Water damage to a mobile phone is a common occurrence, but it can be a costly one if not addressed properly. Whether it’s a quick dip in the toilet or a full-on plunge in the swimming pool, the steps you take immediately after the incident can make all the difference in saving your device.
Assess the Damage
If it’s still on, turn it off immediately. If it’s off, resist the urge to turn it on. Attempting to turn on a wet phone can cause more damage and make it harder to recover any data. Take off any protective casing and remove the SIM card and battery (if possible). Check for any visible signs of water damage, such as water droplets or condensation inside the screen or camera lens.
Once you’ve assessed the damage, you can take steps to dry your phone. The sooner you can dry your phone, the better your chances of saving it. Never use a hairdryer, oven, or any other heat source, as this can cause further damage to the device – heat is often as dangerous as water for phones. Instead, use a soft, absorbent cloth to gently wipe away any visible water droplets from the phone’s exterior. You can also use a specialised water-damage recovery kit to remove moisture from the phone’s internal components. Remember to be gentle and avoid applying too much pressure, as this can push water deeper into the phone.
Leave It to Dry for 24 Hours
Once you’ve wiped away the visible water, leave your phone to dry for at least 24 hours. Place the phone on a dry surface, like a countertop or table, and let it dry naturally. Resist the urge to check on it constantly or attempt to turn it on until it’s completely dry. You can also put it in a bowl of uncooked rice, as rice is known to absorb moisture. Be patient and give your phone enough time to dry completely.
Test the Phone
After 24 hours, check to see if the phone is completely dry before turning it on. Reinsert the SIM card and battery (if removed) and turn the phone on. If it doesn’t turn on, plug it into a charger and see if it charges. If the phone turns on and works properly, great! If not, there may be more severe water damage that requires professional repair.
If your phone does turn on, make sure to check that all functions are working correctly, including the microphone, speakers, camera, and buttons. You should also check for any residual damage, such as watermarks or corrosion. If you notice any issues, it’s best to take your phone to a professional for assessment and repair. Even if your phone appears to be working correctly, it’s a good idea to back up any important data and files in case of future issues.
Consider Professional Repair
If your phone doesn’t turn on or is not functioning properly after drying it out, it’s time to consider professional repair. Water damage can cause corrosion and short circuits, which can be difficult to repair without the proper tools and expertise. Look for a reputable phone repair shop that specialises in water damage repair. Using repair companies with plenty of experience – such as Likewize Repair – may allow you to salvage your device or retrieve any important data.
It’s important to note that attempting to repair your phone yourself or taking it to an unqualified technician can do more harm than good. Opening your phone without the proper tools or knowledge can cause further damage and even void your warranty. Professional repair may be more expensive, but it’s often worth the cost to avoid further damage and ensure your device is repaired correctly. Some phone manufacturers offer water damage repair as part of their warranty or insurance policies, so check your policy to see if you’re covered.
Prevent Future Damage
The best way to deal with water damage is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Invest in a waterproof phone case, and avoid using your phone near water or in humid environments. If you must use your phone near water, make sure it’s in a protective case and use caution. Don’t take your phone swimming, and avoid using it in the rain or in steamy environments like saunas or hot tubs.
It’s also a good idea to back up your important data and files regularly, so you don’t lose anything if your phone is damaged beyond repair. You can use cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox, or transfer files to an external hard drive or USB stick. Regularly backing up your data can also make it easier to switch to a new device if your phone is irreparably damaged.
Summary
Water damage to a mobile phone can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be a death sentence for your device. If you act quickly and follow these essential steps, you may be able to salvage your phone and save yourself a significant amount of money in repairs or replacements. Remember, prevention is the best cure, so take steps to protect your phone from water damage in the future. With a little caution and care, you can keep your phone safe and dry for years to come.
