Dispenser Xiaomi: step-by-step guide with photos and secrets of masters

Xiaomi dispensers, popular smart devices for automatic water supply, animal feed or detergents, require cleaning or repair over time. However, disassembling such gadgets often raises questions: how not to damage the case, what tools to use and where the hidden latches are located? In this article, we will discuss the dismantling process in detail using the most common models (Viomi Water Dispenser, Mijia Pet Feeder, Xiaomi Smart Soap Dispenser), point out typical errors and give tips on reverse assembly.

It's important to understand that Xiaomi dispensers are designed to be designed for their intended purpose. For example, water dispensers typically have a sealed tank and pump, and automatic feeders have a motor-timer feed mechanism. We'll look at the universal steps applicable to all types, and we'll also point out the specifics for specific models. If you've never figured out this technique, start by preparing the workplace and tools, and that will save you time and nerves.

Preparation for disassembly: tools and security measures

Before you start disassembling, make sure you have everything you need. Most Xiaomi dispensers are built on plastic latches, but some models (like the Viomi Water Dispenser Pro) may have screwdrivers. Here is the minimum toolkit:

• 🔧 Plastic mediators (or guitar mediators) – to disconnect the body without scratches.
• 🔩 Screwdrivers: cross (PH0, PH1), flat (1.5–2 mm), and Torx T5/T6 for some models.
• 🧲 Magnetic mat or container – so as not to lose small parts (screws, springs).
• 📸 Smartphone – for photographing the disassembly stages (useful when reassembling).
• 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (70%+) - for cleaning contacts and boards, if required.

Also prepare the workplace: a table with good lighting, no carpeting (so as not to lose parts); if you disassemble the water dispenser, drain all the liquid and dry the tank beforehand; For feeders, remove the leftovers of the feed, which can get into the mechanism and make assembly difficult.

⚠️ Warning: Some Xiaomi models (e.g., Mijia Smart Pet Feeder) have lithium batteries in the remote or main unit. If you notice a bloating battery, don't disassemble the device yourself, contact the service center. The risk of fire if such batteries are damaged is extremely high!

Step 1: Removing the upper cover and accessing the insides

Most Xiaomi Dispensers have a two-piece body: the top cover (with buttons or a display) and the bottom (with a mechanism).

1. If it's a wireless model (like the Xiaomi Smart Soap Dispenser), remove the batteries.
2. Look around for screws. In Viomi models, they're often hidden under legs or stickers. Carefully tuck the sticker with a plastic mediator, and there might be a Torx T5 screw underneath.
3. If there are no screws, the body is held on the latches, insert the mediator into the gap between the top and bottom (usually on the side or back), and carefully guide along the perimeter, alternately flicking the mounts. Don't put too much effort into the plastic can crack!

Once you remove the lid, you'll see the control board, the wires, and (in the case of feeders) the feeding mechanism. Water dispensers often have a pump and a fluid level sensor under the lid, and take a picture of the location of the wires and connectors before you disconnect them.

Step 2: Dismantling the feeding mechanism (for feeders and liquid dispensers)

In the Xiaomi Mijia automatic feeders and soap dispensers, the main operating unit is a worm-drive motor or pump.

• 🔄 For feeders: Remove the feed tray (usually it comes up). Underneath it, you'll find the gears and the motor. Unplug the motor power connector from the board.
• 💧 For water/soap dispensers: Unscrew the pump (usually secured with 2-3 screws). Be careful with silicone tubes, they can be brittle.

In Viomi Water Dispenser models, the pump is often integrated with the flow sensor. If you disassemble the device due to a leak, check the integrity of the pump's sealing rings - their wear is a common cause of the problem. Use vinegar solution (1:1 with water) to clean the pump, but don't immerse it completely - just rinse the impeller.

⚠️ Warning: In the Mijia feeders, check the micro-switch (located next to the gear) after removing the motor. If it's stuck or oxidized, the device may not respond to commands. Clean the contacts with alcohol, but do not use abrasive materials!

Step 3: Disassembly of the electronic part (boards, sensors, display)

The electronic unit is the most delicate part of the dispenser.

• 📱 Control board (with microcontroller, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth- module).
• 🔋 Battery (in wireless models)
• 📊 Sensors (liquid, motion, weight level).
• 🖥️ Display (in models with a screen, for example, Viomi Water Dispenser Pro).

To dismantle the fee:

1. Disconnect all the connectors (pre-photo their location) The connectors can be fixed by latches, gently tuck them into a plastic blade.
2. If the board is fixed with screws, unscrew them. Carefully examine the screws - sometimes they are of different lengths (for example, in Mijia Pet Feeder).
3. To remove the display, heat it with a hair dryer (temperature no higher than 60°C) to soften the glue. Put a plastic card on the screen starting at the corner.

When cleaning the board, avoid aggressive solvents. Use isopropyl alcohol and a soft brush. If you see darkened areas or swollen capacitors on the board, this is a sign of overheating or short circuit, in which case you will need a multimeter diagnosis or a replacement board.

💡

If the dispenser doesn't turn on after assembly, check the fuse on the board (usually located next to the power connector) and in Viomi models it can burn out when the voltage surges.

Step 4: Cleaning and Maintenance of Internal Components

Once dismantled, it's time to get the device in order.

• 🧼 Scale removal (in water dispensers): Use a solution of citric acid (50 g per 1 liter of water). Pour it into the tank and turn the device on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
• 🧹 Clean the feeding mechanism: in feeders, remove the residues of the feed from the screw and gears. Use silicone lubricant (not oil!) for lubrication.
• 🔌 Contact cleaning: wipe the board connectors with alcohol. The oxidized contacts can be cleaned neatly with a lasticle.

Pay special attention to the rubber sealing rings in water dispensers. Over time, they lose their elasticity and start to leak water. If the rings crack, replace them with new ones (you can match the diameter in plumbing stores). To prolong their life, grease them with food silicone.

Step 5: Reverse Assembly and Testing

The dispenser assembly should be in reverse order.

1. Make sure all seals and gaskets are in place. Viomi models often forget about the rubber ring of the pump, which leads to leakage.
2. Connect the connectors to the board according to the photos. Notice the polarity (for example, the motor connector may be marked + and -).
3. Secure the board with screws. Don't drag them over, it could damage the board's tracks.
4. When you put the lid on, press it evenly so that the latches fall into place. If the lid doesn't close, check if the wires or sensors are interfering.

After assembly, connect the device to the network and run a test:

• 🚰 For water dispensers: check for pressure and no leakage.
• 🐶 For feeders: run a test portion of feed.
• 📶 For smart models: connect to the Mi Home app and check for response to commands.

⚠️ Warning: If the device is buzzing after assembly but not working, you probably have confused the polarity of the motor or you haven't fully inserted the gear in the feeder. Take it apart again and check the mechanical part.

💡

The most common mistake in assembly is the wrong installation of the sealing rings, and even a slight skew can cause a leak or a decrease in pump performance.

Typical malfunctions and how to avoid them during disassembly

Many of the problems with Xiaomi dispensers are due to careless disassembly or non-compliance, and here are the most common malfunctions and ways to prevent them:

If you are facing a problem that is not in the table, check:

• 🔍 Condition of wires - whether there are fractures or bare sections.
• 🔋 Battery (in wireless models) — is it swelling?
• 📲 Firmware – sometimes malfunctions are due to software errors (update via Mi Home).

FAQ: Frequent questions about dismantling Xiaomi dispensers