Dropping your phone in water can be a panic-inducing moment, especially considering the significant role smartphones play in our daily lives. Whether it’s a sink, a toilet, a puddle, or even a swimming pool, the moment your phone takes an unexpected plunge, it’s crucial to act quickly to increase the chances of saving it from water damage. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of what to do if you drop your phone in water, the common mistakes to avoid, and some preventive measures you can take to protect your phone from future water-related mishaps.
How to Fix Your Water-Damaged Phone?
Retrieve the Phone Immediately
If your phone falls into water, attempt to retrieve it as soon as possible. The longer it is immersed, the more likely it will be damaged. Move quickly, but don’t panic, because staying cool will help you recall the measures to take.
Turn Off the Phone
Once you’ve had the phone in your hands, resist the desire to check to see if it’s still on. Instead, if it isn’t already turned off, turn it off right away. Avoid using the phone or hitting any buttons, as these might result in short circuits and severe damage to the internal components.
Get Rid of Excess Water
Gently shake the phone to remove any excess water from the exterior. Use a soft, dry cloth or absorbent material to pat it dry. Avoid using a hairdryer or any other source of heat, as this can lead to overheating and additional harm.
Disassemble if Possible
If you have previous experience with phone disassembly and your phone enables it, remove the battery, SIM card, and any other detachable parts. This procedure can assist prevent water from entering the internal circuits and corroding them. If you are unsure about dismantling the phone, skip this step and continue with the other ways.
Use Desiccants
Desiccants, such as silica gel packets or uncooked rice, can be used to absorb moisture from your phone. Place the phone in a container with a desiccant and carefully shut it. Allow it to sit in the container for at least 24 to 48 hours to allow the desiccant to absorb moisture.
Try Vacuum Method
Using a vacuum cleaner to remove water from the phone can assist. A ordinary household vacuum, on the other hand, may create static electricity. Instead, use a specialist vacuum cleaner made for electronics or consult with a professional technician.
Consider Drying Bags or Kits
Several firms provide phone drying bags or kits that employ a vacuum and desiccants. These items might be a quick and easy solution to save your phone from water damage.
Avoid Common Myths
There are various myths and unproven methods circulating on the internet about drying wet phones, such as using a microwave or oven. These methods can be dangerous and can cause irreparable damage to your device. Stick to the safe and proven techniques mentioned in this guide.
Seek Professional Help
If you are not confident in handling the water damage on your own or if your efforts do not yield positive results, it’s best to seek professional help. Take your phone to an authorized service center or a skilled technician who specializes in phone repairs. They have the expertise and tools to assess the damage and perform necessary repairs.
Preventive Measures
- Consider investing in a high-quality waterproof phone case, especially if you know you’ll be in situations where water exposure is more likely.
- Use waterproof pouches to store your phone when participating in water-related activities such as swimming or water sports.
- When using your phone near water, such as sinks, baths, or pools, use caution. To avoid unintentional drops, avoid texting or using your phone when strolling near bodies of water.
- Regularly back up your phone’s data to a cloud storage service or a computer.
