Assembly of the dispenser for Xiaomi soap: from unpacking to the first launch

Xiaomi’s automatic soap dispensers are not just a convenience gadget, but a full-fledged smart home element that saves cleaning costs and maintains hygiene at a new level. However, many users face difficulties in the first assembly: unclear instructions in Chinese, lack of key parts in the kit or fear of damaging fragile sensors. This article will help avoid typical errors and assemble the device correctly the first time.

We will take a look at the process using popular models such as Xiaomi Mijia Automatic Soap Dispenser and Viomi Smart Soap Dispenser, and consider the universal principles that are suitable for most of the brand’s automatic dispensers. We will focus on sensor calibration, choice of detergent and integration with the Mi Home ecosystem. If you bought the device on AliExpress or in the official store, this instruction is relevant for you.

What Xiaomi Dispensers Models Are and How They Differ

Before you build, it's important to know which model you're holding in your hands, and the nuances of the installation and the settings depend on it.

• 🔹 Xiaomi Mijia Automatic Soap Dispenser - the base model with an infrared sensor, a capacity of 300 ml and power from 4 batteries AA. Supports only liquid soap.

The key difference is the type of sensor. Mijia models use an infrared sensor that responds to hand movement at a distance of 5-10 cm. Viomi has a capacitive sensor that activates when touched - this reduces false positives, but requires more precise configuration. Some models also support Bluetooth connection to control through the Mi Home app.

If you've bought a dispenser on AliExpress or in unofficial stores, check the labeling on the box. Often under the guise of Xiaomi, they sell clones with simplified electronics.

• 📦 Mi or Viomi logo on the package and the device.
• 🔋 QR-code for connecting to Mi Home (sticker on the bottom or inside the battery compartment).
• 📄 Instructions in Chinese with pictograms (there is no Russian in the original).

Preparation for assembly: what should be included in the package

Before you start the assembly, carefully check the equipment. In the box with the original dispenser Xiaomi should be:

If the kit is missing a mounting plate or batteries, it's not always a sign of a fake. Some sellers on AliExpress save on trifles, but the device itself may be original. QR-Home Home > Mi Home > Reason to Be Wary.

⚠️ Note: If the box contains only a case without a lid or electronic unit, most likely you were sold a defective device or a fake.In the original dispensers Xiaomi all parts are packaged separately and protected with foam.

Also prepare additional materials that may be needed:

• 🔧 Cross screwdriver (for some models).
• 🧴 Liquid soap or foam (for testing).
• 📱 Smartphone with Mi Home app (if the model supports Bluetooth).
• 🔌 Batteries (if not included).

Step-by-step instructions for the assembly of the dispenser

Now, to the build process itself, follow the instructions in order to avoid errors, starting with the basic Xiaomi Mijia Automatic Soap Dispenser:

Step 1: Installation of batteries (or connection) USB-C)

• 🔋 Open the battery compartment at the bottom of the device (usually it is closed with a lid on the latches).
• 🔄 Insert 4 batteries AA, Polarity (painted on the body).
• 🔌 For models with USB-C Connect the cable to a power source (for example, to charge from a phone).

Step 2: Assembly of the main body

• 🧩 Carefully insert the pumping mechanism into the main body (it should stand with a slight click).
• 🔧 If the screws are included, fix the pump with a screwdriver (do not drag it over!).
• 💧 Pour the soap into the container to mark MAX (It's usually 250-300 ml).

Step 3: Installation of the sensor cover

• 🔍 Combine the grooves on the lid with guides on the body.
• 📶 Make sure the infrared sensor (small window) is not covered with soap or fingers.
• 🔄 Turn the lid clockwise to the point (do not make excessive efforts!).

Step 4: Sensor calibration

This is the most important step! Incorrect calibration leads to false positives or complete failure of the dispenser.

1. Turn on the device (usually there is a button on the bottom or side).
2. Put your hand to the sensor at a distance of 5-7 cm and hold for 3 seconds.
3. The dispenser should give you a soap, and if that doesn't happen, repeat the action.
4. For models with a capacitive sensor (Viomi), a light touch is enough.

If the dispenser does not respond:

• 🔋 Check the batteries (they must be new and properly installed).
• 🧼 Make sure the soap is not too thick (can clog the pump).
• 📱 Restart the device by holding the power button for 10 seconds.

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If the dispenser produces too much or little soap, adjust the portion volume with a special screw at the pump (if you have one in your model).

Installation of the dispenser on the wall or countertop

The dispenser can be used in both the desktop and wall versions. Let's look at both.

Desktop installation:

• 🪑 Place the dispenser on a flat surface next to the sink.
• 🧽 Make sure the distance to the tap is at least 15 cm (so that the splashes don't hit the sensor).
• 🔌 If you use USB-food, hide the cable behind the sink or in the box.

Wall montage:

1. 📏 Attach a fastening plate to the wall and mark with a pencil the drilling places.
2. ⚒️ Drill holes and insert dowels (usually come complete).
3. 🔩 Then, put the slack on the plate (do not pull it over!).
4. 🧲 Place the dispenser on the plate (it should be snapped).

For models with double-sided tape:

• 🧴 Clean the surface of the wall with alcohol.
• 📏 Stick the tape to the plate and press tightly against the wall for 30 seconds.
• ⚠️ Do not use such installation on uneven or wet surfaces!

⚠️ Note: If you install a dispenser in the bathroom, avoid areas with direct water intake (such as near the shower). Humidity can disable the electronic unit, even if the device has protection. IPX4.

To test the reliability of the attachment, pull the dispenser down slightly, and if it moves, strengthen the fixation or use additional fasteners.

Set up the dispenser through the Mi Home app (for smart models)

If your meter supports Bluetooth connectivity (like Viomi Smart Soap Dispenser), it can be integrated into the Xiaomi ecosystem.

1. 📱 Install the Mi Home app (available for Android and iOS).
2. 🔍 Sign up or sign in to your Xiaomi account.
3. ➕ Click Add Add the device → Choose the Smart Home category → Soap dispenser.
4. 📶 Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and bring it to the dispenser.
5. 🔗 Confirm the pairing in the appendix.

After the connection, you will be able to access the functions:

• 📊 Monitoring the level of soap (if the model supports the level sensor).
• ⚙️ Customization of portion volume (from 0.5 to 2 ml).
• 🔄 Saving mode (reduces soap consumption).
• 🛠️ Diagnostics of malfunctions (notifications of blockages or low charge).

Some firmware also has Guest Mode, which gives you an increased amount of soap when the sensor is double-activated, which is convenient if you have frequent guests.

⚠️ Note: If the dispenser does not connect to the Mi Home, check: 🔋 Battery level (must be at least 50%). 📶 Distance to the phone (no more than 1 meter). 🔄 Firmware version (update through Settings) → On the appliance).

Choosing a detergent: what can and can not be poured

Not all detergents are suitable for Xiaomi automatic dispensers. Using the wrong soap can lead to clogged pumps or sensor breakdowns.

If you use thick soap, dilute it with warm water in a 1:1 ratio and mix well. Also avoid products with:

• 🧴 Large particles (scrabs, peelings).
• 🧪 High alcohol content (more than 10%).
• 🌿 Essential oils (can leave a sticky plaque on the sensor).

Critical error: pouring into the dispenser of funds based on chlorine or bleach will lead to corrosion of metal parts of the pump and the device will fail.

You can use regular water to test the dispenser, which will help you check the leakage and calibrate the sensor without the risk of spoiling the soap.

Frequent problems and their solution

Even after assembly is correct, the dispenser can malfunction, and let's look at the typical malfunctions and how to fix them.

Problem 1: The dispenser does not respond to the arm

• 🔋 Check the batteries (replace them with new ones).
• 🧲 Make sure the sensor is not covered with a sticker or dirt.
• 🔄 Restart the device (hold the power button for 10 seconds).
• 📶 If the model is Bluetooth, check the connection in Mi Home.

Problem 2: The soap doesn’t come out or flows in a thin stream

• 🧼 Check the viscosity of the soap (dilute with water if necessary).
• 🔧 Clean the pump from the blockage (see instructions below).
• 💧 Make sure there is enough liquid in the container (minimum 50 ml).

Problem 3: False positives (the dispenser works by itself)

• 🌡️ Check the lighting - bright light can knock the infrared sensor.
• 🧲 Adjust the sensitivity (if there is a button).
• 🔄 Move the dispenser away from heat sources (such as a hair dryer).

Problem 4: Soap is leaking from under the lid

• 🔧 Check the density of the cover fitting (may not have been twisted).
• 🛠️ Check the ring for damage.
• 💧 Don't pour soap above the mark MAX.

If none of these methods worked, try resetting the dispenser settings.

1. Turn off the device.
2. Hold the power button for 15 seconds.
3. Turn on the dispenser again and repeat the calibration.

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Most of the problems with Xiaomi dispensers are due to the wrong soap or discharged batteries.Always start your diagnosis by checking these two points.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions