Xiaomi water dispensers (including Viomi and Mijia sub-brands) are becoming increasingly popular due to the combination of smart features and affordable price. However, many users face difficulties when first switching on: the device does not respond to buttons, does not connect to the application or emits errors. In this article, we will analyze the step-by-step launch algorithm for all current models (2020-2026), and also explain how to avoid typical errors.
It is important to understand that the inclusion process depends on the type of dispenser: desktop (for example, Viomi Water Dispenser). V1), Floor (Mijia Smart Water Dispenser) and smart with heating/cooling (Viomi) V3 Pro! We'll cover all options, including touch-controlled models and mechanical buttons. If your dispenser doesn't respond to action, check the troubleshooting section.
Preparation of the dispenser for the first inclusion
Before you connect your device to the network, follow a few mandatory steps, which neglect can lead to malfunctions or even breakdown.
First, unpack the dispenser and check the equipment.
- π¦ The dispenser itself with the lid
- β‘ Power cable (for models with electric heating)
- π Instructions in Chinese/English (Russian version is rare)
- π§ Fixed elements (if the model is wall-mounted)
- π§ Filter (for models with water purification, for example, Viomi) V3)
Pay special attention to washing the system, even new dispensers can contain industrial dust or preservative lubricant inside.
- Pour 2-3 liters of pure water into the tank (without a filter!).
- Turn the dispenser on and wait for the system to fill up (usually takes 1-2 minutes).
- Pour the water through the tap, repeat the procedure 2-3 times.
π‘
If your model is equipped with a carbon filter (for example, Viomi). V3 Pro, first run without a filter β so you wash the remains of coal dust from the system.
For the Mijia Smart Water Dispenser, allow the device to stand in a room for 2-3 hours before first switching on, to stabilize the pressure in the cooling system.
2. Electrical connection and mechanical start
Now, to turn it on, the algorithm depends on the type of control your dispenser has.
| Type of management | Models. | Sequence of action |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical buttons | Viomi V1, Mijia Basic | 1.Put the plug into the socket. 2.Push and hold the Power button 3-5 seconds. 3.Past the sound signal (beep) or the indicator blink. |
| Sensory management | Viomi V3, Xiaomi Smart Dispenser Pro | 1. Connect to the network. 2. Touch the touchpad for 2 seconds. 3. A welcome message will appear on the screen (for models with a display). |
| Smart (only via Mi Home) | Mijia Smart Water Dispenser 2 | 1. Connect to the network. 2. The device will automatically go into pairing mode (blind flashing). 3. Further configuration only through the application. |
For models with display (Viomi) V3 Pro: you may have a request to select a language after you turn on. Unfortunately, Russian is often not in the firmware, choose English. If the display does not respond, try a hard reboot: turn off the power for 10 seconds, then turn on again.
Make sure the tank is empty (for washing)|Check the voltage in the socket (220V)|Place the dispenser on a flat surface|Connect to the network without extension cords (to avoid voltage surges)|-->
Important: compressor-cooled models (such as the Mijia Smart Water Dispenser) can make loud noises when first turned on, which is normal. The compressor calibrates within 5-10 minutes.
3. Customization via the Mi Home app (for smart models)
If your dispenser supports Mi Home connectivity (e.g. Viomi) V3 Mijia Smart Water Dispenser 2, you can't do without the app:
1. Download Mi Home from Google Play or App Store (version at least 6.0).
2. Sign up or sign in to your Xiaomi account (be sure to link your phone number!).
3.Push it. + β Add the device in the upper right corner.
4. Select the category Smart Home β Water dispenser.
Follow the instructions on the screen, and the device should flash blue, which means it's ready to pair.
- π Reconnect the dispenser to the network.
- π± Re-launch the Mi Home app.
- π Press and hold the reset button (usually on the back) for 10 seconds.
After successful connection, the main functions will appear in the application:
- π‘οΈ Temperature adjustment (for heated/cooled models).
- β±οΈ Water supply timer.
- π Consumption statistics.
- π Water level in the tank.
If the device is not in Mi Home, check:
- πΆ Is the phone connected to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi (smart dispensers do not work with 5 GHz!).
- π Is the dispenser in the range of the router (maximum 10 meters without obstacles).
- π Is the router firmware updated (older versions can block Xiaomi devices).
4. Operation modes and their activation
Modern Xiaomi dispensers support several modes of operation, letβs analyze how to turn them on and when they are needed.
π₯ Heating mode
Available in Viomi models V3 Pro and Mijia Smart Water Dispenser to activate:
- On mechanical models, hold the Hot button for 3 seconds.
- On the touch - touch the kettle icon (π΅) display.
- At Mi Home, go to Settings β Temperature. β Hot water.
The heating temperature is usually fixed - 90-95Β°C. Heating time depends on the volume of water (average 5-8 minutes).
βοΈ Cooling mode
It is activated similarly to heating, but using a Cold button or snowflake icon (βοΈ). Cooling works to 5-10Β°C. Pay attention:
- π The first cooling takes up to 30 minutes.
- π In cooling mode, the dispenser consumes more electricity.
- π§ Do not pour hot water into the tank β it can damage the cooling system.
π° Child lockdown regime
Important function for families with children:
- On mechanical models: Hold the power + Hot 5 seconds.
- On the touch: pinch the icon of the lock (π) 3 seconds.
- At Mi Home: Settings β Security β Child lockdown.
In this mode, the dispenser will not respond to random pressing. To unlock, repeat the same combination.
What to do if the dispenser does not cool the water?
5. Typical errors and their elimination
Even when switched on correctly, the dispenser may not work properly, and we've collected some of the most common problems and ways to solve them.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Dispenser's off-line. | Power cable or power outlet is faulty | Check the voltage in the socket with a tester, try another cable |
| Blinking red light | Low water level or sensor error | Reload the water, reset the device |
| Not connected to Mi Home | Incompatible Wi-Fi (5GHz) network | Switch the router to 2.4 GHz mode or use a repeater |
| The water is not cooling. | Filter clogged or compressor faulty | Rinse the system, check the fan on the back panel |
| Loud noises at work | Air in the cooling system | Turn it off for 10 minutes, then turn it on again. |
If the dispenser is making a continuous squeak, it's usually a critical error.
- π΄ 1 Short Signal β Low Water Level.
- π‘ 2 signals - error of the temperature sensor.
- π΄π΄ 3 signals - failure of the heating element.
- π‘π‘π΄ 1 long + 1 Short β Error of Wi-Fi connection.
π‘
If the dispenser beeps and does not respond to the buttons, try resetting to the factory settings: disconnect from the network, press the Power button and connect back, holding it for 10 seconds.
For models with display (Viomi) V3 Pro) error codes are displayed on the screen, for example:
- E1 β water-level sensor problem.
- E2 β heat-up.
- E3 β cooling-out.
π‘
If the dispenser does not turn on after resetting, check the fuse on the power supply. In Mijia models, it is located under the back cover (a cross screwdriver is required).
Maintenance and care of the dispenser
To ensure that the dispenser lasts a long time, follow simple rules:
π§Ό Cleaning the tank
Carry out deep cleaning at least 1 time per month:
- Disconnect the device from the network.
- Pour all the water and remove the tank.
- Wash the inner surfaces with a soft sponge with baking soda or a special dispenser remedy.
- Dry in the air (do not use a hair dryer!).
π§ Replacement of the filter
In models with filtration (Viomi) V3 Pro) the filter should be replaced every 3-6 months (depending on the hardness of the water:
- Buy the original filter (the article is specified in the manual).
- Unscrew the old counterclockwise filter.
- Install a new one, after washing it under running water for 1-2 minutes.
- Reset the filter resource counter in Mi Home (Settings) β Filter β Reset).
β‘ Saving electricity
Heated/cooled dispensers consume 300-800 watts per hour to reduce consumption:
- π Turn off cooling overnight (unless you use cold water).
- π Use a timer socket to automatically shut down.
- βοΈ Install the dispenser away from direct sunlight (overheating increases the load on the compressor).
π‘
For models with display (Viomi) V3 Pro) activate Eco mode in the settings. It automatically turns off the heating if the water has not been used for more than 2 hours.
7. Comparison of popular Xiaomi models
To make it easier for you to choose a dispenser, we have compiled a comparative table of current models (2023-2026).
| Model | Type | Volume, l | Refrigeration/heating | Smart governance | Price, β½ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viomi V1 | Tabletop | 4 | No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/No/ | No. | 3 500β4 500 |
| Viomi V3 | Floor-like | 8 | Yes (5-10)Β°C/Yes (90)Β°C) | Mi Home | 8 000β10 000 |
| Mijia Smart Water Dispenser | Floor-like | 10 | Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes/ | Mi Home + display | 12 000β15 000 |
| Viomi V3 Pro | Floor-like | 12 | Yes (4Β°C/Yes (95)Β°C) | Mi Home + voice assistant | 18 000β22 000 |
For most users, Viomi is the best choice. V3 β It combines good capacity, smart management and reasonable price. If you want an office dispenser, look at the 10 litre Mijia Smart Water Dispenser.
Models without heating/cooling (Viomi) V1) They're cheaper, but they require manual control of the water temperature.