Wireless owners often experience a drop in cleaning efficiency when the filtration system clogs. If you notice that the suction power has dropped significantly and there is a weak airflow from the outlet, it's time to service the device. Regular maintenance is not just a fad, it's a necessity to extend the life of the motor.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the process of extracting, cleaning and proper drying of filter elements in manual models of the Xiaomi brand and their sub-brands (Deerma, Dreame). Incorrect care of this part can lead to overheating of the engine and the failure of an expensive gadget.
Before you start disassembling, make sure the device is turned off and disconnected from the charger. Many users mistakenly believe that it is enough to just dislodge the dust, but deep cleaning often requires a complete water wash. Let's take a look at why this is so important and how to avoid typical errors.
Why You Should Clean Your Filtration System Regularly
The main task of any vacuum cleaner is not only to collect garbage from the floor, but also to not release it back into the atmosphere with the blown air. HEPA-A filter that traps the smallest particles of dust, allergens and bacteria, and if that barrier is clogged, air stops circulating through the system, creating a vacuum inside the enclosure.
When the airflow is blocked by dirt, the motor starts to run in overload mode, trying to compensate for the lack of traction, which leads to a critical increase in the temperature of the internal components, at best, the thermal protection will work and the device will turn off, at worst, the winding of the motor will burn, so cleaning is a matter of safety for your equipment.
In addition, a clogged filter stops effectively trapping dust. Microscopic particles start to seep through walls or come out, polluting indoor air. For people with allergies, using a dirty vacuum cleaner can be more dangerous than the dust on the floor itself. Regular maintenance ensures that the exhaled air stays clean.
- 🌪️ Maintaining maximum suction power throughout the service life.
- 🛡️ Protecting an expensive engine from overheating and premature wear.
- 🦠 Preventing the release of accumulated dust and allergens back into the room.
- 🔋 Reduced power consumption, as the motor does not need to run to the limit of capabilities.
⚠️ Attention: Ignoring contamination of the filter element is one of the main reasons for refusal of warranty repairs. Manufacturers clearly indicate in the documentation that late cleaning leads to breakdowns that cannot be repaired free of charge.
Types of filters in hand vacuum cleaners Xiaomi
Xiaomi’s handheld lineup, including the Vacuum, Handheld and partners like Dreame, typically uses a multi-stage cleaning system. Understanding the differences between components is critical, as each requires a different approach to maintenance. You can’t confuse them, otherwise you can damage the delicate structure of the materials.
The first line of defense is usually a mesh filter or a cyclone separator, which traps large debris, followed by a main filter element, often in the form of a corrugated cylinder, which is responsible for fine cleaning, and some models also have an additional sponge or felt pad to protect the engine compartment.
The materials can vary, budget models can be equipped with washable synthetic fabrics, while premium segments use more complex composites. HEPA-filters have a limited resource even with perfect care, and their periodic replacement will still be required.
| Type of element | Materials | Frequency of cleaning | Can I wash? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preliminary (grid) | Metal/Plastic | After every cleaning. | Yeah, under the tap. |
| Main (HEPA) | Fiberglass compressed | Once every 2-4 weeks | Yeah, but be careful. |
| Protective sponge | Porolon/Synthepone | Once a month | Yeah, with a mild remedy. |
| Engine bay. | Plastic. | Six months | Just dry cleaning. |
Preparation for the cleaning procedure
Before any manipulations begin, you need to prepare the workplace, you need a sink with running water, a soft brush (you can use an old toothbrush), and perhaps a soft detergent without aggressive chemical additives. Do not use chlorine solutions or bleachers, they can destroy the structure of the filter material.
Be sure to wait until the battery is fully discharged, or make sure the device is turned off if it has been working before. Although the water only comes into contact with removable cells, safety is paramount, and prepare a dry towel or wipe to remove excess moisture from the plastic parts of the case.
Free the dust container. Even if it seems empty, there may be microparticles left on the walls that will get inside when disassembled. Wipe the inside of the container with a wet cloth to ensure perfect access to the filter unit. This will take a couple of minutes, but will make it easier to go on.
☑️ Prepare for the wash.
Step-by-step: how to remove and wash the filter
The extraction process in manual Xiaomi models is usually unified. First, you need to remove the dust collector or open it, depending on the design of the particular model. In most cases, the filter unit is located at the top of the container or directly at the air outlet in front of the motor.
Carefully pull the tongue or the filter handle. Don't use excessive force; if the element doesn't go, you may not have fully opened the latching latches. Once removed, visually assess the degree of contamination. If the dust is dry, you can pre-shake it off over the trash can so as not to clog the sink.
Now we turn to water treatments: rinse the element under a weak stream of warm water. Direct the flow of water against the direction of suction (from the inside out) to wash the dirt from the depths of the pores. Carefully rinse all the folds of corrugated water. If you use a brush, do it very delicately so as not to damage the fine fibers.
⚠️ Warning: It is strictly forbidden to use a vacuum cleaner to clean the filter itself or dry it with a hairdryer! hot air deforms the plastic frame and can melt the adhesive layer connecting the filter material.
What to do if the filter smells?
Rules for drying and assembly of the device
The most critical step is drying, and the water that gets into the engine is guaranteed to knock it out, so absolute dryness of the filter element is mandatory. Even if it looks dry visually, there may be moisture inside the pores. Leave the filter to dry at room temperature in a well-ventilated place.
The natural drying process takes 12 to 24 hours, depending on the humidity in the room. Don't try to speed up the process by putting the filter on the battery or under direct sunlight. High temperatures can deform plastic parts and lose leakage, which will reduce the cleaning efficiency to zero.
While the main element is drying, wipe the insides of the vacuum cleaner with a dry cloth. Make sure that the mine where the filter is inserted is free of moisture and debris. Only after you are sure that all components are dry, you can start assembling. Insert the filter before clicking, check the density of the covers.
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Readiness check: Put your dry finger in the center of the filter -- if you feel the slightest coolness or humidity, you should continue drying. It's better to wait an extra couple of hours than risk the engine.
Typical errors and replacement times
Many users make the mistake of trying to knock dust out of the filter by hitting a hard surface. HEPA-And you can't wash the filter in the washing machine, because the centrifugal force and the chemistry will completely destroy its properties.
The filter element is not endless. Even with regular washing, the fibers wear out and the pores clog with the smallest dust that can not be washed. Manufacturers recommend changing the main filter every 3-6 months of active use. If you clean every day, the period can be reduced to 2-3 months.
Signs that the filter needs to be replaced, not just washed: the appearance of a persistent smell of burns or dust after cleaning, visible damage (holes, scuffs), a change in the color of the material that is not washed, or the loss of the shape of the cylinder. Using original or quality compatible consumables is the key to the long life of your Xiaomi.
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Timely replacement of the filter is cheaper than engine repair. Don't skimp on consumables if you notice that the flushing has stopped restoring the suction power.