Xiaomi water dispensers (including Mi Water Purifier and Viomi models) have become a popular solution for filtering and supplying clean water in homes and offices. However, many users face the need to open the device case - whether to replace the filter, clean the internals or troubleshoot. Unlike standard coolers, Xiaomi dispensers have a specific design with latches, screws and sometimes hidden mounts, which makes the process of disassembly non-trivial.
In this article, we will look at step-by-step instructions for different models, list the necessary tools, and point out the critical points that can lead to failure if you carelessly handle. We will pay special attention to safety: working with plumbing and electrical components requires accuracy. If your dispenser is still under warranty, weigh the risks, since self-disassembly can void warranty obligations.
Before you start, determine the exact model of your device. The most common series: Mi Water Purifier 1/1A/1C, Viomi Water Purifier V1/V2, as well as compact desktop models like Xiaomi Deerma Mini. The design of the cases is different, so there is no universal way. Next we will look at the general principles and nuances for each line.
Preparation for disassembly: tools and precautions
Before you open a Xiaomi dispenser, make sure you have everything you need. Here is the minimum toolkit you'll need 90% of the time:
- π§ Screwdriver cross (usually) PH2) β corpus.
- π§ Flat screwdriver or mediator - to separate the latches.
- π§² Magnetic screw holder β so as not to lose small details.
- π§΄ Silicone lubricant - useful for processing sealing rings after assembly.
- πΈ Smartphone for photography β fix the location of wires and parts before dismantling.
Also prepare the working space:
- πͺ Paint a soft cloth or towel so as not to scratch the body.
- π§ Turn off the water supply and drain the residues from the system (via a tap or drain function if there is one).
- β‘ Remove the plug from the socket β even if the dispenser is off, the capacitors can retain charge.
β οΈ Warning: If your dispenser is connected to the water supply directly (not through the tank), close the water supply valve and use pressure to open the tap on the device, otherwise, during disassembly, the hoses may rupture under pressure.
Electronically controlled models (such as the Viomi V2) may require discharge of the capacitors. If you are not sure of your electronics skills, you should trust the disassembly center. Internal boards are sensitive to static electricity - use an antistatic bracelet or regularly touch grounded metal surfaces.
Dispenser Xiaomi Dispenser Disassembly Scheme: Step-by-step algorithm
Despite the differences in design, most Xiaomi dispensers are disassembled in a similar way, and here is a general-purpose algorithm that will work for most models.
- Remove the top cover (if any) and it is usually attached to 2-4 screws at the back or sides, and additional screws may be hidden under the cover.
- Unplug the drop tray (if any) and it often holds on the latches, pull it on yourself with uniform force.
- In Mi Water Purifier 1C models, screws can be hidden under stickers or rubber plugs.
- Disconnect the latches. Use a flat screwdriver or a special tool for plastic clips. Start at the top of the case, gradually moving down.
- Remove the front panel. Be careful, it can be connected to the main part with plumes (in models with a display).
- Turn off the power connectors and the sensors, remember or photograph their location.
After that, you will have access to the internal components: filters, pump, electronic boards and water hoses. To replace the filter, you usually do not need a complete disassembly - just remove the protective cover of the filter unit (it can be mounted on a bayonet lock or thread).
Turned off the water supply and drained the residues |Switched off the power from the socket |Prepared tools and the workplace |Photographed the initial state of the connectors |Prequested the presence of hidden screws under the stickers-->
Important: In some models (like the Viomi V1), the body consists of two halves, held together not only by screws, but also by ultrasonic welding, and trying to separate such parts by force will lead to cracks. If you are not sure that the body is collapsible, check the documentation or video reviews of the particular model.
Features of disassembling popular models
Each Xiaomi Dispenser series has unique design solutions, and the following table shows the key differences for the most common models:
| Model | Type of hull attachment | Difficulties in disassembling | Additional nuances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Water Purifier 1/1A | 4 screws at the rear + 6 latches around the perimeter | Fragile plastic clips, easily break | The filter is attached to the thread, you need a key to remove |
| Viomi Water Purifier V1 | Screws under stickers + ultrasonic welding | Body indissoluble without damage | To replace the filter, remove the top cover. |
| Mi Water Purifier 1C | 6 screws (2 hidden under rubber legs) | Difficult access to the pump | Reconnection of hoses is required during assembly |
| Deerma Mini | Screwless fastening (latch only) | Easy to disassemble, but fragile plastic | The filter is replaced without disassembling the body. |
For the Viomi V2 touch screen model, pay special attention to the screen plume. It is attached to the motherboard with a lock connector β don't pull the plume, but gently lift the lock with a flat screwdriver. This model also has a leak sensor that can fire if you build it wrong. After changing the filter or repairing, be sure to calibrate the sensor through the settings menu.
Mi Water Purifier 1C dispensers often have problems with the pressure pump. If the device does not pump water, but the filter is new, check the contacts of the pump and the integrity of the membrane. To access the pump, you will have to remove the lower part of the housing where the water connections are located. Be prepared for the fact that after disassembly, you may need to seal the threaded joints with fume tape.
What to do if the screws do not twist?
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even with careful disassembly, users often make mistakes that lead to breakdowns, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:
- π The plume break, especially for models with a display, always fix the plumes with tape to the body before they are removed, so that they do not hang around.
- π§ Leaks after assembly, because of the wrong installation of the sealing rings or insufficient tightening of threaded joints. Use silicone grease for the rings.
- β‘ Short circuit. It occurs when moisture hits the boards. Make sure all components are dry before assembly.
- π§ Loss of screws. Small screws are easily lost in carpeting. Use a magnetic pallet or compartment container.
β οΈ Note: In Xiaomi dispensers with water heating function (Viomi) V2 Hot) inside the case is a thermostat and a heating element. When disassembling, do not touch the contacts of the heater - residual voltage can persist even after disconnecting from the mains. For complete safety, wait for the device to cool down (at least 30 minutes after last use).
Another common problem is that the sensors fail to calibrate after the filter is changed. If the dispenser produces an E1 or E2 error, reset via the settings menu (usually by pressing the power button for 10 seconds). Some models require manually specifying the type of filter installed in the service menu. The instructions for your model can be found in the documentation or on the forums (for example, 4PDA).
π‘
If the dispenser doesn't turn on after assembly, check the fuse on the power board. In Mi Water Purifier 1A models, it is located next to the power connector and can burn out when voltage surges. Replace it with a fuse with the same nominal value (usually 250V/2A).
Replace the filter without complete disassembly
In most cases, the filter replacement doesn't require disassembling the entire body, and the manufacturer has made it easier to access the filter element.
- Shut off the water supply and drain the residues from the system through the tap.
- On the back or side panel, look for a filter cover (usually marked with a filter icon or FILTER).
- Depending on the model: For Mi Water Purifier 1/1A: turn the lid counterclockwise (bayonet lock). For Viomi V1/V2: press the lock and pull the lid on yourself. For Deerma Mini: the lid is mounted on the latches - put it in a screwdriver.
Viomi V2
Set a new filter by combining the labels on the body, close the lid and check the leakproofness.
After you change the filter, flush the system.
- Connect the water and turn on the dispenser.
- Pour the first 2-3 liters of water (it may be black or smelly, which is normal for new filters).
- If the model supports automatic flushing (e.g. Mi Water Purifier 1C), run it through the menu.
For models with a water heating function (Viomi V2 Hot), be sure to clean the heating element of scale. Use special means (for example, Antinakipin) or citric acid (50 g per 1 liter of water). Pour the solution into a container, turn on the heating element for 30-40 minutes, then rinse the system with clean water.
If your dispenser is equipped with a UV lamp (e.g. Mi Water Purifier 1C), check its performance. Over time, the effectiveness of UV radiation decreases. The lamp should be replaced every 6-12 months depending on the intensity of use. When replaced, do not touch the glass bulb with your bare hands - fatty traces shorten the life of the lamp.
β οΈ Note: In reverse osmosis models (e.g. Viomi) RO) The membrane requires special treatment. Don't let it dry out, because if the membrane is dry, it needs to be replaced. Also, watch for pressure in the system: at low pressure (less than 2 bar), the filtration quality deteriorates dramatically.
Assembly of the dispenser and check of working capacity
The assembly of the device should be in reverse order of disassembly, and here are the key points to pay attention to:
- Make sure all O-rings are in place and not damaged.
- Connect the plumes and connectors while observing polarity. In models with a display, check that the plume is not twisted.
- Twisting all the screws, but don't pull them over -- plastic can crack. Optimal effort: the screw should go tight, but without creaking.
- Connect the water and check the leaks. For the first 5-10 minutes, watch the device for leaks.
- Turn the dispenser on and run a test run, check all the functions: cold/hot water, display, touch buttons.
If there are errors after assembly (e.g. E3 leakage, E4 pump problem), follow these steps:
- Turn off the device and check that all connectors are connected correctly.
- Make sure the filter is mounted to the stop and the cover is tightly closed.
- Reset the error through the service menu (usually by holding the power button or a combination of buttons).
For models with a Wi-Fi module (Viomi V2), you may need to reconnect to the network after assembly. Go to the Mi Home app, remove the device and add it again. If the dispenser is not on the network, check that the Wi-Fi module is connected to the board (in some cases it is attached with a separate train).
π‘
After assembly, be sure to calibrate the sensors (if the model provides) and flush the system. This will avoid false alarms and ensure the correct operation of the device.