Leave it docked
Modern chargers stop at full and trickle. Storing a robot off the dock lets the pack self-discharge to a damaging low state within a few months.
Keep the dock cool
Heat is the main ageing factor. A dock beside a radiator or in a sunny hallway can sit at 35 °C, which roughly halves cycle life.
Schedule shorter, more frequent runs
A 40-minute daily clean is a shallow cycle; a 180-minute weekly clean is a deep one. Shallow cycles are far gentler on lithium cells.
Avoid Max mode by default
High current draw heats the pack. Use carpet-boost or per-room settings so Max only runs where it matters.
Storage for a month or more
Charge to about 50%, power off fully, store at room temperature. Recharge before first use.
Replacing the pack
Replacement packs cost $25–$60 and swap via a screwed panel on the underside. Buy the brand's own pack — third-party cells frequently misreport capacity.
Measured runtime vs. rated, Standard mode
| Robot | Rated | Measured |
|---|---|---|
| JONR R7 Pro | 210 min | 203 min |
| Dreame L20 Ultra | 260 min | 251 min |
| Roborock Q5 Pro | 240 min | 236 min |
| Roomba Combo j9+ | 120 min | 108 min |
Frequently asked questions
How long does a robot vacuum battery last?
Two to three years with poor habits, five or more with the ones above. Capacity loss is gradual — a robot that used to finish the house and now docks mid-run is the usual symptom.