Xiaomi Dispensers are some of the most popular devices for home automation, but their refueling often raises questions among users. Installing a cartridge or choosing a liquid can lead to leaks, breakages or even cancellation of warranty. In this article, we will discuss all the stages of refueling for Viomi V3, Mijia Smart Dispenser and others, and also tell you what mistakes are most common for beginners.
Xiaomi dispensers are unique in their modular system: some models require original cartridges, others support self-refilling. We will discuss three key ways in detail: using branded consumables, refilling reusable containers and adapting third-party containers, and you will learn how to reset the fluid counter in the Mi Home application and what to do if the dispenser does not recognize the new cartridge.
What Xiaomi Dispensers Can Be Filled By Yourself
Not all Xiaomi devices support manual refilling, such as the Viomi V3 and Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser are designed for disposable chip cartridges, while the Xiaomi Youpin Smart Dispenser (YLYD01YL model) allows reusable containers.
| The dispenser model | Type of cartridge | Support for self-fuelling | Volume, ml |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viomi V3 | Disposable with a chip | ❌ No (requires original cartridges) | 300/500 |
| Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser | Disposable | ⚠️ Partially (possible flashing of the chip) | 250 |
| Xiaomi Youpin YLYD01YL | Reusable | ✅ Yes (any liquid) | 400 |
| Aqara Smart Dispenser | Replacement tank | ✅ Yes (with viscosity restrictions) | 350 |
If your model doesn’t support refueling, but you want to save money, you can buy a reusable chip cartridge (like Yoosee) or use a bypass adapter to trick the sensor, but this can lead to loss of warranty and errors in the application.
Before you start filling, check:
- 🔍 Liquid type: Xiaomi dispensers are optimized for soap, antiseptic or lotion with a viscosity of 100–500 mPa·s. shower gel or shampoo can clog the pump.
- 📦 Condition of seals: if the rubber rings on the cartridge cracked, the liquid will leak.
- 📱 Firmware version: Older versions of Mi Home (below 6.0.100) may not display fluid levels.
⚠️ Attention: Use of liquids with abrasive particles (scrabs) or alcohol concentrations above 70% will lead to corrosion of the internal parts of the pump%).
Step-by-step: how to fill the Xiaomi dispenser with the original cartridge
If your model only works with proprietary consumables (for example, Viomi V3), follow this algorithm:
- Remove the old cartridge: 🔄 Click on the lock button at the bottom of the dispenser (usually marked with an icon) 🔓). 📤 Pull the container up to the click. If the cartridge isn't taken out, check if it's jammed because of the fluid residue.
- Prepare a new cartridge: 🧼 Remove the protective film from the nozzle (do not touch the membrane with your hands!). 🔋 Make sure the chip at the bottom of the cartridge is clean (wipe with an alcohol napkin if necessary).
Set the cartridge up.
- 📥 Insert the container into the slots until the click is heard.
- 🔄 Close the lock (on some models you need to turn the cartridge counterclockwise).
Make sure the dispenser model supports refueling|Check the shelf life of the liquid|Clean the nozzle of an old cartridge|Connect the dispenser to the network (if required)-->
If the dispenser produces an E02 error (incompatible cartridge), try:
- 🔄 Remove and re-insert the container.
- 📱 Update the firmware through Mi Home.
- 🔧 Clean the contacts of the chip with a soft brush.