Where to pour water into the robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi Mi: Full instructions

Owners of modern cleaning devices often wonder where exactly to pour water into the Xiaomi Mi robot vacuum cleaner to avoid damaging the electronics. This is a really important point, since the design of different Xiaomi models can differ significantly. Some devices have a built-in tank, while others require the installation of a separate detergent module. An error in determining the location for the liquid can lead to the failure of expensive equipment, so you need to clearly understand the design of your gadget.

Before you start operating, it is important to determine whether your model supports wet cleaning. Not all Xiaomi robots are equipped with a water supply system, and trying to pour liquid into a regular dust container will turn into a breakdown. In this article, we will discuss in detail all the nuances, types of tanks and step-by-step algorithm for various modifications, you will learn how to properly maintain the detergent module and avoid common errors during refueling.

⚠️ Warning: Never pour water into a dust collection hole or directly onto the main motor brush unless you have a removable wet cleaning unit.

Determining the type of design of your device

The first step to successful wet cleaning is to understand what kind of device you are dealing with. Xiaomi’s vacuum cleaner robots fall into two main categories by type of water interaction: built-in tank models and removable module models. In the first case, the water tank is already integrated into the housing and accessed through a special cover. In the second, you need to remove the dust container and install a separate unit with a cloth in its place.

So, to be sure, you just have to visually look at the bottom of the device, and if you see a flat platform with a rag mount, but without a towering bunker, you need a separate module, and if you have a hatch that says Water Tank or a drop symbol, the water is poured in.

Many users confuse conventional dust tanks with water tanks because of their similar appearance. However, the water tank always has a rubber cap or valve through which the bay flows. The garbage container does not have such a component, it opens completely to rash the contents. Careful study of the markings at the bottom of the device will help avoid fatal errors.

πŸ“Š What type of robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi?
With a built-in water tank.
With a separate washing unit
Dry cleaning only (without tank)
I don't know, I need to check.

Instructions for models with built-in tank

If you're in a series with an integrated tank, the refueling process is as simple as possible. Usually, these devices have a 2-in-1 combined tank, where one compartment is for dust and the other for liquid. To get to the right hole, you need to flip the robot over or open the top cover, depending on the design of the particular Roborock or Mijia series.

Find a rubber cap that is often marked with blue or a drop icon, which can be on the side of the tank or on the end of the tank. Bend the valve carefully, without undue effort, so as not to damage the silicone. This is the opening where you pour the prepared water. Once filled, close the cap tightly until you click, ensuring that it is tight.

β˜‘οΈ Algorithm of filling the built-in tank

Done: 0 / 5

There is an important caveat: the liquid level should not exceed the mark Max. Overflow can lead to the fact that when installing the tank water will get into electronic contacts. In addition, some models are equipped with a smart dosing system that is sensitive to water quality, so using distilled or filtered liquid will prolong the life of the pump.

Use of a removable detergent

Devices that don't have a built-in tank require a module, a separate plastic unit that is purchased separately or bundled with top-end models, where, unlike embedded systems, water is poured into the module body itself through the top hole covered by the lid, and these tanks often have the option of installing an electric pump to wet more efficiently.

The installation process is simple: first, a standard dust collection container is removed from the main body, a wet cleaning module is inserted into its place before the click, and it is important to make sure that the module is securely fixed, otherwise the sensors may not recognize its presence, and the robot will not start the washing mode. Once installed, the robot is put on a microfiber cloth that is attached to Velcros or special clips.

⚠️ Warning: When installing a removable module, make sure the electrical contacts on the tank are dry.

Some users prefer to use mechanically adjusted water tanks, with wetting levels regulated by a special wheel or slider on the tank body, which allows cleaning to be tailored to the flooring type: less water for laminate and more for tile. Mechanical tanks are cheaper than electric ones, but require more frequent checks on the condition of the rag.

Difference between Electric and Mechanical Tanks
The Smart Water Tank is controlled through an app and has a pump that only delivers water when the robot is moving. The mechanical tanks use capillary effects or gravity, which can lead to puddles when simply placed in one place. The electric option is preferable for mixed coatings.

Requirements for water quality and solution preparation

The quality of the liquid used directly affects the durability of the spray system. The manufacturer strongly recommends against using tap water, as the hardness salts and chlorine contained in it quickly disable the filters and clog the micro-channels of the pump. Scale formed inside the tank is difficult to remove, and it can cause engine failure.

The ideal solution is to use distilled water or water after passing through a reverse osmosis filter. If you plan to add a detergent, it should be specifically designed for robotic vacuum cleaners. Conventional floorwashing gels create abundant foam that can disrupt fluid level sensors and get inside the robot body.

Water temperature also matters. You should not pour hot liquid, as this can deform the plastic elements of the tank and damage the seals. The optimal temperature is room temperature, in the range of 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. Observing these simple rules will help avoid expensive repairs.

Table of compatibility and characteristics of tanks

To make it easier for you to navigate the variety of models and types of tanks, we have prepared a summary table that will help you determine what type of tank is suitable for your series of devices and what features of operation should be considered.

Model robot.Type of tankVolume of water (ml)Features
Xiaomi Vacuum Mop 2Electronic (2-in-1)200Adjustment through the annex
Roborock S5 MaxEmbedded electronics290Precise flow control
Mijia 1CMechanical (separate)200Installation of the module is required
Viomi V2Combined180Y-track

And you can see from the table that the volume of the tanks varies, which affects the area of reclaimed area without refueling. Electronically controlled models allow more economical use of water by pulses. Mechanical systems are easier to maintain, but require careful choice of wetting mode.

πŸ’‘

The use of distilled water increases the life of pumps and sprayers by 3-4 times compared to tap water.

Setting up wetting levels in the app

Once you have figured out where to put water in the Xiaomi Mi robot vacuum cleaner, you need to adjust the cleaning intensity. Modern models allow you to control the fluid supply level through the Mi Home or Xiaomi Home application. You need to find the section responsible for cleaning and select the Water Flow or Water Level option from the device menu.

There are usually three or four modes available: low, medium, high and sometimes smart. Low is suitable for light dust and delicate coatings. Medium is for daily maintenance cleaning. High is used for the removal of old stains, but it should be used with caution on wooden floors.

In some advanced models, automatic lifting of the cloth is available when entering the carpet. This function requires that the application be activated in the appropriate mode, and the carpet is recognized by sensors. If the robot does not lift the cloth, check the settings in the "Carpet" section and make sure that the action "Raise the cloth" is selected.

⚠️ Warning: Before starting a wet cleaning, be sure to remove wires, socks and other small items from the floor that can get wet and get tangled in the brushes.

Care of water supply system and tanks

Regular maintenance of the detergent is the key to quality cleaning. After each use, it is recommended to drain the remaining water from the tank. Stagnant water is the ideal environment for bacteria to multiply and create an unpleasant odor that will spread throughout the apartment while the robot is working.

Once a week, you should wash the tank with clean water and wipe the inner surface with a soft cloth. Pay special attention to the filter if it is in the design. Clogged filter disrupts air circulation and can lead to improper operation of the level sensors. Dry the tank should be disassembled, leaving the lid open.

It's also worth checking the microfiber cloth periodically, and over time it loses its absorbent properties and wears off. Using a worn cloth will not give a good result and can leave divorces on the floor. Timely replacement of consumables will ensure the perfect cleanliness of your floors.

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If you do not plan to use wet cleaning for a long time (more than 3 days), keep the water tank separate from the robot, completely dry and with the lid open.

Can I put water in a robot if the instructions say "Dry Only"?
No, absolutely not. If the model specifies only dry vacuuming, it means no waterproofing and no water supply system, and if you try to upgrade or use third-party tanks, you will burn the electronics and lose the warranty.
Why did the robot stop supplying water after refueling?
Most likely, the pump's output holes were clogged with salt deposits or an air jam formed in the tank. Try running the pump cleaning cycle (if available on the menu) or gently blowing out the output holes. Also check if the tank lid is tightly closed.
How often should I change the water in the tank?
The water should be changed before each cleaning. Don't leave the water in the tank for storage. If the robot is idle for several days, the tank should be empty and dry to avoid mold and smell.
Can chlorine containing agents be used for disinfection?
The use of aggressive chemicals, including chlorine, is prohibited by the manufacturer. Chlorine destroys rubber seals, tank plastic and can damage flooring. Use only neutral detergents for robotic systems.
What if water is leaking under the robot?
Stop cleaning immediately. Check the integrity of the tank, the density of the plug and the condition of the sealing rubber bands. If the tank is intact and closed correctly, the pump or the inner hose may be defective.