Xiaomiβs liquid soap dispensers are one of the most popular solutions in the brandβs smart home lineup. These compact devices not only save detergent, but also make hand washing more hygienic by eliminating contact with the surface of the vial. However, many users are asking: how to properly refill the dispenser so that it works without failure, what soap is best for them, and what to do if the device stops dispensing a portion?
In this article, we will discuss the refueling process for different models of Xiaomi dispenser (including Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser and Viomi Smart Soap Dispenser), talk about compatibility with different types of liquids, and give tips for the care and elimination of typical problems. If you just bought a device or encountered difficulties in operation, here you will find all the answers to all the questions.
Which Xiaomi dispenser models support liquid soap filling?
Xiaomi has several automatic dispensers, but not all of them are universal, with the main differences being the type of detergent, the volume of the tank and the way it is served.
- πΉ The Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser is a classic 300 ml model that supports liquid soap, shower gel and antiseptic, and is equipped with an infrared sensor and is battery-powered. AA.
Important: Not all dispensers are compatible with thick cream soaps or shampoos. For example, Mijia Smart Soap Dispenser can clog if you use a product with particles (scrabs) or high viscosity. Before filling, check the consistency of the soap - it should flow easily from the vial when rolled over.
Preparation of the dispenser for the first refueling
Before you pour liquid soap, the device must be properly prepared, which will help to avoid leaks and ensure the stable operation of the sensor.
- Unpack and inspect the dispenser. Make sure there are no cracks on the casing and the tank lid is tightly closed. The kit must include batteries (if there are none, buy an AA or AAA depending on the model).
- Set the batteries. Open the compartment (usually on the bottom panel) and insert the batteries, observing the polarity, and after installation, the dispenser should emit an audible signal or flash an indicator.
- Wash the tank. the device is new, it is recommended to rinse the container with warm water to remove possible dust particles or industrial lubricant.
- Test the sensor. Put your hand up to the sensor at a distance of 5 to 10 cm, and if the dispenser makes a sound or flashes, it's ready to refuel.
β οΈ Warning: Some models (like the Viomi) have a protective film on the sensor, so if the device doesn't respond to the hand, check for it and remove it.
βοΈ Checklist before refueling
Step-by-step instructions: how to fill the dispenser with liquid soap
The refueling process depends on the dispenser design, and below is a universal instruction that is suitable for most Xiaomi models:
1. Open the tank.
In Mijia and Viomi models, the tank lid is usually on top, press it and turn counterclockwise (or pull it up if it's on the latches). In some devices, the tank is removable, and you need to take it out of the case carefully.
2.Pour the liquid soap
Use a funnel (if included) or pour carefully so as not to spill the product on the electronic components. Fill the tank by no more than 80%, this will prevent overflows when heating the liquid. For models with foam (Youpin Foam Dispenser), first pour the water, then add soap in a ratio of 3:1.
3. Remove the air bubbles
After refueling, tilt the dispenser slightly in different directions so that the air bubbles rise up, which is important for the pump to work smoothly.
4. Close the lid and test it out.
Tightly twist or snap the lid. Put your hand in the sensor, the device should give you a soap. If that doesn't happen, check:
- π Proper installation of batteries.
- π§ Liquid level (possibly soap doesn't reach the pump).
- πΆ Sensor sensitivity (in the settings of the Mi Home application you can adjust the response distance).
Critical: If the dispenser delivers too much or too little soap, adjust the portion size in the Mi Home app (Settings β Dosage volume). In mechanical models, the adjustment is done by a screw on the bottom panel.
π‘
If the soap is thick, dilute it with water in a 1:1 ratio - this will prolong the life of the pump and prevent blockages.
What liquid soap is suitable for Xiaomi dispensers?
Not all detergents work equally well with automatic dispensers.
| Type of soap | Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid soap (classic) | β Yes. | Best option. Choose a product without abrasive particles. |
| shower gel | β Yes (probationally) | It's good if the density is not above average. |
| Antiseptic (alcohol) | β Yes. | Use only colorless compounds without additives (e.g. Sanitelle). |
| Cream soap | β No. | Too thick, it'll quickly clog the mechanism. |
| Shampoo | β οΈ Partially. | Only liquid shampoos without silicones, requiring frequent flushing. |
π Tip: To extend the life of the dispenser, use products marked "for automatic dispensers" (for example, Dove or Palmolive in special bottles). Avoid oil-based soaps with perfumes - they can leave sticky sludge on parts.
What happens if you use the wrong soap?
Typical gas station errors and how to avoid them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to breakdowns or unstable operation of the dispenser.
β οΈ Warning: If the dispenser starts to leak after refueling, immediately remove the batteries and rinse the tank!
- π« Soap overflows. Filling the tank under the neck causes fluid to leak out through the vents, especially when the temperature changes.
- π« Use of aggressive agents: Soaps high in alcohol (over 70%) or chlorine can damage seals.
- π« Ignoring flushing: If you don't rinse the tank before filling the new soap, the residues of the old remedy may react (e.g., to form flakes).
- π« The dispenser is incorrectly positioned. The device must be vertically positioned. Inclination over 15.Β° pump-off.
π οΈ How to Remove the Effects of Errors:
- If the soap leaks - disassemble the dispenser, wash all the parts under running water and dry for at least 12 hours.
- If the pump is clogged, use a syringe with warm water to flush the tubes (do not use needles!).
- If the sensor does not respond, check the batteries and clean the sensor with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
How to take care of the dispenser so that it lasts longer?
The average life of Xiaomi automatic dispenser is 2-3 years when used correctly. To avoid breakdowns, follow these recommendations:
- π§Ό Rinse the tank every 2 weeks. Disassemble the dispenser, rinse the container and pump with warm water. Use a solution of vinegar (1:10) or hydrogen peroxide to disinfect.
- π Change batteries every 3-4 months. Even if the dispenser works, discharged cells can give unstable voltage, which harms electronics.
- π‘οΈ Avoid extreme temperatures. Do not place the device near heaters or in direct sunlight, which causes soap to evaporate and precipitate.
- π Use filtered water to dilute. Hard water accelerates the buildup of the pump's plaque.
π Useful life hack: If the dispenser starts to "sneeze" (give soap jerks), remove the pump and soak it for 1 hour in a solution of citric acid (1 tsp. per 200 ml of water.
π‘
Regular washing of the pump with warm water (without detergents!) prolongs its life by 2-3 times.
What to do if the dispenser stops working?
If the device does not respond to the hand or gives an error, first identify the symptom:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Not responding to the sensor | Batteries are dead, sensors are contaminated. | Replace batteries, wipe the sensor with alcohol |
| It's not giving out enough soap. | The pump clogged, low fluid levels. | Rinse the pump, refill the soap. |
| Fluid leaking. | Overflow, seal damaged. | Reduce the amount of gas, check the cover |
| Blinks red. | Critical error of pump or electronics | Reset the settings (reset button at the bottom) |
If the dispenser still doesn't work:
- Try resetting to factory settings (press the power button for 10 seconds).
- Update the firmware through the Mi Home app (relevant for models with Wi-Fi/Zigbee support).
- Contact Xiaomi Service Center β some breakdowns (for example, failure of the pump engine) require professional repair.