[Fix my robot](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/) / [Roborock](https://robotsforthat.com/guides/roborock-error-codes/) / Fan error
● Checked Nov 3, 2026 From Roborock support

Roborock error 18

# Roborock Error 18: Fan error, and the fix

Steps **5**

Tools **None**

Parts Maybe filter

Works for Roborock robot vacuums (S, Q, Saros and Qrevo series).

Short answer Red light. The power light flashes red and the robot speaks the error.
**What it means:** The suction fan has a fault or is blocked by debris.

**Quick fix:** Clap the side of the robot a few times to shake debris out of the fan.

## Fix it in 5 steps

- Clap the side of the robot a few times to shake debris out of the fan. Done?
- Empty the dust bin. Done?
- Clean the filter and let it dry fully. Dry it outside the robot. Done?
- If the error stays, fit a brand new filter. Done?
- Update the robot's firmware to the latest version in the Roborock app. Did it work?

**Fixed when:** The fan runs and the robot cleans without the alert.

Great, it is fixed. Bookmark this page in case it comes back.

**Still showing Fan error?**

The error comes back after you follow these steps. Contact Roborock support with your model, serial number and the error number. Contact Roborock support at 1 855 960 4321 (24/7 (US)). [Roborock support →](https://support.roborock.com/hc/en-us/sections/360007120351-Troubleshooting)

## Parts that fix this

**Often linked to the filter.** A clogged filter cuts suction and makes the fan work harder.

**How old is your Roborock?**

[Fixes this · our kit 1 year refill kit for Roborock S8, S8+ and S8 Pro Ultra 2 rubber main rollers (1 set), 4 side brushes, 4 filters, 4 mop cloths. Free US shipping · Fit guarantee $16.99 See the kit →](https://robotsforthat.com/shop/roborock-s8-refill-kit/) [Just the filter For Roborock on Amazon Check price →](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Roborock%20replacement%20filters&tag=robotsforthatai-20) Check the part fits your model. Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Remind me when parts are due (one free email)

## Why it happens

- Debris inside the fan
- A full dust bin
- A blocked or wet filter
- Old firmware

## Other Roborock errors

[7 Wheels stuck ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-7/)[12 Battery too low ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-12/)[14 Battery error ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-14/)[15 Wall sensor dirty ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-15/)[16 Robot tilted ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-16/)[21 Vertical bumper pressed ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-21/)[22 Dock locator error ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-22/)[23 Cannot return to the dock ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-23/)[27 VibraRise mop lift stuck ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-27/)[28 Robot on carpet ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-28/)[42 Maintenance brush jammed ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-error-42/)[Internal error ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-internal-error/)[Fan speed lowered ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-fan-speed-lowered/)[No go zone or virtual wall detected ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-no-go-zone-detected/)[Cannot cross carpet ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-cannot-cross-carpet/)[Dock light steady red ›](https://robotsforthat.com/fix/roborock-dock-light-red/)[All 28 Roborock codes →](https://robotsforthat.com/guides/roborock-error-codes/)

## Keeps happening? Compare before you replace

[Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Flow $650 · Roller mop robot for mostly hard floor homes at a midrange price](https://robotsforthat.com/robot/roborock-qrevo-curv-2-flow/)[Check price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FXG2BDTJ?tag=robotsforthatai-20)

[Roborock Qrevo 2 Pro $600 · Midrange mop washing robot with auto mop removal under $600](https://robotsforthat.com/robot/roborock-qrevo-2-pro/)[Check price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GXF7ZQPY?tag=robotsforthatai-20)

[Narwal Flow 2 vs Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Flow Point by point](https://robotsforthat.com/vs/narwal-flow-2-vs-roborock-qrevo-curv-2-flow/)

**Own a Roborock? Keep it running.** Add it to My Robots. See fixes for your exact model, get an email when parts are due, and ask us to find a repair if it breaks. Free · no password

[Add my robot](https://robotsforthat.com/my/?add=1)

## Questions owners ask

What does Error 18 mean on a Roborock?

It is a fan error. Clap the side of the robot to dislodge debris, empty the bin, clean or replace the filter and update the firmware.

## Sources

- [Roborock support: What should I do if error 18 occurs](https://support.roborock.com/hc/en-us/articles/5747774156953-What-should-I-do-if-error-18-occurs)
- [Roborock support: robot vacuum user manual (errors list)](https://support.roborock.com/hc/en-us/article_attachments/4416002300441)
- [Roborock Help Center: Saros 10 troubleshooting](https://help.roborock.com/us/product/roborock-saros-10-message?category=troubleshooting)

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