A traditional cat litter box can be challenging to clean and handle, which is why self-cleaning litter box by ELS has gained immense popularity.
It promises automated cleanup, which transfers the litter into a trash bag and uses UV technology to keep the box as clean as possible.
The litter box can be controlled with the help of the ELS smartphone app – you can use the self-cleaning feature instantly or schedule the cleaning.
The litter box has a high-precision gravity detect feature that helps protect the cat from pinching, while the UV clean feature helps reduce odors. In addition, it’s fully enclosed, which prevents the spread of smells.
Common ELS PET Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box Problems Troubleshooting
Also, the litter box has a 60-liter capacity, which is perfect for different types of litter, such as mixed litters, plant litters, bentonite litters, and mixed litters.
However, before purchasing this unit, you must read about common ELS pet self-cleaning cat litter box problems troubleshooting, as it can help with minor performance errors on your own!
- Digital Display Is Not Responding
The cat litter box has been designed with a digital display screen, which can be used to configure the settings, such as cleaning time.
However, if the display doesn’t respond to your touch commands, it’s likely that you aren’t pressing the buttons for long enough because it’s recommended that you press the buttons for a few seconds.
The litter box is integrated with a capacitive sensor, which needs a firm and long press to interact with the panel.
However, if the screen doesn’t respond to a firm and long press either, it indicates that something is stuck under the digital panel.
To make sure that the panel starts working, you should remove the dirt or litter that’s wedged under it. For this purpose, you should have a toothpick, needle, and hard plastic sheet. Then, follow these steps;
- The first step is to press the disassembling tool under the panel, move it around, and repeat the same process on other sides of the panel
- Once the screen is loose, the dirt or litter granules will be removed. Then, you have to press on all sides of the screen
- Now, try using the screen, and it will work fine
In case you still have the protective cover of the digital display, it’s recommended that you keep it on to make sure debris doesn’t get beneath the display.
- Unable To Differentiate Between Auto & Manual Modes
The cat litter box is set to automatic mode as the default settings because the majority of people like the self-cleaning mode, which is why they don’t configure other settings.
However, many people just press the rake button on the display panel to configure the manual mode, but it doesn’t work because it won’t initiate the cleaning cycle unless you set it properly.
For this reason, if you have set the manual mode and the litter box is not cleaning, it means that you have to reboot the litter box.
To reboot the litter box, you should unplug it from the power source for ten seconds. After ten seconds, reconnect the litter box to the power source.
When the litter box turns on, it must be completely reset, and you will be able to use the automatic cleaning mode. In addition, you will be able to see the cleaning mode on the display panel.
In case you want to check if the litter box is working properly after the reboot or not, you can follow the below-mentioned instructions;
- Disconnect the litter box and turn it on after ten seconds
- Put something heavy (around 2kg) on the cat litter box to stimulate the machine
- Now, wait for thirty seconds, and the display panel will show the log
- Then, just wait for five to six minutes, and the self-cleaning cycle will be initiated
In addition, if you want to reset your box’s weight sensors, it’s recommended that you hit the sensor button on the settings.
- The Lid Won’t Attach
If you deep clean the litter box or top up the box with litter, you will have to remove the lid to make sure you can access the litter bed. As a result, many people have issues installing the lid.
That’s because it can be challenging to align the lid properly into the panel’s grooves. So, to attach the lid, you can try the following steps;
- Align the top cover of your litter box with the base’s back. It’s recommended that you attach the lid’s butt to make sure the sides sit well
- Then, slowly guide the back to the front side to make sure the lid falls into place (it might fumble a bit in the start, but you’ve to keep trying)
- When the top is aligned, check along the sides to make sure the lid fits into the litter box smoothly
- Now, just apply some pressure on the top of the lid to ensure it remains firmly in place
- The Cleaning Rake Doesn’t Stay On
The cleaning rake is connected to the cat litter box to make sure it doesn’t get lost. However, if the rake keeps falling, it indicates that it hasn’t been attached properly.
In most cases, it happens when there is a gap between the housing unit and the rake’s side. That’s because a gap occurs when there is an attachment issue.
So, if there is a gap between the rake and housing unit, it’s recommended that you check under the motor’s back and pull it up – it will help access the rake’s teeth, and pulling it up will realign the cleaning rake.
- Blue Light Is Blinking
When the litter box is fully operational, the LED indicators on the display panel will be solid green. However, if the blue light is blinking, it means that the waste trap isn’t installed properly.
The waste trap is responsible for locking away the solid waste to make sure it’s cleared out and the bad odor doesn’t linger. However, when it’s not aligned properly, the litter box won’t work.
For this purpose, we recommend that you align the waste trap into the base with the help of a plastic bag.
In addition, we recommend adding baking soda and a thin layer of litter to minimize the odor.
Once the waste trap is installed into the base, the green light will turn on, which means the litter box is fully operational.
When the light on the display panel becomes solid red, it means that something is wrong with the conveyor motor.
The conveyor motor can be fixed by rebooting the unit – you can turn off the litter box for ten minutes and turn it back on.
However, if rebooting doesn’t work, it’s recommended that you get the conveyor motor replaced by a professional. If there is a warranty available, you can call customer support.
- Blinking Red
In case the LED indicator is blinking red, it indicates an error with the bowl motor. You can try fixing the blinking red light by rebooting the unit.
For this purpose, you will have to switch off your litter box for ten minutes. When you turn on the litter box, it should start working normally.
- Cat’s Waste Is Falling Through The Conveyor
If the solid waste is coming out of the conveyor’s space, it means that you are using the incorrect litter. That’s because the experts recommend using scoopable, clumping, and clay litter.
On the other hand, if you are already using the correct litter, check the bowl because it shouldn’t be excessively filled with litter – the litter must be at or below the maximum level.
- Litter Keeps Collecting On The Base
If the litter is constantly collecting behind your conveyor or on the base of the conveyor, it’s recommended that you check the bowl because it shouldn’t have too much litter.
Keep in mind that the bowl shouldn’t be filled above the maximum fill line. For this reason, you should use the scoop or distribute the litter.
In addition to this, you should ensure that the waste guide is put in a lower position to make sure waste is properly moved to the conveyor.
- Grinding Noise
In most cases, the cat litter box makes grinding noises when the bowl has issues rotating. It happens when there is too much waste in the bowl.
For this reason, we recommend that you clean the unit, including the bowl. In addition, ensure that there is no litter between the litter box’s base and the bowl.
- Conveyor Is Unable To Move The Waste
The conveyor is designed to move the waste that’s in the bowl. However, if it’s not moving the waste, it means that the bowl isn’t rotating.
To resolve this issue, you should disconnect the power adapter for twenty seconds and reconnect it to the wall outlet. If it doesn’t work, you should call customer support.
The Bottom Line
An automated and self-cleaning cat litter box is a great convenience for pet lovers. We have mentioned a few problems associated with the litter box as well as its solutions.
So, if you want to fix any issue, this troubleshooting guide should be helpful. However, if the litter box is under warranty, you can claim free repair or part replacement to save money!
The rake gets stuck at the top and will not reset.
Mine worked fine for a month. Now it won’t clean no matter what you do. Probably a sensor problem I can’t figure out. We’ll see if there is any tech support
I have had various issues (many of what’s listed here) and only had the unit 3 months. I’m going to recycle it and get another litter robot. I’m afraid this product has far too many defects to continue to use it or to endorse it in any way. My other unit is a litter robot. While expensive, absolutely worth the money and superior.
If your machine has steady red light and resetting it doesn’t fix it, I figured it out. Steady red light means pedal tray isn’t recognized as being in place. On top of the pedal tray, in the center of the removable screen top toward the machine, is a little slot which should have a small magnet in it. This magnet is what the machine senses and therefore senses the pedal tray. If the magnet is missing the machine will never recognize the pedal tray. If you are lucky enough to find it superglue it back in place. The machine will be good to go. If lost then maybe the manufacturer can send one or possibly you can find another magnet to fit.
i dont think i see the magnet anymore. i have a solid red light and nothing eles works.
Also i see cat poop stuck in the rake but the rake wont come down.
could this be cuz i don’t have the magnet?
my door closed after first trial run now it won’t open keeps saying in standby mode customer service is not much help can’t understand the person plus no response to emails
Mine did the same thing until I found out that the front step was not connected properly
Y’all can anyone help? My litter box connected successful both to my app on my phone and to the internet, solid blue light is on below the buttons. But light around door is red and the app says “please note the pedal is released” however it is in place. I have held down the third button, the light around the door quickly turns green and then red again.
Mine is doing the same thing! I just got it less than a week ago and it started doing this in the morning!
Try wiping off the sensors on inside of box
Then hit the first and third button to reset if wiping sensors didn’t help
I’m currently having the same problem, can someone help me?
Check to see if the little magnet on the top of pedal screen top is still there. If it is gone the machine will never be able to recognize the pedal is in place. The magnet can fall out when cleaning. I super-glued mine back in when I realized it was missing (thankfully I found it).
my stopped working rake stuck at top. please help
Mine won’t turn off cleaning mode. It won’t even go into standby, just continuously cleaning and beeping at me. I’ve tried resetting and nothing happens. Any suggestions? Like most other people have said, this unit costs way too much to breakdown so early.
the rake won’t turn the green light keeps flashing. I have emailed for help twice n haven’t heard anything back. Is there a phone number to call to get help
Hold the third button from the left for 10 seconds. It should get it working again. Worked for me
Hi, I have the same problem. And after holding the third button for 10 seconds it will work for once, but that’s the only thing happened. It won’t work for further. Do you have same issue?
mines only been in use for just over 3 weeks and now the door won’t close when it rakes..grrrrr. did reset it which fixed the problem but it stuffed up again today. Any other answers? 1
I’m having the same issue but mine wont reset. Used it about 4 weeks and it stopped working Dec 31 2023. Contacted support every day since and still haven’t heard from them.
have you figured out how to fix it yet? mine is only a month old and the door is stuck open…the rake tries to run but gets stuck on the open door. This machine was way too expensive for this to be happening so early!
if anyone has any answers to this problem please help. Thank you!
I am having the same issue. Have you found a solution on how to fix it? I have emailed them without any response.
Hi, i have the same problem, do you have a solution?
Also same here and I would return but 78 days old. Who has been able to find a number for Kung fu pets? I need it!
Once door and scoop is stuck disassemble letter box fix the door and scoop we try that let you know work out
My door is stuck open with rake not moving. Anyone get answers to this?
Same thing here…bought on amazon, after just five days the returning window closed, the door would not close and the rake starts to go and if I wouldn’t unplug the machine the rake would break the door, that’s in the way…
Anybody knows what to do?
I’ve got 3 cats…should I just tell them to hold your pee and poo until they get back to me from China?!? (Sarcasm intended)
Did you ever get this resolved? I’m having the same issue!
press on/off button long and rake will return to it place
Yes my rake is stuck with the door open.
Hi, I would like to know if your problem fixed or not. I am having the same issue now, the door did not close and the rack is stuck.
Thanks for the answer
I have the same issue! What should i do
same issue for me the door stays open
mine too:( is there not a release button for the rake as the door will not close and the rake is pinned up top and not allowing the door to shut, or the rake to finish….ugh!
so is mine and I just got it unpacked today.
Same with ours 🙁 can’t figure it out
I’m unable to connect my device to the app. I turn it on by pressing the leftmost button, then I press and hold the 2 leftmost buttons. Rather than entering pairing mode with the blinking blue indicator light, the device just turns off. Has anyone else experienced this problem?
me too! anyone have a solution?
Mine says it is on standby. Color is blue but it won’t scoop. Have done reset several times. Again like most this unit is way too expensive to work for only a few months I sent an email previously with no response. Can someone please help!
Mines doing the same!
Did you ever get that figured out??? Mine is doing the same!!! Thank you
I have the same problem. My power button will not shut the device off. Have to reset to have litter cleaned. I have emaile 3 X. Also called. Mine isn’t even a month old. Even put request in on app. All I hear is crickets
Mine is 3 month old and the door didn’t close and the rack arm is stuck up against the door.
Can’t find a manual release
Nothing touched the door because all the cats were in the room with me.
I’m so unhappy right now
Note it won’t let me post
Mine does the same thing!! I’m trying to fix it but after it resets and works a few times it happens again
Me as well.
Also same here and I would return but 78 days old. Who has been able to find a number for Kung fu pets? I need it!
Same thing is happening to me. No response from Kung Fu.
Mine keeps beeping and red light blinking. Any ideas?
Mine keeps turing off, once a day?? No instructions on setting a timer, if there is one..
Really annoying, any help would be appreciated. Mine is the vetsion without the app.
The UV light is not coming on after it cleans. It used to and now it doesn’t. Any ideas?
My litter box rake assembly won’t stay up in the top under collection area. It keeps falling down. What can I do?
Just received mine 4 and a half hours ago and the rake is stuck cuz it started scooping without the door closing – now it’s jammed on the lid at the top! and it’s red light – waiting to hear from customer support
mine just did the same.. tried resetting but just makes noises and does not move red light stays on .. let me know what the fix is if you get a reply
Did you ever get an answer? Same thing happened to mine and I just got it!
Have you got am answer because mine is doing the same.
Please help
Good luck on that. they want me to pay for help. I paid too much for this thing to have to pay for support.
Seems that my cat like to urinate on the side. I am finding that their urine is on the bottom under the litter box and also collects urine into the step tray. How do I fix this.
I’m having the same issue. I contacted customer support and they told me to TAPE OVER IT! 💀 I just installed some flex seal waterproof tape on it, so I’m anxious to see if that fixes the issue.
Hi Kylie,
Just a quick question….how did your box work out with the flex seal tape and whereabout did u put the tape? Was it on the back wall? and if so, are u able to get the tray out with the tape being there. I have 2 boxes and they are both doing the same thing, so annoying!!! The protective plastic that was inside the tray had come away and was collecting dirty litter under it so I removed it, I wonder if that is what is causing the problem.
Thanks so much
My pet litter isn’t scooping automatically anymore. I have unplugged it and did a factory reset. I am at a loss. This unit was expensive for it to stop working in 4 months. Please help me figure this out. Thank you.
Mine just started not working either.
have you had a reply yet
Mine quit after 4 days. Back to Litter Robot.