Water Damage Repair: What to Do When Your Phone Gets Wet

Water Damage Repair: What to Do When Your Phone Gets Wet. Accidents happen. You’re walking along the beach, your phone slips from your hand, and before you know it, it’s submerged in the water. Or maybe you’re caught in a downpour without an umbrella, and your device takes the brunt of it. It can be a terrifying experience, but don’t panic just yet. Your phone may still be salvageable. At Phone Repairs Wollongong, we’ve seen it all and have learned that the quicker you act, the better your chances of saving your device. In this article, we’ll break down the crucial steps to take after your phone gets wet, and what you can do to prevent future water damage.

How Water Damage Affects Your Phone

Understanding why water can be so damaging to your phone is the first step in responding correctly. While modern smartphones come with water-resistant ratings like IP67 or IP68, this doesn’t mean they are entirely waterproof. In fact, the level of protection decreases over time due to wear and tear on seals or accidental cracks.

When water enters your phone, it doesn’t just wet the screen or the back cover; it seeps into internal components like the motherboard, battery, charging port, and other sensitive parts. Water can cause corrosion, short-circuiting, and potentially irreparable damage to these components, making it crucial to act fast.

What to Do Immediately After Water Exposure

If your phone gets wet, the first few minutes are critical. Don’t waste any time—follow these steps to maximise your chances of recovery.

1. Remove the Phone from the Water

First and foremost, get your phone out of the water as quickly as possible. The longer your device stays submerged, the higher the likelihood of severe damage. Whether it’s in a puddle, dropped in the toilet, or fell into a pool, time is of the essence.

2. Turn Off the Phone Immediately

Once your phone is dry on the outside, turn it off immediately if it’s still on. If the phone has already shut down, do not try to power it back on. This can cause a short circuit, which could make the situation worse. Powering down the device prevents electrical components from coming into contact with the moisture, reducing the risk of further damage.

3. Remove All External Accessories

Take off your phone’s case, SIM card, and microSD card (if applicable). These accessories can trap moisture and worsen the situation. Removing external parts helps water escape more freely. If your device has a removable battery, take that out as well.

4. Dry the Exterior Gently

With a microfibre cloth or paper towels, dab the exterior of the phone—don’t rub it, as that could force moisture into the ports. Be especially cautious around areas like the charging port, speaker grills, and headphone jack, as these are common entry points for water.

5. Place the Phone in an Upright Position

Set your phone in an upright position with the ports facing down. This allows any excess water to naturally drain out of the device, especially from areas like the charging port.

What Not to Do After Water Damage

When your phone gets wet, you might be tempted to try some common “quick fixes” you’ve heard about. However, some of these methods can actually make things worse. Here’s what you should avoid:

1. Do Not Use a Hairdryer

While it may seem like a good idea to use hot air to dry your phone, a hairdryer can overheat the internal components. Applying direct heat can cause damage to the screen or distort the plastic casing. Let the phone dry naturally rather than blasting it with heat.

2. Don’t Put Your Phone in Rice

One of the most widely circulated myths is placing your phone in rice to dry it out. While rice might seem like an easy solution, it doesn’t effectively absorb moisture from your phone. In fact, tiny grains of rice can get stuck in the ports, potentially causing even more damage. Opt for silica gel packets instead, as they are designed for moisture absorption.

3. Don’t Charge the Phone

It can be tempting to plug in your phone to see if it works, but charging a wet device is dangerous. If moisture is still inside, charging it could cause a short circuit or even permanently fry the motherboard. Keep your phone unplugged until you’re sure it’s completely dry.

4. Avoid Shaking or Pressing Buttons

Shaking the phone or pressing buttons like the home button or volume buttons can push water further into the device. Avoid pressing any buttons and keep the device as still as possible to prevent further damage.

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Drying Techniques to Try at Home

While you can’t completely fix the damage yourself, there are a few ways to help the drying process at home. Here are some of the best methods to use:

1. Use Silica Gel Packs

Unlike rice, silica gel packs are designed to absorb moisture. If you have a few packets lying around, place your phone and the gel packs in an airtight container for 24 to 48 hours. Silica gel is far more effective than rice and won’t leave any debris behind.

2. Leave the Phone to Air Dry

If silica gel is unavailable, the next best option is air drying. Place the phone in a dry, warm area (but not in direct sunlight) for 24 to 48 hours. Make sure the phone is positioned with the ports facing down so that gravity can help remove any excess moisture.

3. Use a Vacuum Sealer (Optional)

Some users opt for a vacuum sealer bag to try and extract moisture from their phone. The vacuum will create a sealed environment that can help draw out moisture. However, this method is not always recommended for beginners and should be done with caution.

When to Seek Professional Help

After you’ve dried your phone as best as you can, it’s time to decide whether it needs professional repair. At Phone Repairs Wollongong, we specialise in water damage repairs, and we recommend bringing your device in if:

Your phone still doesn’t power on after drying.
You notice symptoms like a foggy screen, distorted sound, or overheating.
The device shows liquid contact indicators (LCIs) or other signs of internal damage.
You notice corrosion or rust around the ports or battery compartment.

While many smartphones are designed with some water resistance in mind, once water enters internal components, it can wreak havoc. A professional technician can dismantle the phone, clean the internal components, and replace any damaged parts, giving your device a better chance of survival.

Prevention: How to Protect Your Phone in the Future

Prevention is always better than cure, so here are some simple tips to help avoid water damage in the future:

1. Invest in a Quality Waterproof Case

For those who frequently take their phones near water, whether at the beach, pool, or on rainy days, investing in a waterproof phone case is a smart idea. These cases provide a physical barrier, preventing water from entering the device.

2. Avoid Exposure to Humidity

Humidity can also cause internal damage over time. Try to keep your phone away from steam or moisture-laden areas like the bathroom or kitchen.

3. Use a Screen Protector and Case

A good screen protector and a reliable phone case can also offer additional protection. These can help prevent cracks and damage in the event of an accidental drop into water.

Conclusion

Water damage can be devastating, but with quick action and the right steps, your phone might still be saved. The best advice is to avoid panicking, follow the immediate steps outlined in this guide, and seek professional help when necessary. At Phone Repairs Wollongong, we specialise in water damage repair, and we’re always here to help restore your device to its former glory.

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