How to open a smart dispenser Xiaomi: full instructions

Owners of popular home automation gadgets, such as the Xiaomi Mijia Automatic Induction Hand Washer, often face the need to restock their disinfectant. A smart foam system is convenient and hygienic, but the device is designed to minimize user intervention. This creates certain difficulties when a standard factory tank runs out and a new one is too expensive or not available. Opening a disinfectant is the first step to saving and being able to use any compatible fluids.

There are two main scenarios where you need access inside: a scheduled re-opening of the container or an emergency cleaning of the nose that could have been clogged with a dried gel. The first is relatively safe, the second requires increased care to avoid damaging the fragile plastic latches. It is important to understand that the manufacturer did not expect frequent disassembly, so all the actions must be done smoothly, without sharp jerks and excessive effort.

In this article, we will discuss the algorithm of actions for different situations: you will learn how to safely remove the top cover, remove the cassette and what to do if the feed mechanism has stopped working correctly, compliance with the technology will extend the life of your device and avoid motor failure or leaks at the most inopportune time.

Workplace preparation and necessary tools

Before you start to manipulate the case, you need to organize a clean and well-lit space. A smart dispenser contains electronic components, and getting moisture or small debris inside can make them fail. Cover the table with paper towels or napkins to absorb possible drops of liquid that may remain in the tubes or on the valves.

The design of the device does not require complex tools, but the presence of certain items will make it easier.

• 🔧 Flat screwdriver or plastic blade to open the case (it is better to use plastic so as not to scratch the glossy surface).
• 🧤 Latex gloves to protect the skin from concentrated disinfectant.
• 🧻 Dry cotton-coated discs or microfibers for cleaning contacts and internal surfaces.
• 🔦 Lantern for inspection of internal state of mechanism and search of latches.

Make sure the device is off. To do this, switch the mode slider to OFF position or remove the batteries if they are installed. This is a critical step, since accidentally triggering the sensor during disassembly can lead to a foam emission or short circuit. Xiaomi uses reliable batteries, but it is better to be safe.

Algorithm of replacing the standard capacity (without full disassembly)

In most cases, you don't need to disassemble the body properly, and engineers have a fast cartridge replacement mechanism, so to open the compartment, find a locker button or lever on the back or bottom of the device, press it and simultaneously pull the top (the dispenser head) up.

If you're doing this for the first time, the mechanism can move tightly. Don't be afraid to exert moderate force, but act confidently. Once you remove the head, you'll see a standard liquid bottle, and it's also attached not just by an insert, but by a threaded connection or locking protrusions that you need to match with the slots in the body.

When you remove the old container, be careful: there's some left in the nose and tube. Turn the dispenser head over the sink and let the residue drain. The fluid intake tube must stay clean, otherwise there may be problems with foaming in the future. If you plan to use the original refill, just screw it in before you click.

Complete disassembly of the body for cleaning and repair

If your goal is not just replacement, but repair or deep cleaning, you have to remove the outer plastic casing, which is held on hidden latches that are located around the perimeter of the top and bottom, and it's visually difficult to find them, they disguise themselves as design.

Carefully insert a plastic card or a spatula into the seam between the matte and glossy parts of the case. Run the tool along the entire perimeter, slightly bending the plastic. You will hear the characteristic clicks - these are the locks coming out of the engagement. The main thing here is not to use metal objects that can split. ABS-plastic.

⚠️ Attention: When removing (the outer casing), there is a risk of damaging the plume connecting the control buttons or indicators to the main board.

Once the casing is removed, you will have access to the main module with the motor and battery compartment, and there is a pump, and you may need a cross screwdriver to unscrew the screws that hold the mechanical part, and remember the location of the screws, because they can be of different lengths.

Flushing and system washing

The most common problem that users face is that the dispenser stops feeding foam or starts spitting, and this happens because the product is drying in a narrow feed channel, and you need a warm water wash to open the way for the liquid.

Take the pump valve fluid intake tube, put it in a container of warm (not hot!) water, turn it on and let it do a few feed cycles, which will help dissolve the residue of the gel inside the mechanism, and if the water is flowing freely but the foam is not flowing, the nozzle itself may have been clogged.

To clean the pump, disassemble the pump mechanism. Wash all the parts under the water jet, removing the white plaque. A dried gel can block the pump piston from moving, causing the motor to hum, but not pumping. After cleaning, be sure to dry all the elements before assembly.

Use of alternative liquids and homemade solutions

The original Xiaomi cartridges are expensive, so many people are looking for ways to fill with regular soap. However, it is worth remembering that the device is designed for a certain viscosity of the liquid. Too thick soap motor just can not pump, and too liquid can flow through the seals.

The best solution is to dilute the ordinary liquid soap with water in a ratio of 1: 1 or 1: 2. You can also use special concentrates for automatic dispensers, it is important that the composition does not contain large abrasive particles or fibers that instantly clog the filter.

When you experiment with compounds, always test them in small volumes. Pour some solution into the cap and try to start the dispenser. If the motor is light and the foam is uniform, you can fill the full tank.

Assembly of the device and checking leakage

Once you've successfully cleaned or replaced the fluid, you've got to build it, you've got to do the reverse. Make sure all the sealing gums are in place and not twisted. The seal is key, otherwise, the first time you press them, the liquid will flow down the walls into the housing, oxidizing the contacts.

When you put the outer cover, first snap one side, then the opposite side, and then push the other faces until you click the right one. Don't leave any gaps. Put the batteries in and turn the device on.

💡

Lubricate the bottle neck thread with silicone lubrication before screwing in, which will prevent the plastic from boiling and make it easier to open the dispenser in the future.

Do a test run. Press a button or put your hand in the sensor. If the foam is flat and the body is dry, you did great. Now your smart dispenser is back on track.

Frequent errors in service

Beginners often make mistakes that lead to failure of equipment. One of the most common is trying to open the dispenser by force without finding hidden latches. Xiaomi plastic is strong but fragile at a break. Another mistake is ignoring the state of the batteries. Weak charge prevents the motor from developing the necessary power to pump the gel.

⚠️ Warning: Never leave your device on for long periods of time unattended if you're experimenting with liquids.

Also, you should not use aggressive chemicals (acetone, high concentration of chlorine) to clean the external and internal parts, they can eat up plastic or damage rubber seals, making them tough and brittle.

💡

Regular prophylactic washing with water (every 1-2 months) will prevent 90% of clog problems and prolong the life of the pump.