Dropping Your Phone in Water: What to Do and How to Fix It
Accidentally dropping your phone in water can be a harrowing experience, but don't panic. While the steps you take immediately after the incident can make a significant difference, it's important to know that once water is inside your device, there are limitations to what you can do on your own. Proper handling and professional assistance are crucial for saving your phone from water damage.
Immediate Steps to Take
When your phone hits the water, the first thing you should do is carefully fish it out and turn it off immediately. If it's still on, shutting it down quickly can prevent further damage. If your phone was submerged in salt water, it's a good idea to rinse it with sweet water (tap water) for a few minutes to help remove any salt residues. Then, gently shake the phone to remove excess water and dry it with paper towels.
Don't trust the old advice of putting your phone in rice; it doesn't work. Instead, allow your phone to air dry thoroughly. This means turning off the phone and letting it sit undisturbed, away from moisture, for a few hours. If the battery is removable, remove it and let it dry separately. You can use a hair dryer set to the coolest setting to help speed up the drying process, but avoid direct heat, as this can damage the internal components.
When to Worry: Signs of Severe Damage
Even if the phone seems to be working, there's no guarantee that it's completely free of damage. If it's broken, you might not even realize it until later. This moment of water exposure can transform your phone into a paperweight in a matter of seconds. While it's rare for a phone to be rendered useless immediately, it's important to be aware of potential long-term effects.
If your phone was not totally submerged and the submersion was brief, there's a good chance that there won't be any lasting damage. However, it's crucial to follow these steps carefully, and if you notice any issues like distorted sounds or erratic behavior, it's best to consult a professional.
Seeking Professional Help
Often, the quickest and most effective way to deal with water damage is to seek professional assistance. A tech repair shop can perform a thorough examination and cleaning, using specialized tools and techniques to address any issues caused by water exposure. Use isopropyl alcohol to clean the openings and internal components, which can help prevent further damage.
Truthfully disclosing the incident to your repair service is essential. The amount of time the phone was exposed to water and its current functionality will determine the extent and method of the repair. For minor water exposure, a technician might be able to remove the water and let the phone air dry, which could resolve the issue. For more significant exposure, they will need to take more extensive measures, such as cleaning and desoldering certain components.
It's important to note that waiting too long after the incident can lead to more severe damage, as corrosion and debris can start to eat away at the internal components. Therefore, even if the phone is still working a few days later, it's best to have it examined by a professional as soon as possible.
In conclusion, while immediate steps can help mitigate water damage, professional intervention is often necessary. Being truthful and seeking help promptly can significantly increase the likelihood of saving your phone from becoming a paperweight.