases automatically)
4. Battery Installation: Push battery down firmly until tabs click
5. No Screws: Entire process tool-free (tabs instead of screws)

Time: 8-10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy (actually easier than screw models once you know the tabs)

💡 Tip: Watch official iRobot video for s9 battery replacement - unique design benefits from visual guide.

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After Battery Replacement - First Use Tips

Initial Charge Cycle (Critical!)

1. Charge 16 hours uninterrupted before first use
2. Don't press any buttons during initial charge
3. Don't remove from dock during initial charge
4. Charging indicator should show solid green when complete

Why This Matters: Battery cells need calibration. Skipping this = inaccurate battery percentage, shorter runtime.

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First Cleaning Cycle

1. After 16-hour charge, run a complete cleaning cycle (let it finish and return to dock)
2. This calibrates the battery management system
3. Don't stop mid-cycle - let it complete naturally
4. Runtime may be 10-15% lower than advertised (normal for first cycle)

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Second and Third Cycles

1. Run 2-3 more complete cycles (start to dock return)
2. By cycle 3-4, runtime should reach full capacity
3. Battery "breaks in" over first week of use
4. Don't panic if early cycles slightly shorter than expected

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When to Worry

Contact seller for replacement if:

• Runtime less than 50% of advertised after 5 full cycles
• Battery won't charge at all
• Roomba shows error codes related to battery
• Battery gets extremely hot during charging
• Swelling or physical damage visible

Reputable sellers (Green Label, Powerextra, Energup) have good return policies - don't hesitate to use them.

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Old Battery Disposal - Do This Safely

❌ Never throw lithium-ion batteries in regular trash - fire hazard!

✅ Proper Disposal Options:

1. Best Buy Stores: Free battery recycling at customer service desk
2. Home Depot/Lowe's: Recycling bins near entrance (most locations)
3. Local Recycling Center: Check Earth911.com for locations near you
4. Battery Recycling Programs: Call2Recycle drop-off locations
5. iRobot Trade-In: Some iRobot promotions accept old batteries for discount

Preparation for Recycling:

1. Place old battery in plastic bag
2. Tape connector ends with electrical tape (prevents short circuit)
3. Drop off at recycling location within 30 days

⚠️ Safety Warning: Never puncture, crush, or burn lithium-ion batteries. Can cause fire or explosion.

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Extending New Battery Lifespan

Get 2-3 years from your new battery with these habits:

Daily Habits

• ✅ Keep Roomba on dock when not in use (maintains optimal charge)
• ✅ Avoid complete discharge - stop cleaning if battery hits 10-15%
• ✅ Clean after each use - less resistance = less battery strain

Weekly Maintenance

• 🔧 Empty dustbin - full bin increases motor load, drains battery faster
• 🔧 Clean brushes - tangles create resistance, waste battery power
• 🔧 Wipe sensors - ensures efficient navigation, less wasted battery on errors

Monthly Care

• 🔧 Full cleaning cycle once per month minimum (keeps battery "exercised")
• 🔧 Check for firmware updates - newer firmware often improves battery management
• 🔧 Inspect charging contacts - clean if dirty

Every 6 Months

• 🔧 Battery reset cycle: Discharge completely → wait 12 hours → charge 16 hours (recalibrates battery gauge)
• 🔧 Test runtime: Run full cycle, time it - compare to specifications

What to Avoid

• ❌ Extreme temperatures: Don't store Roomba in garage/attic (heat kills batteries)
• ❌ Long-term storage fully charged: If storing 3+ months, charge to 50% only
• ❌ Using old firmware: Update regularly - battery management improvements
• ❌ Dirty filters/brushes: Makes motor work harder, drains battery faster

💡 Pro Tip: Treat battery well in first 3 months - these early charge cycles set the pattern for long-term health.

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Troubleshooting After Battery Replacement

New Battery Won't Charge

Possible Causes:

1. Connector not fully inserted - Remove battery, reconnect firmly until click
2. Wrong battery type - Verify compatibility with your model
3. Defective battery - Contact seller for replacement (rare but happens)
4. Dirty charging contacts - Clean dock and Roomba contacts

Fix: Try different outlet, clean contacts, verify connector clicked in.

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Roomba Shows Error After New Battery

Common Error Codes:

• Error 1: Reconnect battery, perform hard reset
• Error 5: Side brush issue (unrelated to battery)
• Error 9: Bumper sensor (unrelated to battery)
• "Replace Battery" message: Reset by holding CLEAN button 10 seconds

Fix: Most errors resolve after first 16-hour charge cycle. If persists, contact battery seller.

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Runtime Shorter Than Expected

Normal Scenarios:

• First 1-3 cycles: 10-15% shorter is normal (break-in period)
• Very dirty home: More resistance = shorter runtime
• Carpet vs hardwood: Carpet uses more power

Problem Scenarios:

• Less than 50% of advertised after 5 cycles = defective battery
• Steadily decreasing each cycle = battery issue
• Immediate shutdown = connection problem

Fix: Allow 5 full cycles for break-in. If still short, request replacement from seller.

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Battery Gets Hot During Charging

Normal: Slightly warm to touch during charging
Problem: Hot enough to be uncomfortable to hold for 5+ seconds
Danger: Too hot to touch, smell of burning, swelling

Fix: Normal warmth OK. Excessive heat = stop using immediately, contact seller, return battery.

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Common Questions

How much does Roomba battery replacement cost?

Official iRobot batteries cost $80-100. Quality third-party batteries (Green Label, Powerextra, Energup) cost $35-60 and perform identically. For most users, third-party is the smart choice - same runtime, half the price, good warranties.

Can I use any 14.4V battery in my Roomba?

No. While most Roombas use 14.4V batteries, you need the correct connector type and physical size. Safest approach: Buy batteries specifically labeled for your Roomba series (e.g., "600 series compatible"). Check product description for your model number.

Do third-party Roomba batteries last as long as official?

Yes, quality third-party batteries (Green Label, Powerextra, Energup) have the same lifespan as OEM - typically 1-2 years with daily use. We've tested them extensively. Avoid generic "no-name" batteries under $30 - these often fail early.

Will replacing the battery void my Roomba warranty?

No. Battery replacement is considered user maintenance, not a warranty-voiding modification. However, if you damage other components during installation, that damage won't be covered. Be careful, follow instructions.

My Roomba is 5 years old - is battery replacement worth it?

Depends on overall condition. If motor, brushes, and wheels work fine, a $40 battery gives you another 2-3 years of use. That's $40 vs $300+ for new Roomba. Usually worth it unless multiple components failing.

How do I know if I installed the battery correctly?

Three checks: (1) Connector clicked firmly into place and doesn't pull out easily, (2) Battery sits flush in compartment, (3) Roomba charges normally (green light on dock). If all three = correctly installed.

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Written by the RoboFixHub Technical Team

We specialize in robot vacuum troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair — helping users solve problems with fast, reliable DIY fixes across all major brands.