Save Your Smartphone From Water Damage - A Guide
Recovering a Water-Damaged Phone: A Step-by-Step Guide
A common misfortune has struck: your phone has become submerged in water, perhaps during a routine task like washing dishes. Water ingress is a leading cause of mobile device failure, but immediate action can significantly improve the chances of recovery.
Initial Response is Crucial
Don't despair if your device has taken an unexpected swim. While a waterlogged phone is a serious issue, it isn't necessarily a death sentence. Swift and correct procedures can often mitigate the damage.
Having personally experienced this issue multiple times – including incidents involving toilets, washing machines, and spilled beverages – I can attest to the importance of a rapid response.
Minimizing Damage and Potential Recovery Time
By adhering to the following guidelines immediately after the phone is exposed to water, you can reduce the likelihood of permanent harm. With proper care, you may have your phone fully functional again within approximately three days.
Here's a breakdown of the key steps to take:
- Immediate Power Off: Turn off the phone immediately. Do not attempt to check if it's working.
- Remove External Components: Take out the SIM card, microSD card, and any cases.
- Dry the Exterior: Gently wipe down the exterior of the phone with a soft, absorbent cloth.
- Avoid Heat: Do not use a hairdryer or place the phone in direct sunlight.
These initial actions are vital for preventing further internal damage caused by short circuits and corrosion.
Initial Action: Battery Removal
Immediately after your phone is exposed to water, the initial action to take is to remove the battery. A phone's internal components can be damaged by water because the battery continues to supply power to the circuits.
This electrical current, when combined with water acting as a conductor, causes short circuits.
Additionally, any accessories obstructing water drainage should be disconnected. This includes removing the SIM card, SD card, and any connected headphones.
If your device features a non-removable battery, proceed to the subsequent step without delay.
Immediate Action: Powering Down Your Device
When a smartphone encounters water, swift action is paramount. Do not delay; every moment counts in mitigating potential damage.
The longer the device remains powered on after water exposure, the higher the probability of irreversible harm to its internal components.
Why Immediate Shutdown is Crucial
Turn off your phone immediately using the power button. Confirm that the device is completely powered down before proceeding to the subsequent steps.
This initial step is arguably the most important, as it prevents short circuits and further corrosion within the phone’s circuitry.
Disassembling the Phone: A Detailed Approach
Should you lack confidence in performing a phone disassembly yourself, proceed directly to step 4. It’s perfectly acceptable to seek professional assistance.
However, for those experienced in smartphone repair, such as individuals who have frequently replaced iPhone screens, opening the device may be a familiar process. Begin by removing the screws securing the backplate and carefully exposing the logic board.
Important Note: Opening your iPhone will invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty. If your device is covered by an extended protection plan, it is advisable to avoid self-repair.
iPhones are designed with a convenient feature allowing the primary connectors linking the logic board and the battery to be detached with a single, fluid movement.
This simplifies the process of isolating the battery and assessing potential water damage.
Utilizing Compressed Air for Thorough Cleaning
Whether your mobile device remains intact or has been disassembled, the subsequent step in this procedure centers around employing compressed air to meticulously cleanse all accessible areas.
Should the phone be opened, direct the airflow towards the logic board, the space between the screen and the battery. For devices that remain sealed, apply bursts of air through any available openings in the casing, such as speaker grills, the microphone port, the charging connector, and the earpiece.
Particular attention should be given to the charging port during this phase. Its location provides close access to the battery compartment and allows for maximum maneuverability of the compressed air nozzle.
Moving the nozzle from side to side within the port ensures comprehensive removal of debris.
Utilizing a Hair Dryer as an Alternative
In situations where compressed air isn't readily available, a hair dryer can serve as a viable substitute. However, it's crucial to maintain the settings on a cool air-only configuration; avoid any heat settings entirely.
Although it might seem paradoxical, rapidly increasing the temperature of any moisture within the device can lead to component expansion. This can also cause steam to accumulate in sensitive areas.
Why Cool Air is Essential
- Preventing Swelling: Quick heating can cause internal parts to swell.
- Avoiding Steam Buildup: Steam released in the wrong locations can cause further damage.
Therefore, employing cool air is the safest method for dislodging water without exacerbating the potential for internal harm. It's advisable to keep a supply of compressed air for such emergencies, but a cool-setting hair dryer offers a practical alternative.
Submersion in Drying Agents: Rice, Quinoa, or Couscous
We now arrive at arguably the most crucial stage in the recovery process. Regardless of prior attempts – whether utilizing compressed air, a hairdryer, or battery removal – immersing the device in a drying agent offers the greatest potential for successful restoration.
Editor's Note: The effectiveness of this method stems from the hygroscopic properties of these grains, acting as mild desiccants. They draw moisture from the surrounding air, and consequently, from within the phone itself. For a more potent and reliable solution, consider an iFixit Thirsty Bag, designed for rapid moisture extraction.
Typically found in most kitchens, approximately 0.23 to 0.45 kilograms of rice is required for optimal results. Begin by removing the rice from its original packaging and transferring it to an airtight container.
Subsequently, fully submerge the affected phone within the rice – couscous and quinoa have also been reported as viable alternatives. Secure the container's lid, ensuring any trapped air is released. This creates a vacuum effect, enhancing the absorption of moisture from the phone into the surrounding grains.
Following submersion, a waiting period of at least 72 hours is essential before attempting to power on the device.
While some recommend a shorter duration of 36 hours, testing indicates that extended waiting significantly increases the likelihood of a successful recovery and minimizes the risk of data loss.
This phase demands considerable patience and perseverance, but the potential reward of a fully functional device justifies the wait.
The Final Stage: Anticipation and Activation
After the three-day waiting period concludes, retrieve the phone from its protective enclosure. Meticulously inspect all components of the device to confirm the complete absence of remaining moisture.
This inspection may involve a gentle downward shake to dislodge any water potentially trapped within the charging port or speaker openings. Once dryness is verified, reinsert the battery, and with a hopeful outlook, press the power button.
Should the process have been successful, the phone should restart normally, effectively erasing the incident as if it never occurred.
A Proactive Measure: Investing in Water Resistance for Your Phone
Protecting your phone from water damage is crucial, especially if it has already been compromised or recently recovered. Considering a water-resistant or waterproof phone should be a priority to prevent future incidents.
For further information, explore our comprehensive guide: What's the Best Way to Waterproof My Phone?
A waterproof case offers a simple solution, but additional preventative measures are also available. It’s recommended to thoroughly review our detailed article on waterproofing your existing phone before proceeding.
When purchasing a new device, numerous waterproof smartphone options exist. Waterproof phones are no longer limited to specialized users like military personnel or field workers. Models such as the Xperia M4 Aqua, HTC Desire Eye, and Samsung Galaxy S5 boast an IPX7 rating.
This rating signifies the ability to withstand complete submersion in water up to one meter deep for a duration exceeding 30 minutes.
Interestingly, Samsung deviated from this trend with the Galaxy S6, removing the waterproof feature present in earlier models. This resulted in a more vulnerable device susceptible to water damage.
Despite this, the previously mentioned devices remain excellent choices for individuals who frequently spend time outdoors or desire a phone less prone to damage from accidental splashes or everyday use.
These phones offer peace of mind, eliminating the need for replacement after exposure to water during activities like gardening or phone calls.
Image Credit: Flickr/Mark Ou, Wikimedia, Flickr/TechStage, Wikimedia, Flickr/Kārlis Dambrāns, Pexels, Gazelle Flickr/Gwyn Fisher