Xiaomi Derma air humidifier: how to turn on and configure correctly

The Xiaomi Smartmi Air Humidifier Derma (also known as the Zhimi Humidifier CA4) is a smart device that not only maintains a comfortable humidity level, but also integrates into the Mi Home ecosystem. However, many users face difficulties when first switched on, from lack of button response to Wi-Fi connection errors. In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step launch algorithm, the nuances of settings through the application, as well as typical problems and their solutions.

It’s important to understand that Derma differs from other Xiaomi humidifiers (like Pro or Evaporative) by having ultrasonic technology with a warm steam function and built-in hygrostat. This means that the process of on and calibration here has its own peculiarities. If you just unpacked the device or encountered an error after updating the firmware, our instructions will help avoid typical errors.

Preparation of Xiaomi Derma humidifier for the first inclusion

There are several steps that must be taken before connecting a device to the network, and neglecting them can cause sensors to malfunction or even break down.

First, remove all the components from the box and check for integrity.

• 📦 The main humidifier unit with a water tank
• 🔌 Power adapter (usually) 24V/1.5A)
• 📄 Instructions in Chinese (Russian version is available only in electronic form)
• 🧴 Water softening cartridge (if provided in your model)

Pay special attention to the cartridge filter. In the Derma CA4 and CA1 models, it is installed inside the tank and requires pre-soaking in water for 10-15 minutes. If you skip this step, the device can emit an E1 error (low water level) even when the tank is full.

💡

Do not use distilled water in a Xiaomi Derma humidifier, which can damage the ultrasonic membrane, and the best option is boiled or filtered water with a hardness of no more than 150 ppm.

Step-by-step instructions: how to turn on the humidifier

After preparation, you can start switching on. Follow the algorithm in strict order:

1. Set the tank on the base, and it should stand with a characteristic click, and make sure that the contacts at the bottom of the tank match the connectors at the base.
2. Connect the power adapter to the outlet 220V. On the front panel will light up the indicator (usually blue).
3. Press the power button (a round button with the on symbol) and hold it for 3 seconds. The device will emit an audible signal.
4. Select the mode of operation: 🌫️ Auto - Automatic humidity control (recommended) 💧 High/Medium/Low — manually 🔥 Warm Mist - Warm steam mode (not available in all versions)

If an E2 error appears on the display after turning on, it means that the humidity sensor is not calibrated. To reset, hold the power button for 10 seconds until the double beep is made.

Soak the filter cartridge for 10-15 minutes |

Make sure the tank is installed before clicking |

Use water with a hardness of ≤150 ppm|

Connect the adapter to the socket without extensions|-->

Connecting to the Mi Home application: synchronization and configuration

To manage the humidifier remotely and use advanced features (such as a schedule or bundle with other Xiaomi devices), you need to connect it to the Mi Home application, a process that can be difficult due to the peculiarities of the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol, which is used for initial binding.

Follow the instructions:

1. Download the latest version of Mi Home from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Sign up or sign in to your Xiaomi account (be sure to link your phone number!).
3. Click Add Device (+) → Select Smart Home → Humidifier.
4. Hold the power button on the humidifier for 5 seconds until the indicator starts flashing orange.
5. In the app, confirm your Bluetooth connection, then switch the device to Wi-Fi mode (make sure your router is running at 2.4 GHz!).

💡

For allergy sufferers, it is recommended to use the Auto mode with a target humidity of 45-55% and a weekly change of water in the tank.

Cleaning and maintenance: how to extend the life of the device

Ultrasonic humidifiers require regular maintenance, otherwise their efficiency declines and the risk of breakdowns increases. For Xiaomi Derma, the manufacturer recommends the following maintenance schedule:

⚠️ Warning: Never use household chlorine chemicals or bleach to clean the Xiaomi Derma moisturiser.This destroys the antibacterial coating of the tank and can cause contact corrosion.

If you clean it up louder or you have a white coating on the furniture, it's a sign of lime deposits.

1. Pour into the tank a solution of citric acid (2 tbsp. spoons per 1 liter of water).
2. Turn on the humidifier for 1 hour in High mode.
3. Wash all components thoroughly with running water.

Linking with other Xiaomi devices: automation scenarios

One of the key benefits of Derma is its integration into the Mi Home ecosystem, where you can create automatic scripts by linking the humidifier to other gadgets, such as:

• 🌡️ "Comfortable sleep: Condition: humidity <40% (Xiaomi Temperature and Humidity Sensor: Action: The humidifier is switched on in Sleep Mode, and Yeelight dims the lights to the humidifier. 10%.
• 🏠 "Eco-mode: Condition: window open (Xiaomi sensor) Door/Window Sensor: Action: The humidifier turns off so as not to waste energy.
• 👶 "Children's room": Condition: humidity <50% + temperature >22°C. Action: switches on the humidifier on Medium and Xiaomi Air Purifier on 1 level.

To customize the scripts in Mi Home:

1. Go to the Automation section → Add.
2. Choose a Smart Home and add participating devices.
3. Set the conditions (if...) and actions (that...).
4. Save the script and test it manually.

⚠️ Note: When creating Derma humidifier scenarios, avoid conditions that may lead to cyclic on/off (e.g., bundling with a motion sensor.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the Xiaomi Derma moisturizer