Step-by-step installation of Donner touchless dispenser

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Step-by-step installation of the contactless dispenser Donner

A contactless soap dispenser may look like a simple device at first glance – you buy it, stick it, fill it, and you're done. In practice, it is, but only if you know what you're doing. Over the years of selling and installing these devices, I've seen dozens of cases where a customer called saying that their dispenser "doesn't detect the hand," "drips onto the countertop," or "detaches from the wall by itself" – and in most cases, it was an installation error, not a product defect. This article will walk you through the entire process from the packaging to the first dispensing, in such detail that you won't find yourself in a similar situation.

We will focus specifically on models from the Donner contactless dispenser line, as these are characterized by several structural specifics – for example, different mounting methods depending on the surface, different sensor placement depending on the version (gel vs. liquid soap), and an optional drip tray. We will take all of these into account.

What you will need before the actual installation

Good installation starts with preparation. Nothing is worse than having the dispenser half-stuck and realizing you don't have the right tool with you. So prepare the following items in advance:

Donner dispenser itself – check the contents of the package right after unpacking (see the next section)
3M double-sided mounting tape – Donner usually includes it in the package, but if not, use at least 3M VHB tape of width 19–25 mm with a load capacity of over 3 kg
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or a wax-free cleaning spray – for degreasing the surface before gluing
Clean microfiber cloth – for cleaning the surface
Pencil or waterproof marker – for marking the position
Level (even a small one, 20 cm is enough) – for even installation; leveling the dispenser affects the proper emptying of the tank
Tape measure or folding rule – for measuring the height and distance from the edge of the sink
AA or AAA batteries (depends on the model) – have them ready in advance, not when the dispenser is already on the wall
Soap or gel – the correct type for the given model (more on that below)

If you are installing the Donner MOUNT Black without drip tray model, keep in mind that this model has a slightly different mounting system – the rear strip is installed separately, and the body of the dispenser is slid onto it. This is an advantage in terms of service, but it requires precise placement of the strip during installation.

Package content check – what should be in the box

Before you pick up anything to stick on the wall, carefully check the contents of the package. This is especially important if you received the product by mail – damage during transport is rare, but not impossible. Donner dispensers typically include:

Dispenser body (with integrated or removable tank)
Back mounting panel or self-adhesive tape (depends on the model)
Batteries (not always, depends on the version and distributor)
Short installation manual (usually in multiple languages)
Drip tray (only on models with a drip tray)
USB cable (only on USB versions)

Practical warning: for the Donner MIST (Liquid) White and Donner MIST (Gel) White models, the dispensing nozzle is shaped differently – the gel version has a wider nozzle, while the liquid version has a narrower nozzle. Never swap nozzles between models or mix soap types that the dispenser is not designed for. This can clog the pump.

Choosing the right installation location – that's the foundation of everything

Most of the problems customers report stem from poor location choice. The Donner dispenser is designed for installation on a vertical smooth surface – ceramic tile, glass, polished stainless steel, laminate, or smooth painted plaster. On rough stucco plaster, porous surfaces, or wood with a pronounced texture, the self-adhesive tape won't hold – in such cases, an alternative mounting with screws is necessary (if the model allows for additional mounting holes).

Ideal installation height is 90–110 cm from the floor for an adult user. If the dispenser is primarily used by children, lower it to 75–85 cm. Height is only a recommendation, but it has a practical reach – the dispenser's sensor is calibrated to detect a hand at a distance of 5–10 cm from the nozzle, and incorrect height can cause water or the sink surface to "trigger the dispenser" unnecessarily.

Distance from the edge of the sink: The recommended minimum distance from the back edge of the sink basin is 8–12 cm. If the dispenser is too far back, the soap will fall outside the sink. If it is too far forward and low, the sensitive IR sensor may react to water surfaces or glossy porcelain basin.

Lateral position: The dispenser should be placed next to the sink, not directly behind it. Water vapor from running water can damage the electronics over time, even if the device is constructed with some resistance to moisture.

Surface preparation – the most important step people skip

I repeat this with every order and customers still don't believe me until the dispenser falls into the sink after a week: surface preparation is more important than the actual gluing. Double-sided 3M tape holds on a clean degreased surface for years. On a surface with soap deposits, silicone residue, wax, or oily paint, it will come off within a month, sometimes even sooner.

Surface preparation steps:

Step 1 – rough cleaning: If there is visible limescale, streaks, or old silicone on the surface, remove it mechanically (with a scraper or a stiff sponge). Always clean dirt before applying IPA, not the other way around.
Step 2 – degreasing with IPA: Apply isopropyl alcohol to a microfiber cloth (not directly on the wall – it might drip into the gap) and thoroughly wipe the mounting area. Let it dry for 60 seconds – this is the minimum. IPA with a concentration of 70% or higher works reliably; lower concentrations are less effective.
Step 3 – surface inspection: Gently run your finger over the cleaned area. It must not feel greasy or dusty. If it does, repeat the degreasing.
Step 4 – let the surface dry: Wait at least 2–3 minutes before gluing, longer in a cold bathroom. A wet or cold surface significantly reduces the adhesion of the 3M tape.

Practical tip: with new bathroom tiling with glaze, let the grout dry for at least 24–48 hours before installation. Chemicals in the grout can react with the tape adhesive and reduce its effectiveness.

Installation of the rear strip or self-adhesive base – depends on the model

Donner dispensers are installed in two ways depending on the model:

Type A – direct mounting via tape: The back of the dispenser body has an integrated area with a self-adhesive protective film. This method is faster, but the dispenser body cannot be easily removed without peeling the tape (or the risk of damaging the tape during refilling, if the tank is non-detachable).

Type B – mounting via a rear strip (Donner MOUNT system): First, you stick or screw a thin rear strip to the wall, and the dispenser body is slid into/locked onto it. This solution is advantageous because you can easily remove the dispenser to refill the soap without moving the tape. If you are unsure about the mounting type of your model, check the included manual or visit the page Donner MOUNT without drip Black, where these details are shown.

Steps for installing the rear strip (Type B):

Place the strip on the surface in the desired position and mark its outline (or at least the top and bottom edges) with a pencil or marker.
Cut the tape to the required length (usually two strips of about 5 cm each).
Stick the tape to the back of the strip – NOT on the wall. You can place the tape more precisely on the strip than if you were gluing it directly to the wall.
Peel off the protective film from the other side of the tape, place the strip on the marked position, and press firmly for 30–60 seconds along the entire length. Don't hold it with just one finger – the pressure must be even across the entire surface of the tape.
Let the tape activate for at least 15–30 minutes at room temperature before hanging a filled (i.e., heavy) dispenser on the strip. Most 3M tapes reach full load capacity only after 24 hours.

Inserting batteries and first power-on

The battery cover is usually located on the back or bottom part of the dispenser – depending on the model. For some variants of Donner MIST, you can access it by removing the body of the dispenser from the rail, which is another argument in favor of mounting via the rear rail (Type B). Procedure:

Open the battery cover (usually slides or pops open after pressing a tab).
Insert the batteries according to polarity (+ and – must match the markings in the compartment). The negative side of the battery goes to the spring.
Close the cover – it should snap shut. If it doesn't snap, check whether the battery is inserted at an angle or whether the cover is deformed.
Wait 3–5 seconds – the dispenser should emit a short init signal (LED flash or silent beep, depending on the model).

If the dispenser does not respond after inserting the batteries, check the contacts (they may be oxidized in long-stored batteries) and make sure the batteries are charged. A classic, tested scenario: the customer claims the dispenser is not working. After replacing the "new" batteries from a depleted pack with a truly charged pair – it works immediately. Alkaline AA batteries (Varta, Duracell, Energizer) will last in the dispenser under normal use (10–20 doses per day) for 3–6 months.

Filling the tank – type of soap, volume and correct procedure

This is the point where many users make a mistake. Donner touch-free dispensers use a precise pump with a small nozzle – the pump must be designed for the viscosity of a specific soap. That is why there are two different versions:

Liquid Version (e.g. Donner MIST (Liquid) Bílý) – intended for liquid soaps with lower viscosity, common bathroom liquid soaps, antibacterial aqueous preparations. Do not use thick gel-like preparations – they will clog the pump.
Gel Version (e.g. Donner MIST (Gel) Bílý) – designed for disinfecting gels, more viscous alcohol-based preparations, thicker soap gels. This version has a stronger pump and a larger diameter output channel.

Correct tank filling:

Remove the body of the dispenser from the rail or open the tank lid (depends on the construction).
Pour the soap slowly, without creating foam. Foam in the tank causes uneven dosing.
Do not exceed the MAX mark – overfilling may cause the soap to leak around the pump seal. Tank capacity is usually 250–350 ml; more on this topic can be found in the article Tank capacity and dosing capacity – what to watch out for in our Knowledge Center.
Before the first use, let the pump draw the soap from the tank – place your hand several times in succession until the dispenser starts delivering a consistent dose. The first 1–3 activations may be "empty" or air – this is normal for a new, empty pump.
Secure the tank cover to prevent corrosion and minimize contamination.

Calibration of the sensor and setting the dose amount

After the first filling and turning on, it is advisable to check whether the sensor is responding correctly and whether the appropriate dose size is set. Most Donner models allow you to choose from 2–3 levels of dose size via a physical button on the device or automatic calibration.

Typical dose settings:

Small dose (0.8–1.0 ml): For daily hand washing, mild soaps. Saves tank content.
Medium dose (1.5–1.8 ml): Standard setting for most uses.
Large dose (2.5–3.0 ml): For disinfecting gels or areas with higher hygiene standards (kitchen, areas after working with clay, workshops, etc.).

The sensor reacts to hand movement at a distance of usually 5–10 cm directly under the nozzle. If the dispenser reacts to surrounding objects (reflection from the sink, surrounding items), try reducing the sensor sensitivity (if the model allows it), or change the placement so that only free space is in the direct line of the sensor above the sink.

First days after installation – what to watch out for

After installation, let the tape activate – ideally 24 hours without load. During this time, leave the dispenser in place, but fill it with soap only after this period has passed. The 3M VHB adhesive reaches 50% of its final strength within an hour, full strength usually after 24 hours at room temperature (20–22 °C). In cold bathrooms (below 18 °C), activation may take longer.

The first doses may be uneven or slightly diluted – the pump is "warming up". If after 10 doses it still delivers inconsistent amounts, check whether there is an air block in the dosing tube. Usually, it is enough to gently tilt the dispenser body forward and activate it several times – the air will be released.

I also recommend checking after the first 48 hours whether the tape holds firmly during installation. Gently pull the body downward (not a peeling motion, just a load test). If you feel movement or creaking, the tape is not holding properly and it is necessary to remove the rail and repeat the procedure. It is better to find out now than when the tank is full.

Mounting the no-drip version – specifics and common mistakes

The model Donner MOUNT bez odkapu Černý is designed so that the nozzle does not drip after dispensing. This is solved by a return suction mechanism in the pump, which draws the remaining soap back into the channel after each activation. For proper function, it is therefore important:

Never mount the dispenser at an angle – it must be vertical. If it is tilted forward or backward by more than 3–5°, the return mechanism will not function properly and soap will drip.
Use only the recommended type of soap – overly thick soap leaves residue in the channel, which will later drip even with a properly functioning mechanism.
Occasionally clean the nozzle with a damp cloth – if soap settles on it and hardens, it can clog the outlet and cause pressure buildup and dripping during the next activation.

Learn more about the principle and benefits of this technology in the article Soap dispenser with no dripping – when is it worth it and how does it work? in our Knowledge Center.

Complete installation process – a brief summary in steps

Unpack and check the contents of the package – all components must be present and undamaged.
Choose the correct location – height 90–110 cm, at least 8 cm from the edge of the sink, and away from direct steam from water.
Wipe the surface with IPA – thoroughly, and let it dry for 2–3 minutes.
Stick the back strip or dispenser – apply the tape to the device, not the wall; press evenly for 30–60 seconds.
Wait for the tape to activate – wait at least 15–30 minutes before applying weight, ideally 24 hours.
Insert batteries – correct polarity, fully charged alkaline AA/AAA batteries.
Fill the tank with the correct type of soap – do not exceed MAX, do not put gel into the liquid version and vice versa.
Activate several times without soap – until the pump starts delivering a consistent dose.
Set the dose size – according to your needs and preferences.
Check after 48 hours – the strip's firmness, the uniformity of dosing, and the sensor's function.

What to do if the installation fails – disassembly and reinstallation

It happens. The strip slips by a centimeter, the dispenser is tilted, or after cleaning the bathroom with chemical products, the tape loosens. In any case, the rule applies: remove it carefully. Forceful peeling may damage the tiles, scratch the glaze, or remove the paint.

Safe disassembly of the 3M tape:

Gently heat the tape with a hair dryer (not direct flames!) to about 40–50 °C for 30 seconds – heat softens the acrylic adhesive.
Using a thread (dental floss is ideal), slowly "saw" the tape with horizontal movements – the thread cuts through the adhesive layer under pressure.
Remove any remaining adhesive with IPA or a special adhesive remover (e.g., 3M Adhesive Remover).
Let the surface dry again and repeat the entire surface preparation process from the beginning.

Common problems and their solutions are discussed in detail in the article Common faults of touchless dispensers and their solutions in our Knowledge Center – including scenarios when the dispenser reacts too quickly, too slowly, or not at all.

Most frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I screw the Donner dispenser instead of gluing it, if I don't like the tape?

It depends on the specific model. Some models from the Donner MOUNT line have additional holes on the back strip for mounting screws – in such cases, yes. Check the included manual or the product page. If the strip does not have anchoring holes, screwing into it is not recommended – you may damage the strip's structure and lose the warranty. A standard 3M VHB tape, when applied correctly on a clean surface, holds a load of 4–5 kg, which is more than enough for a filled dispenser (0.5–0.8 kg) with a large margin.

Can I pour disinfectant gel into the liquid version?

No, and this is one of the most common mistakes. The liquid version has a smaller diameter dosing channel and a weaker pump, not designed for viscous products. Thick gels clog the pump and can permanently damage the motor. The Gel version is intended for disinfectant gels – for example, Donner MIST (Gel) Bílý. Learn more about the differences between versions in the article Touchless gel dispenser vs. liquid soap dispenser – which is better? in our Knowledge Center.

Why does the dispenser activate soap even when no one is near it?

The most common cause is reflection of IR radiation from a shiny surface of the sink, mirror, or chrome faucet. The sensor sees its own reflection and interprets it as a hand. Solution: move the dispenser to a location where the sensor does not point directly at a shiny object, or reduce the sensor sensitivity (if the model allows this setting). Another possibility is strong sunlight from the side – IR radiation from the sun can interfere with the sensor. In such cases, moving the dispenser or using blinds helps.

How long do the batteries last and how do I know when to replace them?

Alkaline AA batteries last 3 to 6 months with normal use (10–20 activations per day). When the capacity drops, the dispenser starts delivering smaller, inconsistent doses or the sensor reacts with a delay. Some models blink an LED indicator when battery power is low. We recommend using high-quality alkaline batteries (Varta, Energizer, Duracell) – cheaper no-name batteries may have lower actual capacity and shorter lifespan. If you prefer a rechargeable solution, see the comparison in the article Battery vs. USB power – which version suits you best?.

What to do if the tape loosens and the dispenser falls into the sink?

First, check if the device is mechanically damaged (cracked body, broken nozzle). If it looks fine, remove the batteries and let the dispenser dry for at least 24–48 hours at room temperature – never use a hot air gun directly on the electronics. After drying, insert fresh batteries and test. If it works, you can remount it (with thorough surface preparation). If it doesn't work, contact the seller regarding the warranty. Always thoroughly investigate the reason for the tape loosening before reinstallation – it may be due to a dirty surface, incorrect tape type, or the use of a chemical cleaner that damaged the adhesive.

Is it possible to move the dispenser to another location after it has been mounted?

Yes, it is possible, but the dismount is one-time – the 3M tape deforms when peeled off and loses most of its adhesion, so it cannot be reused. When moving, you will need a new tape. If you expect to move the dispenser, choose a model with mounting via the back strip (Type B) – you stick the strip once, and if you want to move the dispenser, you remove the entire strip, not just the body. Alternatively, consider a model without adhesive mounting if your bathroom allows it.

Conclusion

Mounting a touchless Donner dispenser is not a complicated operation, but it requires attention at every step – from choosing the location through surface preparation to proper filling and calibration. The biggest mistake is rushing. Removing the 3M tape, pulling the strip from a cracked tile, and repeating the entire process takes five times longer than doing it right the first time.

If you are unsure which model to choose before installation, read the article How to choose a touchless soap dispenser for your bathroom or Donner line: overview of models and their differences in our Knowledge Center – these will help you distinguish which version best suits your conditions, whether it's a bathroom, kitchen, or commercial space.

Do you have a question about this topic?

Not sure or dealing with a specific situation in your home? Write to us – we're happy to help.