Xiaomi’s Mijia series automatic dispensers have been the benchmark for convenience and hygiene in modern bathrooms for several years. These devices, such as the XSJ01 or XSJ02 models, provide a contactless soap supply, which is especially true in conditions of increased sanitation requirements. However, even the most reliable equipment requires maintenance, and the main question that owners face is how to replace the Xiaomi dispenser when the liquid is running out or dry.
The process of replacing consumables or cartridges seems trivial, but Xiaomi’s ecosystem has its nuances. Installation can lead to leaks, pump clogging or sensor errors. In this article, we will discuss in detail the mechanics of the devices, how to replace the original and third-party cartridges, and methods for resuscitating the dispenser if it stops working.
Before you start to act, you need to determine the type of device you have, and some models use interchangeable cartridges that change entirely with the liquid, while others involve simply adding soap to the tank, and understanding the design of your gadget's pump system is the first step to successful maintenance without risking damage to the electronics.
Determination of cartridge model and type
The first thing to do before replacing is to identify the specific modification of the dispenser. Xiaomi devices often look similar, but have differences in the way the container is attached. The standard Mijia Automatic Induction Soap Dispenser model (often labeled XSJ01) uses 230 ml replaceable cartridges. Visually, they are a white plastic container with a pump inside.
Newer versions, such as the Mijia Smart Induction Soap Dispenser Pro, can support its own application and have a more complex valve system. It's important to look at the bottom of the body. If you see a threaded joint or characteristic latches on the sides, this indicates the type of attachment. Using an inappropriate cartridge can cause the device to fail to read fluid levels correctly or not turn on at all.
Note the front lights. Blinking blue light usually indicates low battery power, whereas flashing red or no response when you put your hand up may indicate capacity problems or clogging. The meter design provides dry run protection, so without a properly installed cartridge, the motor may not start.
- 🔍 Examine the marking on the bottom of the device for accurate model definition.
- 🔍 Check for an original cartridge or empty dowsing container.
- 🔍 Pay attention to the color of the status indicator before disassembly.
⚠️ Warning: Do not force another manufacturer's cartridge unless it enters the slots easily.Mechanical damage to the contacts at the bottom of the dispenser will lead to irreversible failure of the electronics.
Preparation for replacement of consumables
Replacing the cartridge or filling the soap requires pre-prepared workspace, and since you're going to be dealing with liquid, you'll need to cover the surface of the table or sink with paper towels, which will prevent the device from slipping and make cleaning easier in case of accidental spillage, and you'll need warm water and maybe a thin needle or toothpick to clean the nose.
If you plan to use a non-original soap, make sure that its consistency meets the manufacturer's requirements. Too thick soaps or products with large abrasive particles can quickly disable the peristaltic pump, which is the heart of the dispenser. Optimal viscosity of the liquid is critical for the stable operation of the feed mechanism.
It is important for cartridge system owners to have a new sealed unit on hand. If you are using a refueling system, prepare a needleless syringe or a special bottle with a thin nose to gently pour liquid into the hole to avoid the formation of air traffic jams in the system.
- 🧻 Cover the work with surface wipes or a towel.
- 💧 Prepare warm water for flushing the tubes (if required).
- 🧴 Make sure that the new soap has the right viscosity and does not contain solid particles.
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Use a liquid soap with neutral pH and no oils, which can harden and clog thin dispenser tubes.
Step-by-step: Replacement of the cartridge
Xiaomi's cartridge replacement process is designed to be as simple as possible, but neat as possible. First, pick up the device and press the unlock button located on the bottom of the case, or turn the bottom cover counterclockwise, depending on the model. Remove the external plastic glass to access the internal mechanism.
Then you have to take out the old cartridge. To do this, hold firmly on the top of the device (the motor head) and pull the cartridge down. In some models, you need to press the locks on the sides. Pull the container smoothly, without jerking, so as not to damage the silicone tube that connects the pump to the outlet. If the tube is disconnected, it will need to be carefully returned to place before clicking.
Install the new cartridge by matching the guide slots on the container body with the response parts in the dispenser head. Push the cartridge up to the characteristic click. Make sure the silicone tube is straightened and not twisted. Then assemble the case in reverse order: install the outer glass and lock the bottom cover. The device should automatically turn on or require a short press of the activation button.
☑️ Checklist for cartridge replacement
After assembly, it is recommended to make a few blank presses to fill the system with liquid and displace the air from the tubes. The first portion of soap can come out with a delay - this is normal for a small hydraulic system. If after 5-7 attempts the soap does not arrive, check if the protective film is removed from the cartridge opening (if any).
| Phase | Action. | Important detail |
|---|---|---|
| Disassembly | Removal of the glass | Do not pull on decorative elements |
| Dismantling | Removal of receptacle | Keep an eye on the feeding tube |
| Installation | Installation of a new cartridge | You should hear the click. |
| Verification | Test launch | Up to 7 taps for pumping |
Use of universal cartridges and refueling
Xiaomi's original cartridges tend to end at the worst possible time, and they can cost more than the market average. Many users are switching to universal cartridges or refueling systems. This requires purchasing an empty, compatible container that is the same size as the original. The key here is the length and diameter of the suction tube.
When installing a universal cartridge, you often need to move the pump head from the original container to a new one, and this should be done with extreme care so as not to damage the sealing gums. If you use the method of direct pouring soap into the original cartridge (by drilling the hole or using a syringe), make sure that you completely remove the residues of the old soap so that there is no chemical reaction or dissection of substances.
⚠️ Note: When using non-original containers, the fluid level sensor may not work correctly. Dosing the volume manually, as the "empty" indication may catch fire prematurely or not catch fire at all.
How to fool a level sensor?
The alternative is to use reusable screw-neck cartridges, where you can screw standard soap bottles, which is an environmentally friendly and economical option, but it requires a certain diameter bottle, and thread compatibility is a major consideration when buying such adapters.
Problems with the supply of soap and their solution
Even after the cartridge is replaced correctly, the dispenser can malfunction. The most common problem is clogging the outlet. The soap foam, when it dries, forms a hard crust that blocks the outlet. To solve this problem, remove the nose (if the design allows), or simply rinse the top with warm water, actively pressing the sensor to pump water through the system.
The second common problem is suffocation, and if there's an air bubble in the tube, the pump will go idle, and to fix that, flip the dispenser upside down and press it a few times until the fluid comes out of the tube without the bubbles, and check if the silicone tube inside the casing is bent.
If the dispenser is buzzing but the soap is not giving out, maybe the battery is dead. Weak charge to create the pressure necessary to lift the liquid. Use high-quality alkaline batteries like AA, because lithium batteries can have a different voltage, which will lead to electronic error.
- 🚿 Wash the nose with warm water to remove dried soap.
- 💨 Blow the system or flip the device to remove air traffic jams.
- 🔋 Replace batteries with new alkaline batteries at the first sign of weak supply.
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90% of soap problems are solved by simply washing the nose with warm water and replacing the batteries with fresh ones.
Setting up intervals and caring for the device
Modern Xiaomi dispensers allow you to adjust feed intervals and portion size. This usually uses a hidden button or a combination of buttons. For example, a five-click button can switch portion volume modes, as indicated by the color indicator. Adjusting the supply volume helps save consumables and prolong the life of the cartridge.
Care for the dispenser is not limited to replacing soaps. Every 2-3 months, it is recommended to completely disassemble the device and wash all parts in contact with the liquid with warm water, this will prevent the reproduction of bacteria and the formation of mold inside the tank, which is especially important for wet bathrooms.
If you're away for a long time, it's better to remove the cartridge or the batteries. Long-term soap can thicken or dry, which requires a complex process to restore the pump to work. Regular use is the best way to keep the device working.