Xiaomi’s modern gadgets have long since ceased to be just smartphones or routers, becoming full-fledged assistants that automate even household trifles such as garbage removal. A smart bucket with automatic packet sealing and deodorization becomes the central element of a clean kitchen, saving the owner from contact with unpleasant odors and contents.
However, to make the device work properly, you need to properly initial setup and calibrate the sensors that control the sealing mechanism. In this article, we will discuss in detail the process of preparing the Xiaomi Townew T1 or Xiaomi Townew T1S for work, consider the intricacies of connecting to the Mijia ecosystem and answer frequent maintenance questions.
It's important to understand that despite the apparent simplicity, this gadget requires careful consideration of the choice of consumables and regular cleaning of the heating element. The use of original thermoribbon packs is critical to the operation of the automatic seal function. Incorrect operation can lead to rapid failure of the heating strip or clogging of the pull mechanism.
Unpacking and Preparing the Device for First Launch
Once you remove the Xiaomi Townew from the box, you will find the bucket body itself, the inner ring holder, the charger (usually a docking station or micro-USB/USB-C cable depending on the model) and the starter packet. The first thing you need to do is install the inner ring in the case, combining the guides to the characteristic click.
Notice the top cover, which is where the heating element and the pull mechanism are located. When you first look, make sure that the heating strip doesn't have a protective film that you often forget to remove when you assemble it in the factory, and that the presence of foreign objects in the heat sealing area can cause you to overheat.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to touch the heating element immediately after the device is running. 150-200 degrees that can cause a burn.
Then you have to put a ring with a packet on, and unlike regular buckets, here the package is pulled in a specific way: the edges of the package must be carefully straightened along the outer side of the ring, and the thermoribbon tongue (if it is on the starting set) will pass through the slot in the mechanism. The Townew mechanism will tighten the package itself when it is first turned on, if the tape is properly filled.
☑️ Initial preparation of the bucket
Connect to the Mi Home app and set up Wi-Fi
To fully use all the features, including fullness tracking and deodorization mode management, you need to pair with your smartphone. Download the Mi Home app (or Xiaomi Home) and log in to your account. Make sure your phone is Bluetooth enabled and geolocation is a must-have for finding new devices on your local network.
Click the add-on button in the top right corner of the app. Usually, Xiaomi Townew is automatically determined in the pop-up window if the bucket is on and nearby. If the automatic search fails, select the category "Household appliances" or "Kitchen" and find the model manually (Townew T1 or T1S). During the pairing process, you will be asked to choose a Wi-Fi network.
Important: the device only supports 2.4 GHz. If your router is broadcasting a single network (Dual Band) or only 5 GHz, the connection may not occur, in which case temporarily divide the networks in the router settings or create a guest network 2.4 GHz.
- 📱 Make sure that the Mi Home app has all the necessary permissions to access the local network.
- 📶 The bucket should be in the zone of confident reception of the Wi-Fi signal, since the metal case can shield the signal.
- 🔋 Before setting up, make sure that the battery is charged at least on 20-30%.
Principle of operation and replacement of consumables
The main feature of Xiaomi Townew is the use of special packages with integrated thermoribbon T-Ring. When you press a button on the lid (or give a voice command), the bucket automatically seals the full package, cuts it off and lowers it into the lower compartment, while the new package is pulled up and fixed.
When the bucket reports the packets ending (blinking the indicator or notification in the application), you need to open the bottom cover, remove the block of sealed packets and insert a new block. The starter set usually contains 7 packets, after which you will need to purchase the original refill sets.
There is a common question about the possibility of using conventional bags. Technically, you can put garbage in a regular bag, but the auto-seal function will not work. Moreover, a regular package can get stuck in the pull mechanism, since it does not have a rigid thermoribe to grip the shaft.
Can I use regular packages without tape?
To replace the package block, follow the following steps:
- 🗑️ Open the bottom cover and remove the spent block (if there is one there).
- 📦 Insert a new packet block, making sure the thermoribbon looks up and freely enters the slot of the mechanism.
- 🔄 Close the cover and press the reset button or briefly press the control button so that the mechanism tightens the first packet.
Modes of operation and management through the application
Xiaomi Townew is not limited to a single button on the case. Mi Home offers access to fine-tuning device behavior. You can adjust the sensitivity of the occupancy sensor, which is especially useful if you throw out lightweight but bulky debris (for example, packaging from goods).
The app also has a deodorization function, and the bucket has a odor neutralizing module, and you can set the schedule of this module or manually turn it on before you throw out particularly odorous waste, and the indicator on the case will show the status of the work: constant glow, blinking or color change.
| Indicator | Status | User action |
|---|---|---|
| Green (constantly) | Normal work. | No action required |
| Yellow (blinks) | Packages are ending. | Prepare a new packet block |
| Red (flashing) | Error/Packages are over | Replace the packet block or eliminate the jamming |
| Blue (blinks) | Interconnection mode | Wi-Fi connection coming in |
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Flexible sensor sensitivity settings in the app avoid false positives for light debris, saving packets.
Maintenance, cleaning and remediation of clumps
Regular maintenance extends the life of a smart bucket. The main problem users face is getting the package stuck in the sealing mechanism. This can happen if the thermoribbon was improperly filled or if the package was of poor quality. To fix the jamming, you need to carefully remove the stuck plastic without damaging the heating element.
Cleaning the heating element should only be done when the device is turned off and cooled. Use a dry soft cloth or cotton swab lightly soaked with alcohol to remove the soak or sticky debris. Aggressive chemicals are prohibited, as they can damage the coating of the heater.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use sharp objects (scissors, knife) to clean the heating strip.Mechanical damage to the thin nichrome thread will lead to irreversible failure of the device.
Also, remember to wipe the inside of the bucket and the sensors. Dust and fat accumulated on the IR sensors can distort the readings of occupancy. For external cleaning of the case, a wet wipe is enough, since the Xiaomi Townew plastic has a coating that repels fingerprints.
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Rub the filling sensors with dry soft cloth once a month, and the fatty plaque from kitchen waste can reduce their sensitivity, and the bucket will stop signaling the full package in time.
Frequent questions and troubleshooting
Even when set up correctly, there may be situations that require user intervention, most often problems are related to battery drain, loss of connection with Wi-Fi or errors in the mechanism of the draw. If the bucket stops responding to buttons, try rebooting by holding the control button for 5-7 seconds.
If the device loses network frequently, check the stability of the signal at the installation site. Metal cabinets or thick walls can shield the signal. In this case, it will help to rearrange the router or install a repeater. It is also worth checking whether the firmware in the Mi Home application has been updated, since older versions of the software may contain bugs.