Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners with wet cleaning function (for example, Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, Dreame) D9 viomi V3) However, many users have difficulty in first removing the tank: the latches are not obvious, and the instructions in Chinese are not always clear. This article will help you understand how to safely open the water tank without damaging the fastening mechanism or sealing gums.
We will look at the design of the tanks in detail, show hidden locks that are often overlooked, and give recommendations for cleaning, and pay special attention to common mistakes – for example, why the tank can jam after washing or how to avoid leaks when assembly is wrong. If your vacuum cleaner makes a mistake E5 (water supply system, tank inspection is the first step to solving the problem.
Water tank design: what’s inside and how it works
The water tank in Xiaomi’s robot vacuum cleaners is not just a capacity, but a complex module with several key elements:
- 🔹 The main case is a plastic container with a volume of 200 to 300 ml (depending on the model), often transparent or translucent, with water level markings.
- 🔹 Water supply valve - mechanical or electronic (in premium models) regulates the flow of liquid to the napkin.
- 🔹 The sealing gum is a silicone ring around the perimeter of the lid that prevents leakage, and over time it can deform or become covered with plaque.
- 🔹 A rough filter is a small net inside the tank that traps dust particles and pile. Requires washing every 1-2 weeks.
- 🔹 Water level sensor – in models with automatic dosage (for example, DreameBot) D10 Plus. Responsible for type errors E3 or E6.
It is important to understand that in budget models (for example, Mi Robot Mop 2 Lite), the tank is often combined with a dust collector, and in flagships (such as Xiaomi Mijia). 1T) It's a separate removable module. It's the extraction algorithm that depends on it.
In some vacuum cleaners (for example, DreameBot) Z10 Pro) the tank is heated with water, in which case an additional heating element is installed inside, and these models require special care: you can not use aggressive detergents or boiling water to clean.
Step-by-step: how to open a water tank
The algorithm for extracting the tank depends on the model, but the general scheme looks like this:
Turn off the robot vacuum cleaner and get it out of the docking station
Make sure there is no water in the tank (leak the residues)
Prepare a dry cloth in case of leaks
Check if the tank is blocking the dust collector (in combined models)-->
Now, let's move on to the process itself. Let's look at two options: for models with a top cover (like the Mi Robot Mop 2 Pro) and for models with a side mount (like the Viomi). V3).
Option 1: Reservoir with top cover (Mi Robot, Dreame)
- Put the vacuum cleaner on a flat surface upside down (it is more convenient to get the tank).
- Find two latches on the side of the tank lid, usually marked with arrows or small protrusions. D9 The latches are hidden under rubber inserts.
- Press the latches simultaneously inward (to the center of the tank) and pull the lid upwards. If you don't, try swaying it left-right.
- After removing the lid, remove the filter (if any) and rinse it under running water.
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If the latches don't press, check if the mechanism is blocked because of the accumulated dirt, soak the cotton swab with alcohol and clean the slots around the latches.
Option 2: Side mount (Viomi, some Xiaomi models)
- The tank in such models is fixed by one central latch on the back wall of the tank.
- Press the latch upwards (towards the vacuum cleaner cover) and pull the tank over yourself. in Viomi V3 You need to hold the spring mechanism from below.
- If the tank is “jammed”, do not use force – check whether the water supply tube is caught by the internal parts.
In models with an electronic valve (for example, DreameBot) L10) Before removing the tank, you need to put the vacuum cleaner into sleep mode, otherwise the system will block the mechanism.
Typical Problems and How to Avoid Them
Even with the tank handled carefully, users often face difficulties.
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The tank won't open, the latches won't press. | Mud accumulation in the mechanism or deformation of plastic | Clean the grooves with alcohol, lubricate with silicone lubricant |
| Water leaks after assembly | The sealing gum is damaged or the filter is incorrectly installed | Check the integrity of the rubber band, reinstall the filter |
| Mistake. E5 aftertank | Incorrect connection of the water supply tube or sensor | Reboot the vacuum cleaner, check the connections |
| Tank lid wobbles after closing | Wear of fixers or hitting foreign objects | Replace latches or clean the mechanism |
What to do if the latch breaks?
One of the most insidious problems is the dried residue of detergent in the water supply valve, which can block the opening mechanism of the lid.
- Immerse the tank in warm water for 10-15 minutes.
- Use a toothpick to gently remove plaque from the grooves.
- Apply silicone lubricant (not technical oil!) to the seal.
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Never use abrasives (such as soda powder) to clean the tank, which damage the seal and plastic, and the best option is liquid soap or specialized tools for robot vacuum cleaners (such as Xiaomi Mi Home Cleaning Solution).
Cleaning the tank: a step-by-step guide
Washing the tank is as important as getting it out properly, and not cleaning it properly causes bacteria to multiply, smell bad, and break the valve.
- Pour the remaining water and rinse the tank with warm water (not hot!).
- Use a soft sponge or bottle brush to clean the inner walls. Pay attention to the indentations around the valve.
- For disinfection, pour a solution of vinegar (1: 1 with water) into the tank for 5-10 minutes, then thoroughly rinse.
- Dry the tank upside down for at least 2 hours. E3 and E6.
Pay special attention to the rough filter (if you have one in your model).
- 🧼 Wash under running water once a week.
- 🔄 Change every 3-6 months (depending on the intensity of use).
- 🚫 Never brush with hard bristles – it will damage the microgrid.
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If after cleaning the tank comes an unpleasant smell, place inside a bag of soda for 12 hours - this will help neutralize the smell without aggressive chemistry.
In models with electronic water supply control (for example, DreameBot) W10) After cleaning the tank, you need to calibrate the sensor:
- Put the tank back in place.
- Start the vacuum cleaner and go to Settings → Sizing → Resetting the water sensor.
- Wait until the process is complete (the robot will beep).
Frequent User Errors and Their Consequences
Even experienced Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners sometimes make mistakes when handling a water tank.
⚠️ Warning: If the vacuum cleaner stopped spraying water after cleaning the tank, check if the supply tube is closed. V3 It often shifts when it is unscrupulously extracted.
- 🚫 The use of boiling water - deforms plastic and seals, leads to leaks.
- 🚫 Drying the tank in assembled form - moisture inside the valve causes corrosion of contacts (in models with electronic control).
- 🚫 Application WD-40 And for latches, it's a technical spray, and it breaks down silicone seals.
- 🚫 Storage of a tank with water - leads to the formation of mold and lime plaque.
One of the most common mistakes is to install the filter incorrectly, and if you flip it over or move it, the vacuum cleaner will either not supply water or will give you an error. E4 (In the Dreame models, the system is blocked. D10 Plus filter has an asymmetrical shape - on its body there is a label TOP, should look up.
Another problem is that the water level sensor is damaged during cleaning, in electronically controlled tanks like Xiaomi Mijia. 1T) The sensor is a thin plastic tube with a float, and if you bend it or pour it with water on top, the vacuum cleaner will start to make false overflow errors.
Comparison of tanks in popular models Xiaomi
The design of the water tank varies depending on the model of the robot vacuum cleaner. Below is a comparative table for the most popular devices:
| Model | Type of attachment | Volume of tank | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro | Top cover with two latches | 240 ml | Combined with a dust collector, electronic valve |
| Dreame D9 | Top cover with hidden latches | 270 ml | Filter of rough cleaning, heating water |
| Viomi V3 | Side attachment with central latch | 300 ml | Separate tank, mechanical valve |
| DreameBot W10 | Magnetic fixation + snap | 200 ml | Automatic water dosage, pollution sensor |
| Xiaomi Mijia 1T | Top cap with locking | 350 ml | Double filter compatible with detergents |
In premium models (for example, DreameBot) X30) The tank is equipped with a self-cleaning system, and after cleaning, the robot automatically flushes the tank with clean water, but even in such vacuum cleaners, it is recommended to carry out manual cleaning once a month, since the system does not remove lime plaque.
If you are planning to buy a Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner and the ease of tank maintenance is important, pay attention to models with magnetic mounting (for example, DreameBot). W10). They have no problems with latches, but they are more expensive.
When to Replace the Reservoir and Where to Buy Parts
The water tank is a consumable, and it has to be changed sooner or later, and the signs are that the tank has run out of resources.
- 🔴 Cracks or chips on the body (even small ones can lead to leaks).
- 🔴 The sealing gum has lost elasticity and does not hold the shape.
- 🔴 The water supply valve jams or lets the liquid in the off state.
- 🔴 Inside the tank appeared a persistent smell that is not removed by cleaning.
The average life of the tank is 2-3 years with regular maintenance. D9) The tank fails faster due to lime plaque on the heating element.
Where to buy a replacement:
- 🛒 Xiaomi’s Official Store – Original Parts, but Limited Assortment.
- 🛒 AliExpress is a wide range of options, but it's a risk of getting faked%.
- 🛒 Service centers – often sell used tanks after repair (cheaper, but without warranty).
- 🛒 Yandex Market / Ozon – convenient for Russia, but prices are higher than on AliExpress.
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When buying parts, check the compatibility of the item. For example, the tank for the Mi Robot Mop 2 Pro is not suitable for the Mi Robot Mop 2 Lite, despite the similar design.
The cost of a new tank varies from 800 to 2500 rubles depending on the model. In some cases it is cheaper to buy a used vacuum cleaner to replace it, for example, a tank for Viomi. V3 It costs almost a third of the price of a new device.
If you are not sure about the choice, contact the Xiaomi service center with a photo of your tank - they will find a compatible spare part. In Moscow and St. Petersburg, official partners work, where you can order a part with a warranty.