Steps to Take to Fix Water Damage to Your Phone
Water damage to your smartphone can feel like a disaster, especially given how essential this device has become in your daily life. Whether it’s a splash or a full dunk, knowing the right steps to mitigate the damage can make a significant difference in saving your phone. We’re here to teach you how to fix water damage to a phone, including the crucial first steps to take and what you should do if DIY fixes don’t work.
Never underestimate water damage to a phone.
Firstly, it’s crucial to understand how water can harm your phone. Water can seep into the internals of your device through any small openings—be it the charging port, headphone jack, or even the speakers and buttons. This moisture can corrode metal components and short-circuit electrical pathways, leading to permanent damage if not addressed promptly. But how can you quickly act if you’re unsure whether a quick splash or drop has damaged your precious Samsung or iPhone?
Since it’s critical not to underestimate water damage to a phone, you must be wary of the signs of water damage. These can vary, but indicators include:
- Liquid Damage Indicator (LDI) Colour Change: Most phones have an LDI that changes colour when exposed to water. Typically, this indicator turns from white or silver to pink or red if there has been water contact.
- Visual Signs: Patches of water or evaporation marks behind the screen and discolouration or corrosion visible at ports or on internal components are clear signs of a water-damaged phone.
- Muffled or Distorted Sound: If the audio quality decreases or sounds are muffled or distorted, it could indicate water damage affecting your phone’s speaker or microphone.
- Erratic Behaviour: Are apps opening & closing on their own? Does your phone turn on and off by itself? That can be a sign of liquid damage to a phone.
- Touchscreen Issues: Unresponsive or erratic touchscreen behaviour may have different causes, but it can also be linked to water exposure.
- Charging Problems: Issues with phone charging or connecting to a computer may arise if water compromises the charging port.
- Battery Issues: Have you noticed that your phone battery drains quickly after minor contact with water? You can have your battery replaced or bring it to a technician to find out whether the battery issues are caused by liquid damage.
Take immediate action if your phone has suffered water damage.
If you’ve noticed signs that your smartphone has suffered water damage, you must act promptly to address the issue. Here are the initial steps you must take:
Step 1: Power Off Your Smartphone ASAP
As soon as you realise your phone has come into contact with liquid, the first step is to power it off immediately. Doing so prevents electricity from flowing through the device, which can reduce the risk of short circuits and further damage.
Step 2: If Possible, Remove External Components
If your phone design allows, remove any external components such as cases, SIM cards, and, if possible, the battery. That way, internal parts can dry, and you can keep moisture from being trapped inside the phone.
Step 3: Wipe and Dry the Exterior
Gently wipe the exterior of your phone with a soft, absorbent cloth. Avoid shaking or using excessive force; doing so can push water deeper into the phone’s internal components. If available, use a vacuum cleaner with a small attachment to gently suck out water from the crevices and ports. Be cautious not to hold the vacuum too close to the phone to prevent damage. You can also place the phone (along with the external components if you’ve managed to remove them) in a sealed container filled with silica gel packs. These packs are effective at absorbing moisture. Leave the phone and external components in the container for at least 24 to 48 hours.
How long should you wait before turning on a water-damaged phone?
Whether you’ve used a vacuum cleaner or left your phone in a sealed container with silica gel packs to dry, you should wait at least 24 to 48 hours before turning it on. This waiting period allows sufficient time for the phone to dry thoroughly, reducing the risk of short circuits and further damage when the device is powered back on. Also, avoid charging your phone until you’re certain it has dried completely. Charging a wet phone can cause further damage and pose safety risks.
Mistakes to avoid when trying to fix water damage to a phone
When trying to repair a water-damaged phone, certain well-intentioned actions can cause more harm. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid:
- Exposing the Phone to Heat: Using a hairdryer or placing the phone in direct sunlight to speed up drying can cause additional damage to sensitive components.
- Blowing Air into the Phone: While it might seem effective, blowing air can push water further into the phone, increasing the risk of damage.
- Using Rice: A popular myth suggests submerging a water-logged phone in rice to absorb moisture. However, rice is ineffective at drawing out deep moisture and can leave dust and starch residues in your phone.
When to seek professional help
If you’re unsure about any step or the phone does not turn on after attempting these measures, it’s wise to bring it to a professional. Sometimes, the liquid damage can be extensive, or the phone might require parts or replacements that only a skilled technician can handle. If you need further convincing, here’s a quick comparison of DIY or home repairs and professional water damage repair services:
Limitations of Home Repairs
- Effectiveness: While some minor water exposure can be managed at home, DIY repair methods are not guaranteed to fix all issues, especially if the water has penetrated deeply into the phone. So, if you’re worried about moisture in the charging port or want to know how to get water out of your phone speaker, it’s best to talk to a pro.
- Risk of Further Damage: DIY methods carry a risk of causing further damage, such as pushing water deeper into the phone or leaving residues behind.
- Detection of Damage: Home methods might not adequately address hidden damages or corrosion that can lead to long-term issues.
Professional Water Damage Phone Repair Services
- Advanced Techniques: Experienced phone repair technicians use advanced methods like ultrasonic cleaning and vacuum drying that are beyond the capabilities of most DIY repairs.
- Thorough Assessment: Professionals can fully disassemble the phone, assess the extent of the damage more accurately, and replace damaged parts.
- Guarantee: Professional liquid damage phone repairs often come with a warranty or guarantee, providing peace of mind that the repair is durable. You no longer need to worry about learning how to get liquid out of your phone or how to fix a phone dropped in water—you just know the seasoned technicians will get the job done.
Summing it up
Learning how to fix water damage to a phone can be stressful, but quick and informed actions can potentially save your phone from permanent and serious damage. If you find yourself in a situation where your iPhone, Samsung or Google Pixel has been water-damaged, following the steps discussed above can give you the best chance at revival. When in doubt, professional help is just a consultation away. Simply visit one of Dr Boom Communications’ stores in Australia.
All our stores have qualified on-site technicians ready to fix your smartphone that has been splashed or dropped in water. You can count on our team of pros to diagnose the issue and even perform the repair on the same day. Book a repair service today.
