If you own a Shark vacuum, you may have experienced the frustration of it not charging. This can lead to a lot of inconveniences, especially when you have a cleaning task that needs to be completed urgently. But before you think about replacing your vacuum, it’s important to troubleshoot the issue first.
In this article, we will cover the common reasons why your Shark vacuum may not be charging and provide simple steps to fix the problem. We will also discuss some tips for regular maintenance to prevent excessive dirt buildup and the importance of replacing the battery when needed.
Read carefully so you can get back to cleaning with a fully charged vacuum.
The Vacuum Does Not Charge
If you are having trouble with your Shark vacuum not charging, there are a few common reasons why this might be happening. In this article, we will go over each of these reasons and provide you with simple steps to fix the problem. Whether it is a faulty power outlet or a dead battery, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn more about how to get your Shark vacuum up and running again.
Charging Base Not Plugged Into Outlet
Ensure that the charging adapter is correctly connected to both the charging base and power outlet. The charging adapter should be inserted into the back of the charging base while being plugged into a power outlet to power the charging process.
If the charging base isn’t lighting up, try pressing the dock button to confirm if that increases the power. Check on the battery compartment contacts to see if there’s any dirt buildup impacting the charging process. If the charging base’s indicator light continues to stay off, consider plugging it into a different power outlet or try using a different charging adapter.
Regular maintenance can avoid common charging issues like this one. Clean the charging base with a dry microfiber cloth to remove excess dirt or any water droplets that may be causing the issue. Remember to keep track of the battery life and replace the rechargeable battery, if needed, with a lithium-ion battery to keep the vacuum running smoothly.
In the case of a faulty charging base, reach out to customer service for further assistance. They can guide you through simple steps like replacing the battery cover or metal pin. If you’re using a robot vacuum cleaner, ensure that they have access to the charging base. Proximity sensors play a significant role in the charging process, and excessive dirt on the vacuum head or rolling brush can impact it.
Vacuum Loose From Charging Base
When the vacuum is not securely docked in the charging base, it can cause charging issues. Ensure that the device is fully placed in the charging base and there is no excess room for it to move around. You can press the dock button to make sure that it is firmly attached to the charging dock.
Check the charging contacts for dirt or debris, as this can prevent the vacuum from charging properly. Use a dry microfiber cloth to clean the contacts and ensure that they are free from any dirt buildup.
Excess dirt on the vacuum head or rolling brush can also prevent it from properly docking in the charging base. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the docking station to ensure that the vacuum fits snugly in the dock.
Water droplets on the electronic device can also cause charging issues, so ensure that the vacuum and all its components are dry before attempting to dock it in the charging base.
Charge Contacts Obstructed
Ensure your Shark Robot vacuum charges properly by regularly checking the charge contacts for obstructions. When too much dirt or dust accumulates, it can impede the charging process. Keep the metal contacts on both the charging base and the motorized brush clean and free of debris to ensure a consistent connection.
For the best results, wipe the charge contacts with a dry cloth before using the vacuum and clean with alcohol wipes once a week. With regular cleaning, you can ensure that your Shark Robot vacuum is always ready for its next cleaning task.
Remember, obstructed charging contacts are one of the most common reasons for a faulty device. By taking simple steps to keep the connections clean, you can avoid the frustration of a dead battery and enjoy uninterrupted cleaning power.
Shark Robot Vacuum Not Charging? Easy Solutions
There’s nothing more frustrating than a vacuum that won’t charge, and the Shark Robot Vacuum is no exception. Whether it’s due to a faulty power outlet or excessive dirt buildup, a dead battery can be a real inconvenience.
But don’t worry – there are simple steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue and get your Shark back to work. Read on for easy solutions to common reasons why your Shark Robot Vacuum may not be charging.
Turn on the Power Switch
When it comes to Shark vacuums, unlike most robotic vacuums, there is a physical power switch. It is essential to note that the Shark vacuum will not charge when the switch is in the off position. So, before attempting to charge your Shark Ion vacuum, make sure the power switch is on.
Once the switch is turned on, you can try to charge the battery again. If it charges successfully, then that’s great news for you. However, if it still won’t charge, there might be other problems affecting your vacuum’s battery life.
Before contacting customer service or moving on to more drastic fixes, it’s best to check the power source, battery cover, and charging dock. Try cleaning the battery contacts with a dry microfiber cloth and removing any dirt buildup in the charging station.
Also, make sure that the vacuum’s battery compartment and charging dock button are securely connected. And if the battery is dead, it might be time to replace it with a new one.
Test the Power Outlet
As the saying goes, it’s always best to check the basics first. In this case, that means testing your power outlet before undertaking more drastic solutions to troubleshoot your charging station.
Every home has that one power outlet that never seems to work correctly. Before checking the charging station itself, it’s crucial to check the power outlet to ensure that it’s providing electricity to the charging station. This simple step could save you significant time and expense.
Your Shark charging station comes with an indicator light that indicates whether it’s receiving electricity from the outlet. If the light is off or blinking, it’s likely that the outlet isn’t working correctly.
One way to confirm this is to use an outlet tester, which is a simple and inexpensive device that checks the wiring of the outlet. Alternatively, you can use any electronic device or a lamp that works fine with the outlet, to confirm if the issue is with the outlet.
If it turns out that it’s a damaged outlet that’s causing the problem, switching to another outlet could solve the issue. If there’s no other option available, you can quickly solve the issue by replacing the charging station cord. That’s almost always cheaper than replacing the vacuum cleaner itself.
Clean the Charging Contacts and Sensors
To ensure your Shark Robot Vacuum is charging properly, it’s crucial to keep the metallic rectangles, which are the charging contacts, clean, and the infrared lights and proximity sensors aligned with the docking station.
Start by flipping your vacuum over and locating the charging contacts just in front of the battery compartment. Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe away any visible dirt. For more stubborn stains, clean the contacts with alcohol wipes.
Next, you’ll need to access the infrared lights and proximity sensors by opening the front bumper. Carefully wipe them down with a dry microfiber cloth, and use a compressed air can to remove any dust or debris that may be difficult to reach. It’s important to ensure there is no dirt buildup on any of the components that make docking unsuccessful.
Clean the Charging Dock
As a part of your regular maintenance routine, it is important to keep your charging dock clean and free of dust buildup. While it doesn’t require frequent cleaning, it’s still essential to make sure it’s in top condition to maintain proper functioning.
The shiny window that extends around your dock serves as the sensor window that should be kept clean to let your robot vacuum navigate properly. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe away the dirt buildup from the sensor window without exposing the sensors.
If the microfiber cloth fails to remove all the dirt, you can use alcohol wipes that don’t leave any residue behind. Ensure that you don’t apply excessive pressure while cleaning with a cloth or a wipe to avoid damaging the charging plates or the sensor window.
Check the Charging Port Contact Springs
When it comes to your Shark vacuum not charging, the issue might lie with the charging port contact springs on the charging dock. The metal pins on the dock should be spring-activated in order for the charging contacts on your vacuum to adequately connect and charge.
To check the status of these springs, press the metal pins with your finger and make sure they spring back into place. If they don’t retract, this could be the reason that your Shark Ion vacuum is not charging.
In such a scenario, replacing your charging dock would be the best solution. This is because the springs not functioning properly would result in the vacuum not being able to maintain a good connection with the dock. Without a good connection, your vacuum might not settle properly, and, as a result, it will not be able to charge.
Therefore, if your Shark vacuum is not charging, be sure to check the metal pins and contact springs on the charging dock to ensure that a good connection is made.
Manually Dock Your Vacuum
If you find yourself with a Shark vacuum that has a dead battery, manually docking it can be the quickest solution. This is especially useful if the machine can’t even attempt to find its dock. Placing the vacuum directly on the charger, ensure that the charging plates are properly aligned with the contacts on the dock. The front of the machine should be about 1/2 inch from the vertical portion of the dock.
If the battery is completely dead, waiting several minutes for the Shark to register that it is charging is necessary. Once the registration occurs, the blue light will begin flashing, indicating that your job is done. However, if you notice the light turns green, wiggling the machine back into alignment is essential.
It’s important to wait for the vacuum to charge completely before using it again. Losing the connection prematurely means you’ll have to restart this manual docking process. To avoid these issues, keep the alignment and contacts of the charger and battery in check regularly.
Reconnect the Battery
To ensure your Shark robot vacuum is properly functioning and charging, it is important to make sure the battery is securely connected. To do this, you must first access the battery compartment which is located under the battery cover, between the roller brush and the charging contacts.
After flipping the vacuum over and unscrewing the battery cover, carefully pull the battery out far enough to reach the cable. Disconnect the cable from the vacuum and then reconnect it, making sure that it forms a tight connection with the port. This will help guarantee that the battery is receiving the proper charge.
Once the cable is properly connected to the port, replace the battery cover and flip the vacuum back over. You can now attempt to press the dock button again or manually dock the vacuum. This simple step can save you time and money in looking for replacements, and ultimately keep your Shark robot vacuum running smoothly.
Replace the Battery
If your Shark Ion has been performing for about two years, you may notice that the battery life isn’t what it used to be. That’s a clear sign that it’s time to replace the battery. It’s crucial to opt for a compatible battery pack that is ideal for your specific Shark model, failing which it may not work at all.
The great thing is that batteries such as RV700, RV720, RV750, RV755, Ecovacs N79, and N795 are compatible with one another. There is also another option for most Shark robot vacuum models.
Once you have the new battery in hand, carefully remove the battery cover. Detach the cable from the old battery and do the same with the old battery. Now, securely place the new battery in the battery compartment, and make sure it is inserted correctly.
Do not forget to dispose of the old battery appropriately, recognizing that it is a lithium-ion battery. Finally, give your new battery a test charging by switching on your vacuum and checking that all the charging indicators are on track. This will help you to understand whether your newly bought battery has been placed correctly or not.
Contact Shark Support
When faced with a circumstance where your Shark vacuum is not charging, you may want to start by contacting Shark Support. Reaching out to them can help you find out if your vacuum is still under warranty and whether you can have it serviced or replaced. This is a hassle-free option that may save you money. It is advised that you have your receipt on hand for verification purposes.
It is important to note that not all vacuums may be eligible for free replacement under warranty. If your vacuum is relatively new and well-maintained, there might be a possibility of free service or replacement. However, in other cases, you may have to pay for assistance. Regardless, it is worth giving Shark a call or sending an email to discuss your options.
To ensure a smooth process, make sure to have all the necessary documentation on hand, such as your vacuum receipt and other relevant information. You can reach Shark’s Support team through landline at the number provided on their website or by dropping them an email with your query. Utilizing Shark’s Support option is one of the most efficient ways to handle vacuum-related issues, allowing you to focus on other important tasks.
Get a Replacement Vacuum
If previous troubleshooting steps have failed to revive your Shark vacuum, seeking a replacement may be your only recourse. While Shark vacuums boast impressive durability and cleaning capabilities, even the best machines will eventually wear out with typical usage. Most Shark robot vacuums should last between 4 to 6 years with good maintenance.
If you’re considering replacing your Shark vacuum, you may be interested in comparing Shark vacuums with Roomba models. While Sharks offer greater all-around performance, Roombas may be better suited for users with allergies and are more effective at cleaning around tight edges in your home.
Before settling on a replacement, it’s worth comparing Shark models with one another. For instance, the Shark Ion AV753, Shark AI RV2001, and Shark IQ RV1001AE all have unique features which might influence your purchasing decision.
FAQs
What should I do if my Shark robot vacuum’s battery seems to be running low quickly?
If you notice that your Shark robot vacuum’s battery is getting depleted quickly, try cleaning the vacuum head and dust canister. Also, make sure that there is no dirt buildup on the rolling brush as it can cause excessive battery usage.
How can I improve the battery life of my Shark robot vacuum?
To improve the battery life of your Shark robot vacuum, make sure you regularly maintain it using dry microfiber cloths. Also, avoid using the vacuum in wet areas or near water droplets. Additionally, proximity sensors and infrared lights in the device can cause battery drain, so try to use it in a well-lit area instead of a dark room.
Conclusion:
If you’re facing issues with your Shark vacuum not charging, this article provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide to help you resolve the problem. From checking the power source and charging dock to cleaning the battery compartment and contacts, following these simple steps can go a long way in ensuring that your vacuum remains in good working condition.
Additionally, regular maintenance such as cleaning the vacuum head and dust canister with dry microfiber cloths can improve the battery life of the device. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact customer service for assistance. With these tips, you can keep your Shark vacuum up and running and complete any cleaning task efficiently and effectively.
