How to refuel Xiaomi dispenser for liquid: the complete guide

Xiaomi’s modern home gadgets have long since ceased to be mere toys, becoming indispensable assistants, one of which is the automatic soap dispenser. This compact device, often called the Mijia Automatic Induction Soap Dispenser, greatly simplifies hygiene procedures and adds aesthetics to the interior of the bathroom or kitchen. However, like any such gadget, it requires periodic maintenance, namely, replacement of content.

Many users are faced with the question of whether you can use third-party tools or you need to buy only original cartridges. The answer lies in the design of the device, which was originally designed for branded interchangeable units, but with proper skill and accuracy allows you to use conventional liquids. It is important to understand that the filling process requires care so as not to damage sensitive electronics and dosing mechanism.

In this article, we will take a closer look at all the nuances of using a smart dispenser, look at the types of fluids that are suitable for use, and give you a step-by-step algorithm of actions. You will learn how to extend the life of the device and avoid common errors that often lead to breakages or leaks.

Design features and working principle

Xiaomi's smart dispenser is powered by an infrared sensor that responds to the palm in range, and inside the body is a small motor that drives a pump that pumps fluid through a tube, and the key element is a neck that is sealed by a mechanism lid, and that's where it's most difficult to try to refuel yourself.

The original model often comes with a removable cartridge, which is a sealed soap container. When the liquid runs out, the user unscrews the old unit and screws in the new one. However, the thread and valve design allows you to carefully open the used cartridge or find a compatible counterpart. The main technical feature of the original cartridges is the presence of a special valve that prevents the fluid from leaking out when inverted, which is critical for the dispenser to work upside down.

Using an inappropriate liquid, such as a too thick gel or a product with large abrasive particles, can lead to clogging of the tube or failure of the pump. The mechanism is designed for a certain viscosity, and deviation from the norm creates an extra load on the engine. So before you pour a new tool, you should make sure that it is consistent.

Choosing the Right Filler

The first and most important step before refueling is choosing the right liquid. Not every liquid soap is suitable for Xiaomi automatic dispensers. The ideal option is a medium-viscosity tool that easily passes through thin tubes. If you decide to use a thick gel, it may need to be diluted with water, but you need to do it carefully so as not to disturb the chemical composition and preservation of the product.

There are three main types of fillers that users consider:

• 🧴 Original replacement blocks – guarantee perfect work, but have a high cost and form plastic garbage.
• 🧼 Ordinary liquid soap is an economical option that requires washing the system and possible adjustment of viscosity.
• 💧 Alcohol-based disinfectants - require special care, since alcohol can damage seals and plastic parts of the mechanism.

When choosing a tool, pay attention to the presence of large particles, scrubbing elements or sequins. Such additives are categorically not suitable for automatic dispensers, as they instantly clog the feed valve, and you should avoid products with a high content of oils, which can eventually destroy the rubber seals inside the pump.

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If you use a regular liquid soap, try diluting it with distilled water in a 1:5 ratio first, which will reduce the viscosity and reduce the load on the dispenser motor.

Preparation for the refuelling process

Before you start directly replacing the contents, you need to prepare the workplace and tools. You will need the dispenser itself, a new liquid, perhaps a syringe or funnel for a neat bay, and wipes to remove spilled drops. It is recommended to carry out all manipulations over the sink to avoid contamination of the floor or furniture.

It is important to ensure good lighting, as the internal parts of the device are small and may not be visible. If you plan to use a non-original liquid, prepare a container of warm water to wash the system in advance, which will help remove the remnants of old soap that may have dried up and turned into a viscous mass.

For ease of comparison of characteristics of different types of fillers, consider them in the table:

Step-by-step: Replacement of the cartridge

If you use original supplies, the process is as simple as possible and takes seconds: turn the dispenser upside down and hold firmly on the bottom of the body; the top unit with the motor must be carefully twisted counterclockwise; don't put too much effort into it, the thread is plastic and can burst when you jerk.

Once you unscrew the unit, you'll see an empty cartridge that needs to be disposed of. Take a new sealed cartridge, remove the protective film (if any) from it, and gently screw it into the back of the engine unit. Make sure the sealing ring is flat and not clamped. Then screw the assembled structure back into the main tank to the end.

After assembly, it may take a few taps (or hand-plugs) to fill the system with fluid and start to feed foam. If after 5-7 attempts the soap does not go, check if you have forgotten to remove the protective membrane from the new cartridge.

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When replacing the cartridge, always keep the dispenser upright or upside down to avoid air entering the feed system, which can cause the pump to suffocate.

How to fill the dispenser with ordinary soap

For those who want to save money or can't find original cartridges, there's a method of filling with a regular liquid, which requires more care. First, you need to free the case from the old cartridge, and if you have an empty original bottle, you can reuse it, but you have to carefully cut the top with the thread and valve.

Cut the top of the cartridge with a sharp blade or scissors strictly along the shoulder line, trying not to damage the thread. After that, thoroughly rinse the insides of the bottle with warm water, removing all the remnants of the old soap. Pour the prepared liquid soap inside, trying not to pour to the edges - leave about 5-10 mm of air to create the necessary pressure. Then carefully install the cut valve lid back into place, ensuring the tightness of the connection.

There is a risk that a homemade stub can let air through or not open when the pump is running. Some users use a food film or a thin rubber membrane between the main part of the lid and the neck to improve leakage, but this approach requires individual fit and does not guarantee durability.

⚠️ Attention! When you open the cartridge yourself, you lose the warranty on the device, and in addition, poor sealing can lead to leakage of soap inside the case, which will cause short circuit and irreversible failure of the electronics.

Elimination and maintenance

In the process of operation, you may encounter a situation where the Xiaomi dispenser begins to work unstable, a common problem is a weak head or no fluid supply at all with the engine running, which often indicates that the tube has formed an air traffic jam or dried residues of soap blocked the channel.

To clean, remove the top with the motor and lower the suction tube into a container of warm water. Run the dispenser several times until the tube is clean water without bubbles. If the problem is not solved, you may need a more thorough washing using a weak solution of citric acid, which will help dissolve the mineral deposits.

Regular maintenance extends the life of the device. Every 2-3 months, it is recommended to completely empty the tank and flush the system, even if you use original cartridges. This will prevent the crystallization of the soap solution on the tube walls and valves. Also remember to wipe the sensor with dry cloth, as contamination can reduce its sensitivity.

⚠️ Attention, never immerse the top of the electronics and motor dispenser in the water completely, and only the removable tube and the outer surfaces can be washed, avoiding moisture from the contacts of the battery compartment.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions