Xiaomi’s wet-cleaning robots are real home assistants, but their effectiveness depends on proper water tank use, and many users face challenges ranging from leaks to screen errors due to improper refueling. This article will take a look at all the nuances – from the choice of water to the pouring algorithm for different models (Mi Robot Mop 2 Pro, Dreame Bot). L10, Viomi V3 others).
Not only will we give you step-by-step instructions, but we will also explain why you can't use tap water, how to avoid nozzle clogging, and what to do if the robot can't see the tank, and we will also reveal the secrets of extending the life of the pump mechanism and explain which liquids are strictly prohibited (spoiler: even some "safe" detergents!).
If your vacuum cleaner suddenly stops spraying water or gives an error E3 After refueling, you'll find a solution here, and don't forget to take a survey at the end of the section to see which models users have the most problems with!
1. What water can be poured into the tank: myths and reality
The first and most important question is, what liquid to use for wet cleaning? Xiaomi's official instructions only say "clean water," but that wording is too vague. Let's get a little bit more into it.
✅ Permitted:
- 💧 Distilled water is ideal because it leaves no plaque on the nozzles and is free of impurities, and is suitable for all models, including the Mi Robot Mop P and Dreame Bot. Z10 Pro.
- 💦 Boiled water (chilled!) is a budget alternative to distilled water. Important: boil for at least 5 minutes to kill bacteria and reduce stiffness.
- 🧼 Special cleaning products for robot vacuum cleaners (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Robot Detergent) have a neutral pH and do not foam. Use only diluted form - 1 cap per 500 ml of water!
❌ Prohibited (risk of breakdown!):
- 🚱 Tap water contains chlorine, salts and mechanical particles that clog the nozzles and shorten the life of the pump. In regions with hard water, plaque forms after 3-5 harvests.
- 🧴 Household detergents (Fairy, Mr. Proper, etc.) - cause excessive foaming that can damage sensors and electronics. Even soft floor washing products are not suitable for floor cleaning!
- ☕ Mineral or carbonated water – salts and carbon dioxide aggressively affect the plastic tank and rubber seals.
🔍 What happens if you ignore the recommendations? In 80% of cases, when you go to Xiaomi service centers with a problem "does not spray water", it is the wrong choice of liquid that is to blame. The raid on the nozzles narrows the clearance, and the foam from the detergents blocks the water level sensor, which causes the robot to emit an error. E5 («no water in the tank, even when the tank is full.
2. Step-by-step instructions: how to pour water into the tank
The refueling algorithm is simple, but many users miss key details, such as not putting water in a vacuum cleaner tank, which causes leaks and sensor errors.
Remove the tank from the robot (press Release button or pull up)
Wash the tank with warm water (if this is not the first gas station)
Wipe the contacts of the level sensor with a dry wipe
Prepare water (distilled or boiled)-->
📌 Step 1 Removal of the tank
Most models (Mi Robot Mop 2 Lite, Dreame Bot) D9) The tank is mounted on the latches. Press the Release button (usually located at the back) and pull the tank upwards. V2 Pro) the lid must be removed first and the tank removed.
⚠️ Warning: If the robot is on, be sure to put it into sleep mode before removing the tank or turn it off. Otherwise, the sensor may detect a "tank error» (E2), And you'll have to reset your settings.
📌 Step 2: Flushing the tank
If you are not filling the tank for the first time, rinse it with warm water (no more than 40).°C!) and dry. Pay special attention:
- 🔍 Spray nozzles - check if there is a clog (can be blown with compressed air).
- 🔋 The contact level sensors, they should be clean and dry.
- 🧽 Rubber seals – if they crack, replace them (Article for Mi Robot: ZNMS12WM).
📌 Step 3: Water pouring
Fill the tank to no more than 80% of the maximum level (usually marked by risk). MAX). The overflow leads to:
- 💦 Leaks through the vents.
- 🚨 False operation of the overflow sensor (error) E4).
- 🔊 Increased pump noise due to hydraulic shocks.
📌 Step 4: Install the tank back
Place the tank in the nest before you click.
- 🔌 Level sensor contacts connected to the connector in the vacuum cleaner.
- 🔒 The locks are snapped (pull the tank up - it should not be removed without pressing Release).
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If after installing the tank, the robot gives an error E2 («No tank. "" Turn it off for 10 seconds, then turn it on again.
3. Features of refueling for different Xiaomi models
The design of the reservoirs of Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners differs depending on the series. For example, the Mi Robot Mop 2 Pro has a separate water and detergent tank, and the Dreame Bot has a separate water and detergent tank. L10 — A single tank with automatic dosing. Let's look at the key differences:
| Model | Type of reservoir | Max, volume of water. | Features of refueling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Robot Mop 2 Lite | One tank. | 200 ml | There's no separate compartment for detergent, but only through the top hole. |
| Mi Robot Mop 2 Pro | Double tank | 250 ml (water) + 50ml (washing) | The detergent is put in a separate compartment, automatically mixing when cleaning. |
| Dreame Bot D9 | Single filter tank | 240 ml | The filter should be washed after every 3rd cleaning, pouring through the neck with a valve. |
| Viomi V3 | Buck with a pomp. | 300 ml | Before refueling, you need to remove the pump cover (Pump button). |
| Dreame Bot L10 | Intelligent tank | 270 ml | Automatic water flow control, distilled water only! |
🔧 Tips for Mi Robot Mop 2 Pro owners: If you use detergent, fill it in a separate compartment (marked with a pictogram) 🧼). Don't mix with water in advance -- the robot will dosage it automatically during cleaning. E6 («spray-block»).
⚠️ Attention to Dreame Bot L10: This model has a water hardness sensor, and if you pour tap water in, the robot can block the spray and show an error. E8. In this case, you will have to do a full reset via the Reset button (hold 10 seconds).
4 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when refueling the tank.-5 problems and solutions:
🔴 Mistake 1: The robot doesn't spray water
Reasons:
- 🚫 Nozzle clog (due to hard water or dust).
- 🔋 Discharged pump (if the robot has not been used for a long time).
- 💧 Low water level (the sensor does not work).
Solution: Blow the nozzles with compressed air (you can use a can to clean the equipment). If it does not help, rinse the tank in a solution of citric acid (1 tbsp. spoon per 1 liter of water) and rinse with distilled water.
🔴 Mistake 2: Water leakage
Reasons:
- 💦 Overflow of the reservoir (above the mark) MAX).
- 🔧 A loosely closed tank lid.
- 🧽 Wear of rubber seals (replacement is needed).
Solution: Check the integrity of the O-rings. If they crack, replace them (the kit for Xiaomi is worth it). ~300 rubles. Always pour water 1-2 cm below the mark MAX.
🔴 Mistake 3: The robot makes a mistake E3 («no water”) with a full tank
Reasons:
- 💧 Pollution of the level sensor (plaque or foam).
- 🔌 Poor contact of the sensor connector.
- 🛠️ Sensor failure (replacement required).
Solution: Wipe the sensor contacts with alcohol. If the error persists, reset the robot settings (Reset button on the case).
What if the robot can’t see water after the reset?
🔴 Mistake 4: Heavy noise when sprayed
Cause: Air entering the pump due to improper refueling (for example, if you pour water too quickly).
Solution: Remove the tank, shake it to let out the air, then set it back. If there is noise, check if the filter at the pump entrance is clogged (in Dreame Bot models, it is under the removable cover).
🔴 Mistake 5: Robot leaves wet footprints
Reasons:
- 💧 Too high water level in the tank.
- 🧽 Incorrectly configured spray intensity (in the Mi Home app).
- 🧺 Contaminated cloth (does not absorb water).
Solution: Reduce water consumption in cleaning settings (Water Volume option) → Choose Low or Medium. Wash the cloth by hand with a mild detergent.
5.Transfering the tank: how to extend the service life
Regular water tank maintenance not only prevents breakdowns, but also improves cleaning quality.
Wash the tank with warm water after each 5th cleaning
Clean the nozzles with a toothpick or compressed air
Check the seals for wear (replace every 6 months)
Wipe the contacts of the level sensor with alcohol
Keep the tank empty and dry (if the robot is not used for more than a week)-->
🧼 Cleaning the nozzles
The nozzles clog even when distilled water is used because of the dust that rises during cleaning.
- Remove the tank and rinse it under warm water.
- Direct the water stream from the tap into the nozzle holes (at an angle of 45).°).
- If the clog is severe, use a toothpick (carefully!) or a special printer cleaner (such as Karcher for inkjet printers).
🔋 Pump maintenance
The pump is the most vulnerable part of the spray system, so it lasts longer.
- 💧 Do not leave the water in the tank for a long time (maximum 2-3 days.
- 🔌 Once a month, “run” the pump without a rag: pour water, turn on cleaning for 1 minute, then drain the remains.
- 🛠️ If the pump starts to crunch, it's a sign of wear and tear. Replace it before it completely fails. - Mi Robot: ZNMS15PM).
🧽 Reservoir storage
If you haven’t used a robot for more than a week:
- Pour all the water out of the tank.
- Wash the tank and dry (you can use a hair dryer at minimum power).
- Keep the tank separate from the robot in a dry place (for example, in a silica gel bag).
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The use of distilled water and regular cleaning of nozzles increase the life of the pump by 2-3 times!
6. Frequent questions and myths about tank refueling
There are a lot of controversial tips on filling up robot vacuum cleaners online, and we'll look at some of the most popular questions and myths.
❓ Can vinegar be used to clean the tank?
❌ No! Vinegar corrodes rubber seals and can damage the level sensor. Use citric acid (1 tbsp per 1 liter of water) or special tablets to clean the coffee machines to remove plaque.
❓ Should I boil water if I have a reverse osmosis filter?
✅ Even filtered water can contain microparticles that clog the nozzles. Boiling kills bacteria and reduces stiffness, so it is recommended.
❓ Can I put in the tank flavorings for air?
❌ Absolutely not! Flavors contain oils and alcohols that break down plastic and rubber. If you want a fragrance, use special capsules for robot vacuum cleaners (for example, Xiaomi Mi Air Freshener).
❓ Why does the robot spray water unevenly?
This may be caused by:
- 💧 A clog of one of the nozzles (clean as described above).
- 🧷 Incorrect installation of the cloth (it should lie flat, without folds).
- 📱 Firmware failure (update the software via the Mi Home app).
❓ Can you use a robot without water, only for dry cleaning?
✅ Yeah, but:
- Make sure the tank is empty and dry (moisture can evaporate and condense to electronics).
- In some models (for example, Dreame Bot) L10) You need to manually disable the function of wet cleaning in the settings.
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If your robot has become less water absorbing, try washing a rag in a washing machine without air conditioning (it clogs microfibers).