Roomba 205 DustCompactor

User Guide

Introduction

This guide will walk you through the setup and operation of your Roomba 205 DustCompactor.

  1. Remove protective film from the camera and foam inserts behind the bumper.
  2. Place the Home Base on a hard floor, ensuring good Wi-Fi coverage and adequate clearance (0.5m on sides, 1.5m from stairs, 1.5m in front). Avoid direct sunlight and keep the area around the base clear for optimal docking.
  3. Connect the Home Base to power. Wrap the power cord to prevent it from obstructing the robot's movement.
  4. Reinstall the side brush by aligning it and pressing down until it clicks.

Note: The robot comes partially charged. It is recommended to charge it for at least 4 hours before first use.

Starting the Robot

Position the robot in front of the Home Base and slide it towards the base, aligning the charging contacts. A beep will indicate the robot is active after a few minutes.

Note: For optimal performance, charge the robot for at least 4 hours before the first use.

Download the Roomba® Home App

Scan the QR code or find the Roomba® Home App in the App Store or Google Play. The app will guide you through setup and allow you to:

Important: Read the included safety information before using the robot.

Robot Overview: Roomba® 205 DustCompactor™

Top View

Bottom View

DustCompactor™ Bin Information

Note: The water tank may contain a small amount of residual water due to quality inspection. This is normal.

Note: The DustCompactor™ bin must be installed for both vacuuming and vacuum and wash modes. Otherwise, the mopping function cannot be activated.

Home Base Information

Charging

Power button indicator:

The robot will return to the Home Base to recharge whenever needed. Once sufficiently charged, it will resume cleaning from where it left off.

Standby Mode: The robot uses a limited amount of electricity when on the Home Base. To further reduce power consumption when not in use, press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds. To exit power-saving mode, briefly press the Power button.

Storing the Robot: If storing the robot for extended periods, turn it off by removing it from the Home Base and holding the Power button for 10 seconds. Store in a cool, dry place.

Cleaning

Button Controls

Cleaning Pattern

The robot will explore and clean your home in precise lines. It will return to the Home Base upon completion of a cleaning cycle and whenever it needs to recharge.

Tips:

SPOT Clean

Press the button twice for a SPOT Clean of a specific area. The robot will end the operation upon completion. Press the Home button to return it to the Home Base.

Vacuuming Only

  1. If the DustCompactor™ bin is full, empty it before cleaning.
  2. Remove the water tank and pad by pressing the release buttons on both sides of the robot and sliding them out.
  3. To start cleaning, reposition the robot on the Home Base and use the app or press the Power button.

Important: Regular cleaning of the DustCompactor™ bin reduces dirt buildup. Failure to do so may decrease the robot's performance.

Vacuum and Wash (Combo Models Only)

When the water tank and pad are installed, the robot can vacuum and mop simultaneously. The robot automatically avoids carpets when in combined vacuum and wash or wash-only modes with the water tank and pad installed.

Important: Do not add hot water, detergent, or disinfectant to the water tank, as it may damage the robot. Use only cold water or an iRobot-approved cleaning solution as indicated on our support website at global.irobot.com.

After completing a vacuum and wash cycle, be sure to empty the water tank and replace the pad.

  1. Slide the cleaning pad along the water tank's groove, then firmly attach the pad to the Velcro.
  2. Fill the water tank with water by opening its cap, then reinsert the cap.
  3. Reinstall the water tank. Slide the water tank into the bottom of the robot horizontally until it clicks into place.
  4. Reposition the robot on the Home Base and use the app or the Power button to start cleaning.

Note: If the robot needs water during a cleaning cycle, tap the Power button or press PAUSE in the mobile app to pause. Remove the tank, add water, and reinstall the tank. Press the Power button or RESUME in the app to resume.

Note: It is highly recommended to use the Roomba® Home App for cleaning control. The mobile app can be used to clean specific rooms, set up cleaning routines, and create automations/schedules.

Note: Roomba robots are generally designed for vacuuming most floor types. It is recommended not to use the mopping functions on unsealed hardwood floors and certain laminate/vinyl plank floors, as water damage may occur to the floor and/or subfloor. For more information, visit global.irobot.com.

Robot Care and Maintenance Instructions

To maintain optimal robot performance, perform the following basic care and maintenance periodically. More instructional videos are available from the Roomba® Home App. If you notice the robot picking up less debris from your floor, empty the dustbin and clean the filter and brushes.

Part Maintenance Frequency Replacement Frequency*
DustCompactor™ Bin Empty as needed
Water Tank (combo models only) Empty after each use
Filter Clean once a week (or twice if you have a pet) Every 3-6 months
Wall-following side brush Clean every 2 weeks or as needed Every 3-6 months
Multi-surface brush Clean once a week Every 6-12 months
Front caster wheel Clean every 2 weeks or as needed Replace if worn or damaged
Charging contacts Clean every 2 weeks or as needed
Sensors Clean once a month or as needed
Pad (combo models only) Clean after mopping Every 3-6 months. Dispose of with household waste when no longer usable.
Brush cover Inspect every 6 months

Important: It is recommended to replace the wall-following side brush every 3-6 months for optimal cleaning effect.

Note: Before use, clean the water tank electrode plates with a dry cloth.

Attention: Do not rinse the water tank or immerse it in water. To prevent damage from corrosion and other types, do not use any detergent, disinfectant, solid cleaner, or other cleaning product on the water tank.

Attention: Do not add hot water to the water tank, as this may cause it to deform.

*Replacement frequency may vary. Parts should be replaced if visible signs of wear are present. If you need a replacement part, contact iRobot Customer Care for more information.

Cleaning the Multi-Surface Brush

  1. Press the brush cover release tabs and lift to remove the cover.
  2. Remove the multi-surface brush.
  3. Remove hair and debris from the cleaning brush.
  4. Reinstall the multi-surface brush and brush cover onto the robot.

Note: For instructions on how to perform a deeper cleaning of the multi-surface brush, refer to global.irobot.com.

Important: It is recommended to replace the wall-following side brush every 6-12 months for optimal cleaning effect.

Cleaning the Front Caster Wheel

  1. Pull the caster wheel up to remove it.
  2. Remove hair and debris from the front caster wheel and caster wheel housing.
  3. Reinstall the caster wheel.

Important: A front wheel with tangled hair and debris may damage your floor. If the wheel does not spin freely after cleaning, contact Customer Care.

Cleaning Charging Contacts and Sensors

Clean the charging contacts and sensors with a clean, dry cloth or a slightly damp melamine foam. Charging Contacts Sensors

Important: Do not spray cleaning solution, detergents, or water directly onto the sensors or their housings.

Emptying the DustCompactor™ Bin and Cleaning the Filter

  1. Press the DustCompactor™ bin release button to remove the bin.
  2. Ensure the bin is upright and, over a trash can, push the release tab to open the bin.
  3. Empty contents into the trash.
  4. Remove the filter by pinching the tab and pulling the filter out.
  5. Remove debris by tapping the filter against the waste bin.
  6. Clean the bin with a clean cloth.
  7. Reinstall the filter.
  8. Securely close the compartment using the latch, ensuring all sides are sealed.
  9. Reposition the dustbin in the robot.

Important: Press all spaces that may be present around the perimeter of the lid. To ensure optimal operation, make sure the dustbin has a proper seal.

Cleaning the Water Tank (Combo Models Only)

  1. Simultaneously press both water tank release buttons, then slide the tank outward from the bottom of the floor washer as shown.
  2. Discard old water and rinse with clean water.
  3. Dry the exterior of the tank compartment before reinstalling it into the robot.

Note: If using a detergent to clean the tank, opt for a dish soap only and ensure you rinse it thoroughly before using it again in the robot. Soap can damage the device during operation.

Note: After mopping, immediately remove the water tank, discard any residual water, and clean and dry the pad to prevent persistent odors and mold.

Washing the Pad

Thoroughly hand wash the pad with cold water and allow it to air dry.

Home Base Care and Maintenance Instructions

To ensure optimal performance of the Home Base, follow the procedures described on the following pages.

Part Maintenance Frequency Replacement Frequency*
Charging contacts Clean once a month
IR window Clean once a month

Cleaning Charging Contacts and IR Window: Inspect components for any dirt residue. Clean with a clean, dry cloth.

Important: Do not spray cleaning solution or water directly onto the sensors or sensor housings.

Troubleshooting

Robot Troubleshooting

The robot will notify you of problems with a voice announcement or audio alert. The Roomba® Home App will also provide notifications with steps to resolve any issues. If you are unsure whether the robot has finished or is paused, check the Roomba® Home App for its status.

Factory Reset

To reset to factory settings, press the Power button for 5 seconds, then (within 5 seconds) press the Home button + Power button for another 5 seconds.

Home Base Troubleshooting

If the Home Base is not functioning as expected, check the Roomba® Home App for any errors.

Battery Safety and Shipping

Warning: Lithium-ion batteries and products containing them are subject to strict shipping regulations. If you need to ship this product for service, moving, or other purposes, you MUST follow these shipping instructions.

TURN OFF the battery before shipping.

Disable the battery by removing the robot from the Home Base and holding the Power button for 10 seconds. Press the bumper for 10 seconds and the Home button simultaneously. All lights will turn off. Pack the robot securely for shipping.

Need Further Assistance? We're Here to Help.

Download the Roomba® Home App or visit global.irobot.com for product support, or contact your local service center. For additional assistance in the United States and Canada, call Customer Care at (877) 855-8593.

iRobot Customer Care Hours (US):

Safety Information: Refer to the safety guide provided with your robot or visit global.irobot.com.

PDF preview unavailable. Download the PDF instead.

roomba-205-dustcompactor Adobe PDF Library 17.0 Adobe InDesign 20.0 (Macintosh)

Related Documents

Preview Roomba 205 DustCompactor User Manual
This user manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining the Roomba 205 DustCompactor robot. Learn about its features, cleaning modes, charging, troubleshooting, and essential maintenance procedures to ensure optimal performance.
Preview Robot Roomba 205 DustCompactor User Guide
This user guide provides instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining the Robot Roomba 205 DustCompactor. Learn about its features, cleaning modes, and troubleshooting.
Preview Roomba 205 DustCompactor Owner's Guide
This guide provides instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining the iRobot Roomba 205 DustCompactor robot. Learn about charging, cleaning patterns, vacuuming and mopping modes, and troubleshooting.
Preview iRobot Q1 2025 Shareholder Letter: Innovative Product Launch and Strong Financial Outlook
iRobot Corporation's First Quarter 2025 Shareholder Letter detailing the successful launch of new Roomba products, operational restructuring, cost reductions, and positive financial results, with a focus on future growth and innovation.
Preview iRobot Roomba 205 Combo Owner's Guide
Comprehensive guide for the iRobot Roomba 205 Combo, covering setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for this advanced robotic vacuum and mop.
Preview iRobot Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo Robot Vacuum Cleaner
Detailed technical specifications and package contents for the iRobot Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo robot vacuum cleaner, including dimensions, weight, battery type, and included accessories.
Preview Roomba 205 DustCompactor Owner's Guide
This guide provides instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining the Roomba 205 DustCompactor robot vacuum. Learn about its features, cleaning modes, and troubleshooting.
Preview iRobot Launches Roomba 105 Combo and Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo for the Japanese Market
iRobot Japan announces the release of the new Roomba 105 Combo and Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo robot vacuums, designed for the Japanese market with features like a mechanical dust compression function.