A wet/dry floor washer combines vacuum suction, a liquid delivery system, and rotating brushes, so it has more maintenance needs than a normal vacuum. Common failures include batteries, brushroll motors, pump/valve issues, and sensor or charging-contact problems.
Repair is worthwhile when the unit is relatively new and the issue is a single module (battery, brushroll, dock/charger) under the threshold, especially if the rest of the system is clean and free of odors. Replacement is often smarter when liquid pathways are clogged or leaking internally, the unit smells despite thorough cleaning, or multiple sensors fail-because hygiene and reliability can deteriorate quickly.
Frequent use in kitchens (grease) and with pet messes accelerates buildup; if you can't keep it consistently clean, replacing may reduce frustration and improve floor outcomes.