Xiaomi's smart aquariums are not just a water tank, but a full-fledged gadget that requires proper initialization. Many users make the mistake of believing that the device will work immediately after plugging in. In fact, the initial synchronization with the application is necessary for the filtration, lighting and feed system to work properly.
In this guide, we will take you through all the steps of activating your device, from unpacking to creating the perfect environment for the inhabitants. You will learn how to set up scenarios in Mi Home, avoid typical connection errors, and ensure that the fish live comfortably. Ignoring the software setting can lead to incorrect pump operation or malfunctioning feeding schedules.
The launch process takes no more than 15 minutes, but requires attention to detail, and pay special attention to water quality and wireless connectivity stability, as these factors are most often the cause of problems on the first day of operation.
Initial preparation and assembly of the structure
Before you think about software launch, you need to physically prepare the device for operation. Mini Fish Tank series or larger models require thorough washing of all internal components.
First, remove all the elements from the package and carefully remove the protective films. Pay special attention to the pump and the filter element. Wash the sponge and ceramic rings under running water, but do not use chemical detergents. Chlorine and perfume can be deadly to fish.
Set your aquarium on a flat, steady surface away from direct sunlight and drafts. The extreme temperature changes will disrupt the biobalance you're going to create. Make sure there's a power outlet nearby to connect the power adapter and a stable Wi-Fi router signal.
☑️ Pre-launch checks
After assembly, fill the tank with water. It is best to use settled tap water or bottled water for aquariums. The water temperature should be consistent with room temperature to avoid thermal shock when the heating elements are turned on (if they are provided by the model).
Installation and registration in the Mi Home application
To manage a smart aquarium, you’ll need a smartphone with an Android or iOS operating system. Download the official Mi Home app (or Xiaomi Home) from the Google Play store or App Store. Make sure you’re using the latest version of the software to support all of the device’s features.
Sign up or log in to your existing Mi Account. Importantly, the region of the account must match the region for which the device is intended. If the aquarium is purchased in China and the account is Russian, the device may not be automatically determined.
⚠️ Note: When registering, select the "China" region only if the device box has Chinese characters and QR-code CN. For the global versions, choose your country.
Adding the device occurs through a button «+» In the upper right corner of the main screen of the application, the system will offer to scan. QR-code located at the bottom of the aquarium or in the instructions. If the automatic search fails, select the device manually from the list of "Aquariums" or "Fishermen».
During the pairing process, keep your smartphone close to the aquarium. The app will request permission to use geolocation and Bluetooth, which is necessary for transmitting network settings. Enter a password from your Wi-Fi network. Remember that most smart home devices only work in the 2.4 GHz band.
What to do if your phone sees a 5GHz network?
Setting up a connection to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
A stable connection is key to automation. Xiaomi Aquarium uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol for initial pairing, then switches to Wi-Fi for remote control. If this stage passes with errors, you will not be able to control the device outside the home network.
If you have connection problems, check the following parameters:
- 📶 The Wi-Fi signal at the aquarium installation site must be confident (at least) 2-3 division).
- 🔒 The network must use encryption. WPA2-PSK, Open or corporate networks can block the device.
- 📱 The smartphone should be included GPS Bluetooth.
- 🔄 The router should not have customer isolation enabled (AP Isolation).
Sometimes you need to reset the network settings of the aquarium itself. This usually requires (press and hold) a function button on the housing for 5-7 seconds before the characteristic beep or flash of the indicator.
Initial start-up and calibration of systems
Once connected successfully, the device will begin its initial calibration, which can be when the water circulation pump and the aeration system are activated, and don't be alarmed if the water becomes cloudy in the first few minutes, which is normal for a new environment.
In the Mi Home app, go to the device settings, and you're asked to choose the type of inhabitants you plan to launch, which will determine the lighting settings and feed frequency, and the different fish modes, plant-only or off modes are available.
The system will automatically adjust the daylight hours, which is typically 8-10 hours of light, which mimics natural conditions, and you can manually change the schedule if the aquarium is in a dark room or in bright sun.
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To start the fish, wait at least 24 hours after filling the aquarium with water, which is the time necessary to weather the chlorine and stabilize the temperature.
Pay attention to the filter, the water should circulate evenly, without the formation of air traffic jams, if you hear gurgling, knock slightly on the body or tilt the aquarium to release air from the tube system.
Set up smart feeding scenarios
One of the key features of Xiaomi’s ecosystem is the ability to create complex scenarios: You can set up automatic feeding at specific times or activate it remotely while on vacation.
To set up, go to Automation or Scenarios inside the device card, and you can set the parameters here:
- ⏰ Feeding time: Set multiple intervals per day (e.g. 09:00 and 18:00).
- 🍽️ Portion: adjust the amount of food given out so as not to overfeed the fish.
- 💡 Light indication: you can adjust the flashing lamp before feeding, so that the fish get used to the regime.
It is important to use only specialized feed recommended by the manufacturer, or pellets of a certain size, too large pieces can get stuck in the dispenser mechanism, and fine dust can contaminate the water.
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Use only dry granular food. Wet food or live dafa is strictly prohibited in Xiaomi automatic feeders.
A "season mode" feature is also available, which increases feeding frequency or changes the light mode to simulate the host's presence, although this is less relevant for fish than stability of water parameters.
Diagnostics and maintenance of the device
Regular maintenance will extend the life of the device and keep the pets healthy. Mi Home may remind you to change the filter or clean the pump. Ignoring these signals will lead to reduced cleaning efficiency and increased nitrate levels.
The table below shows the main indicators of the condition and their decoding:
| Indicator | Status | Action. |
|---|---|---|
| Blue (permanent) | Normal work. | No maintenance required |
| Orange (blinking) | Low water level | Add water to the mark |
| Red (permanent) | Pump/filter error | Check the filter cleanliness |
| Green (blinking) | Interconnection mode | Add the device to the app |
Cleaning the aquarium should be done every 2-4 weeks depending on the population density. When replacing water (usually changing 20-30%), try to siphon the soil, removing the residues of food and waste products.
⚠️ Warning: Never rinse a biological filter (sponge, rings) under the strong pressure of tap water. Chlorine will kill beneficial bacteria and the aquarium will lose biological balance.
If the device makes extraneous noise, check if a foreign object has hit the impeller pump. Also make sure that the aquarium is strictly horizontal - skewing can cause vibration of the body.