If you own a Shark robot vacuum, you know how convenient it can be for your daily cleaning tasks. However, if you find that your Shark robot vacuum is not charging, it can be frustrating and disrupt your cleaning routine.
In this article, we will cover the common reasons why Shark robot vacuums may not be charging, and provide you with some simple steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the issue. Read on to learn how to get your Shark robot vacuum up and running again.

Why is my Shark vacuum not charging?
Charging issues can be frustrating, but they are usually easy to fix. If your Shark vacuum won’t charge, there are a few things to check for. Firstly, make sure that your charging dock is positioned correctly. Place the dock in a clear, open area without any objects blocking it.
If the docking station is in the right position but your Shark vacuum still isn’t charging, it could be due to issues with cleaning contacts. Dirt or debris can build up on the charging contacts, preventing a solid connection and causing charging issues. Use a dry microfiber cloth to clean the contacts and try charging the vacuum again.
Another possible explanation is a worn-out battery. Over time, the batteries in your Shark vacuum may simply stop holding a charge. In this case, you may need to replace the battery or take the vacuum to a repair shop.
If none of these solutions work, it may be time to try some troubleshooting. Firstly, try checking the power outlet. Ensure that the outlet you’re using is working correctly by plugging another electronic device into it.
Fixing Shark Robot Vacuum Not Charging
When your Shark robot vacuum is not charging, it can be frustrating especially when you have cleaning tasks waiting for you. However, troubleshooting the problem may help resolve the issue quickly. Here are some ways to fix it.
Check the Power Switch
Unlike most robot vacuum cleaners, Shark robots have a power switch on the side. Your shark robot vacuum won’t charge if the switch is off. Therefore, ensure the switch is in the on position and retry charging the vacuum. If your robot charges, then you’re good to go. Otherwise, let’s try some other fixes.
Check the Power Source
It may not be your Shark robot vacuum that is the problem. Check the outlet connecting to your charging base. Test it with another electronic device like your laptop, phone, or an outlet tester. If the outlet isn’t working for other devices, the problem is with the outlet. Try a different working outlet for your vacuum charging station. If the charging station is still not working, it could be faulty. The shark charging base shows an indicator light when connected to a working outlet. The charging station is probably faulty if the indicator light is off or blinking but connected to a functioning outlet.
Place the Charging Dock on a Hard Floor
Where you place your charging dock can affect its performance. When the docking station is placed on a carpet, your shark robot vacuum might experience problems docking. Hence, it won’t be able to charge. The Shark Robot official website recommends placing the charging dock on a hard floor. Pick a suitable place on a hard floor for your Shark robot and ensure it leans against a wall. The place should also be leveled without obstructions for the robot to dock easily.
Clean Your Shark Robot Vacuum and Charging Dock
Dirt or debris can build up on the charging contacts, preventing a solid connection and causing charging issues. Use a damp cloth to clean the contacts, microfiber cloth to clean the vacuum and charging dock, and try charging the vacuum again.
Ensure Proper Alignment
Ensure that the shark robot is aligned correctly on the dock. If the robot vacuum is not properly aligned on the dock, it won’t charge. Proximity sensors must properly align with the docking station for the robot to charge correctly. If incorrectly aligned, the robot vacuum may still detect the dock, but won’t charge.
Check the Batteries
Over time, the batteries in your Shark vacuum may simply stop holding a charge. Check the lithium-ion battery to ensure it’s not the problem. If it is, you may need to replace the battery or take the vacuum to a repair shop.
How to Fix a Shark Robot Vacuum That Won’t Charge
When your Shark robot vacuum is not charging, it can be a frustrating experience. Thankfully, there are several steps that you can take to troubleshoot and fix the problem.
Check the Power Switch
Ensure the switch located on the side of your Shark robot vacuum is in the on position. If it is in the off position, your vacuum will not charge.
Check the Power Source
If your robot vacuum still won’t charge, check the outlet that the charging dock is using. Ensure it is working by testing it with another electronic device, such as a phone or laptop. If the outlet isn’t working, the issue is not with your vacuum, but with the outlet itself. If the outlet is working, then try a different charging dock to see if the issue is with the Shark dock.
Check the Charging Dock
Where your charging dock is placed can affect its performance. Make sure the dock is located on a hard floor, and that it is not placed on a carpet as this may cause issues with docking. If the dock is not properly placed, your Shark robot vacuum may not be able to connect and charge.
Clean the Shark Robot Vacuum
Dirt and dust can accumulate on your Shark robot vacuum, which can lead to blocked proximity sensors. Use a soft, microfiber cloth to clean your robot vacuum thoroughly. Pay extra attention to the contact plate to ensure it is well cleaned. Also, clean the two charging plates located on the bottom of the robot.
Clean the Charging Dock
Dirt and debris can also accumulate on the charging dock. Clean the two charging plates located on the dock that connect to your Shark robot vacuum. If the dirt is hard to come off, use alcohol wipes to remove it. Dirt on the sensors may cause your robot to have docking issues.
Ensure Proper Alignment
Your Shark robot vacuum must be correctly aligned on the dock. Ensure that the charging plates of the robot vacuum are in contact with the charging station. If your robot needs to be placed manually on the dock, check that the alignment is precise by ensuring the charging lights on both the robot and charging dock are on.
Contact Shark Support
If all the above troubleshooting solutions fail to resolve your issue, contact Shark’s customer support. They can offer advice on your problem, including advice on weak springs or battery replacement.
Solve Shark Robot Vacuum Not Charging
Are you struggling with a Shark robot vacuum that won’t charge? There could be various reasons why your robot vacuum cannot hold a charge. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to solve the charging issue. In this article, we will outline the common reasons why your Shark robot vacuum is not charging and provide you with practical solutions. From faulty power sources to battery life and replacement batteries, we’ll discuss all the factors that may be impacting the charging of your Shark robot vacuum.
Ensure the Shark Robot Vacuum is Powered On
At times, Shark Robot vacuums tend to stop working on their scheduled cleaning task, even though you’ve placed them on the charging dock with the expectation that they will be fully charged before the next cleaning task begins. Most likely, the power switch is flipped to the opposite side (Off Option) when the Robovac bumps into furniture or trying to escape enclosed areas. Thus, always make sure that the power button is on to ensure uninterrupted, automated cleaning.
As a safeguard for its battery life, the Robovac features a power button, which should be turned on to put the device in an active state. Remember, shutting off the Robovac will put the device in sleep mode, halting all the automated functions until the power switch is turned back on again.
When the power switch is turned off, the Robovac won’t be able to communicate with the connected device or charge correctly, even after placing it on the charging station. Hence, it’s crucial to ensure that the power switch is set to the “On” position before docking the Shark Robot vacuum on its corresponding charging dock.
To ensure your Shark Robot vacuum maintains proper functionality, make sure to check that the power button is in the “On” position before placing the device back in its charging station. Additionally, when troubleshooting charging issues, always check that the power outlet is working correctly, and the power cord isn’t damaged.
Check Out the Power Outlet for Unstable Voltage
Maintaining your Shark Robot vacuum’s battery life is crucial to its functionality. If you’re experiencing trouble with charging, the first step should be to check the power outlet that the charging station is plugged into, even though it might seem insignificant. Troubleshooting the power outlet is one of the most critical steps in resolving a Shark Robot vacuum not charging issue.
If the power outlet is unstable, it could cause problems with the Robovac’s charging. An old power outlet that sometimes works and sometimes doesn’t must be replaced to resolve the power issue. Using an outlet tester to identify potential wiring problems that might disturb voltage stability is recommended.
Before getting an outlet tester, inspect the indicator light on the charging station. If the light is very faint, unstable, or not active at all, it indicates that there might be a power issue. To see if the wall outlet is still functioning correctly, you can try plugging in another device with an indicator light or a light plug.
When testing the wall outlet, try using a surge protector with an electronic device to see if the outlet can power other devices. If the wall outlet appears to be the problem, try plugging the charging station into another outlet in the house to see if it resolves the issue.
Examine the Robovac Charging Station
The Robovac charging station is responsible for providing power to the device, allowing it to do its job and keep your home clean. However, after prolonged use, the charging port contact springs can become clogged with dirt and dust, which can lead to your Shark Robot vacuum not charging.
To avoid this issue, it is essential to keep the charging station clean at all times, especially if it has been left standing for an extended period. A dry microfiber cloth can be used to wipe the whole charger, ensuring any debris or dirt is removed and preventing it from covering the sensors implanted around the charging station.
Physical damage is another potential cause of your Shark Robot vacuum not charging correctly. Although there may be no visible signs of damage, it is important to take some time to examine the charging station carefully. A faulty charging dock can cause serious issues, and in this case, replacement is the best option over repairs, which could prove more costly than purchasing a new one.
Even though internal damage can be hard to identify, taking the time to examine the charging station physically can be of great help. It is better to replace the charging station if you have used the device for years than to opt for other alternative options that might not be as effective.
Clean Off the Device Charging Contacts
To ensure that your Shark Robot Vacuum charges flawlessly, it is crucial to maintain clean charging contacts on both the device and the charging station. The charging process for Robovacs is conductive, meaning the device’s metal charging pins must have a physical and clean contact with the charging station’s metal pins.
Start by turning the Roomba over to locate the charging contacts beneath the robot. Use a dry microfiber cloth or alcohol wipes to thoroughly clean both contacts. It is essential to avoid moisture or liquids that could damage the device.
Remember to also clean the charging contacts on the charging station using a dry microfiber cloth. Keep in mind that any debris or dirt on the charging station’s contacts can interfere with the charging process.
In addition to cleaning charging contacts, it is also essential to check the infrared lights and proximity sensors that align and position the robot vacuum cleaner during the automatic docking process. These sensors are usually located at the front bumper, so take a closer look and wipe them clean with a soft microfiber cloth.
Duck the Shark Robot Vacuum Manually
It’s not uncommon for a Shark Robot Vacuum to have a power issue, leading to a failure to find its charging station when it’s low on power. Even when it does, oftentimes, it shutters and fails to dock properly. If that’s the case, you may need to dock it manually to ensure the robot vacuum achieves a full charge.
To manually dock the Shark Robot Vacuum, ensure that it’s aligned correctly with the charging dock. Place the Roomba onto the charging station and ensure that the charging pins on the Robovac connect with the ones on the charging station. Wait for a couple of minutes to see if the charging signal comes up as the device powers up gradually.
It’s important to note that it may take up to four hours for the Shark Robot Vacuum to fully charge after manual docking. You’ll know it’s ready to use when its indicator signals through blue flashing light during charging and constant blue light when fully charged.
After manually docking your Shark Robot Vacuum and waiting for it to recharge fully, you can program it to schedule some cleaning tasks effortlessly, using your smartphone and monitoring as it performs the task in real time.
Examine the Charging Contact Springs
When it comes to charging your Shark Robot vacuum, the charging contact springs play a crucial role in ensuring a steady charging connection between the vacuum and its charging station. Without a strong and consistent connection between the two, your vacuum won’t charge properly.
Inspecting the charging contact springs is an important step to take if you’re experiencing charging issues with your robotic vacuum. A charging contact spring that is slack or inactive can result in improper charging of your Shark Robot vacuum, regardless of whether it is docked automatically or manually placed on the charging station.
To inspect the charging contact springs on your Shark Robot vacuum charging station, simply remove the vacuum from the station and examine the two charging pins on the dock. Press on the metal pins with your finger to see if they spring back into place. If they don’t, it is likely that those charging contact springs have slack and are unable to maintain the proper connection needed to charge your vacuum.
Reconnect the Shark Robot Vacuum Battery
Rechargeable devices, such as the Shark Robot Vacuum, are known to malfunction when their battery is not properly connected. In such cases, there’s a possibility that your Shark Robot Vacuum’s charging system cannot activate due to a disconnected battery.
It won’t hurt to spend a few moments checking the battery compartment. If you suspect that the charging issue results from a sudden glitch in programming, unplugging and reconnecting the battery can sometimes act as a rebooting mechanism.
To access the battery of the Shark Robot Vacuum, turn the device over and locate the battery compartment on the other side. Use a Philip head screwdriver to unscrew the cover of the battery bay, and then remove the cover to reveal the battery.
Carefully remove the battery from the connector, then unplug it. Wait a few seconds before reconnecting the battery to its connector and returning it to its original position.
Before testing the Shark Robot Vacuum, ensure that you’ve completely screwed the battery cover back in place to prevent electrical injury. If you suspect that your Shark Robot Vacuum battery has worn out, you may want to consider replacing it.
Replace Worn Shark Robovac Battery
Replacing a worn-out battery on your Shark Robot vacuum can bring it back to life when it stops charging and doesn’t seem to take up power. Follow these simple and effective steps to replace your RVBAT700 battery and troubleshoot the charging problem.
First, turn off the Roomba and flip it over gently to access the battery compartment that’s on the underside. Retrieve a Phillips-head screwdriver and unscrew the battery cover to expose the battery. Carefully take the old battery out and disconnect it from the motherboard by removing the battery wire from the connector.
It’s time to install the new battery. Begin by connecting the battery wire to the battery connector on the Roomba motherboard. Take the RVBAT700 battery and install it back into the battery compartment, positioning it carefully before screwing in the cover. Make sure the cover is tightly secured to prevent any electrical mishaps.
Now, to check if the battery replacement worked, place the Roomba on its charging station manually and wait for the battery to charge up. Remember to reset the device before using it.
When replacing batteries, it’s essential to ensure the safety of both yourself and the device. Therefore, if you feel that the process is beyond your expertise, it’s best to leave it to a professional.
Replacing the RVBAT700 battery on your Shark Robot vacuum is an efficient solution to solve charging issues and restore your device’s power. Make sure to perform regular maintenance to keep your Roomba running smoothly for long.
Update Robovac Firmware
Outdated firmware can sometimes make your Shark Robot vacuum not charge properly or act erratically. That being said, it’s important to be diligent and perform all necessary steps to get Robovac back on track.
Start by accessing your smartphone’s device settings, where you’ll find the Shark app you used to connect to the Robovac. From there, check for any firmware updates and install them immediately.
Firmware updates serve multiple purposes, from fixing bugs and glitches to optimizing performance and compatibility. This simple step can make a world of difference in getting your Shark Robot vacuum to charge without any issues.
Don’t overlook the importance of updating your Robovac’s firmware. Just a quick check and install can solve your charging woes and improve its performance overall.
Reset the Robovac Settings to Default
Restarting electronic devices is often the best solution when facing any glitches, particularly with smart home devices. So, if you experience difficulties with your Shark Robot vacuum charging, the first step is to reset it to its default settings.
To do this, access the device’s Shark Robot vacuum settings through the connected device. Look for the reset option and choose to reset all personalizations to factory default. This process will delete all previous settings that may have interfered with the vacuum charging.
Resetting the Shark Robot vacuum to factory default is a quick and straightforward process, and it provides a fresh start for the device, eliminating any customizations that could be causing the charging issue. Remember to access the settings via the connected device and select the reset option.
FAQs
How Do I Know My Shark Robot Is Charging?
To ensure that your Shark robot vacuum is charging, keep an eye out for the flashing blue indicator lights during the charging process. If the blue light fails to flash or a red error light appears, it indicates that the robot isn’t charging. To fix this, gently push the robot towards the charging dock to establish contact between the charging plates.
In case your issue doesn’t get resolved, check the power source, dock button, metal pins, battery cover, battery contacts, battery cable, or replacement batteries. Regular maintenance and using a dry microfiber or damp cloth can also help prolong the battery life. If the problem persists, contact customer service for further assistance.
How Do I Know If My Shark Ion Robot Is Charged?
To find out if your Shark Ion robot is charged, check the LED indicator lights on the robot. When your robot is fully charged, the LED indicator lights will show a solid blue color. This indicates that your robot is ready for a cleaning task. If the LED lights are not showing a solid blue color, the robot might still be charging or there could be a power issue.
Check the power source, charging dock, battery compartment, and charging cable to ensure they are functioning properly. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the robot and its components, including the metal pins and battery contacts, can also help to ensure proper charging and extend the battery life.
How Long Will the Shark Robot Battery Last?
The Shark robot battery has an average lifespan of 2 years and comes with a 2-year limited warranty. A full charge provides a runtime of 60-120 minutes, depending on the cleaning mode or flooring in your home.
What Does the Red Light Mean on My Shark Robot Vacuum?
If the “Clean” button on your Shark robot vacuum flashes red, it could indicate that the device is stuck on an object or jammed on the front bumper. In this situation, you may need to provide assistance to dislodge the vacuum and resume cleaning.
Should I Leave My Shark Robot on All the Time?
When you purchase your Shark robot vacuum cleaner, you may wonder whether or not it is best to leave it on all the time. Fortunately, leaving it turned on all the time is not necessary. You can choose to turn it on and off at your own convenience.
This feature is especially useful to program and scheduling your cleaning task. Therefore, feel free to turn it on and off at your convenience and get your cleaning done effortlessly.
Conclusion:
If your Shark robot vacuum is not charging, there are several common reasons why this might be happening. These can include a faulty power outlet, dead batteries, or an issue with the charging dock or cable.
To troubleshoot the issue, you can try checking the power source and cable for any signs of damage, connecting the vacuum directly to a wall outlet instead of a power strip, or examining the battery compartment for any loose connections or debris.
If these simple steps do not solve the issue, it may be necessary to contact customer service or consider purchasing replacement batteries or a new charging station. By understanding the common reasons why a Shark robot vacuum may not be charging, you can take proactive steps to keep your electronic device in top working condition.