Since smartphones have become a part of our bodies, and one time or another it’s likely to get wet and believe me one of the worst things that can happen to your phone is getting it wet. Whether it’s an accidental drop in a sink, a forgotten cycle in the laundry, or an unexpected rainfall, the aftermath can spell disaster. Water infiltration can wreak havoc on your phone’s inner workings, resulting in screen malfunctions, touch sensitivity issues, or even complete failure. Nevertheless, there are immediate steps you can take to minimize the impact.
When water breaches your smartphone’s defenses, it can manifest in a variety of ways, including:
- – Visible droplets beneath the screen
- – Charging complications
- – Corrosion of internal components
- – Blurred images due to moisture in the camera lens
- – Distorted or muted audio
- – Total loss of functionality
Aren’t phones water-resistant nowadays?
While many contemporary phones tout water resistance, this does not equate to being fully waterproof.
For example, Apple’s iPhone 7 and subsequent iterations boast splash and water resistance. Models from iPhone XS onwards carry an IP68 rating, signifying their ability to withstand submersion for up to 30 minutes at depths of up to 6 meters (20 feet), depending on the specific model.
These devices also feature alerts for liquid detection in crucial ports and advise against charging. Similarly, Samsung’s Galaxy Android phones boast similar ratings, with a maximum depth tolerance of approximately 5 meters (16 feet).
Google’s recent Pixel phones share these water resistance credentials. However, Google cautions that their devices aren’t waterproof and that resistance levels may diminish over time due to regular wear, repairs, or damage.
To salvage your waterlogged device, consider the following actions.
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Immediate Steps:
Blot the exterior dry using an absorbent material like a towel or cloth sleeve. Remove the SIM card and its tray. If feasible, disassemble the back cover and battery to allow for drying. Power off the phone if possible.
For iPhones, which are not designed to be disassembled, Apple recommends gently tapping the device, connector ports facing downward, to expel liquid.
Samsung advises using a cotton swab to eliminate moisture from the earphone jack and charging port, while Apple discourages inserting anything into iPhone openings.
If the liquid isn’t water but another substance like a beverage, seawater, or chlorinated pool water, Samsung suggests briefly submerging the phone in clean water, followed by rinsing to remove any residue that could accelerate internal corrosion.
Both companies concur that air-drying the phone in a well-ventilated area, perhaps with the assistance of a fan, is ideal. Google suggests allowing the device to air dry at room temperature.
What to Avoid
Avoid using hair dryers or compressed air. Refrain from freezing your phone, as this may momentarily prevent short-circuiting but won’t resolve the issue upon thawing. Also, avoid placing your phone in a tumble dryer or near a radiator.
Do not attempt to power on or charge the phone with a cable. However, in emergencies, wireless charging may be utilized.
Regarding the long-standing suggestion of using rice to dry electronics, Apple explicitly advises against this practice, cautioning that rice grains could cause further harm to the device.
Is there an alternative to rice for drying out a wet phone?
Silica gel is a superior alternative, renowned for its moisture-absorbing properties. These beads are commonly found in packets accompanying items such as beef jerky, seaweed sheets, or sneakers to maintain dryness. They are also available for purchase in bulk online. For optimal results, place your phone alongside silica gel beads in an airtight container.
How do I know when my phone is adequately dry?
Determining dryness can be challenging, but it’s advisable to wait as long as possible, ideally several days. Samsung recommends seeking inspection at a service center even after air-drying your device.
