Accidentally dropping your iPhone in water is one of the most dreaded experiences for any smartphone owner. Whether it’s a spilled drink, a pool dunk, or an unexpected rainstorm, water damage can be devastating to your device. However, before panicking and rushing to a repair shop, there are steps you can take to try and save your water-damaged iPhone.
In this article, we’ll delve into practical tips for handling water damage, what to do immediately after the incident, and when to seek professional help.
1. Act Fast: Power Off Your iPhone
The first step in salvaging your iPhone after water exposure is to power it off immediately. This is critical because water can short-circuit the internal components, especially the motherboard, which could cause permanent damage. If the device is still on, turn it off by pressing and holding the power button (or volume button and power button, depending on the model).
Do not wait for the phone to die on its own—shutting it off immediately reduces the risk of a short circuit.
2. Remove Accessories and SIM Card
Once your iPhone is powered off, the next step is to remove all accessories such as cases, charging cables, and headphones. These can trap moisture inside and prevent your phone from drying completely.
Additionally, remove the SIM card using the SIM ejector tool. This can help ensure that any water trapped in the tray doesn’t cause further damage to your SIM card or its slot.
3. Dry the Exterior
Gently dry the exterior of the phone with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. Avoid using a hairdryer or heat source, as excessive heat can cause further harm to the internal components. Simply dab or wipe the phone to remove as much moisture as possible.
4. Use the Rice Method (With Caution)
The famous rice method involves placing your iPhone in a bowl of uncooked rice, which is believed to absorb moisture. While this can be somewhat effective, it’s not a guaranteed fix, and rice may leave dust and debris in your phone. Additionally, it’s not the most efficient moisture-absorber. If you choose to use rice, make sure the phone is completely surrounded by it and leave it for at least 48 hours.
However, a more effective and safer alternative is to use silica gel packets—the kind that often comes in shoeboxes or new bags. These are much better at absorbing moisture and will not leave debris inside your phone.
5. Avoid Turning It On Too Soon
After you’ve dried your phone, resist the temptation to turn it on immediately. Allow the phone to dry completely for at least 24-48 hours before attempting to power it back on. Turning it on too soon while there is still moisture inside can cause internal damage.
6. Check for Liquid Indicators
Apple devices come with Liquid Contact Indicators (LCIs) that turn red when they come into contact with liquid. These indicators are located in various places within your iPhone, such as near the SIM tray, headphone jack, or charging port. You can check these indicators to see if the water damage is significant.
If the LCI is red, it means the device has been exposed to water, and any warranty or AppleCare+ coverage may be voided. If the LCI is still white, your phone might have only sustained minor moisture exposure.
7. Try a Soft Reset
After your iPhone has dried for at least 24 hours, attempt to turn it back on. If it powers up without issues, great! If not, try performing a soft reset by holding the power button and the volume down button (on newer models) or the home button (on older models) until the Apple logo appears. This can sometimes help reset any minor issues caused by water exposure.
8. Test for Functionality
Once your iPhone powers on, test its basic functions to ensure everything is working properly. Check the screen, touch responsiveness, buttons, speaker, and charging port. Sometimes water can affect these components temporarily but may resolve after further drying time.
9. Use Professional Repair Services if Necessary
If your iPhone shows signs of malfunction, such as a flickering screen, non-responsive touch, or the charging port not working, it’s time to seek professional help. While DIY methods can be effective in some cases, serious water damage often requires expert repairs.
Apple offers an out-of-warranty repair service for water-damaged iPhones, but the cost can vary depending on the model and the extent of the damage. Third-party repair shops may offer more affordable options, but always ensure they are reputable.
10. Prevent Future Water Damage
Once you’ve dealt with water damage, it’s a good idea to take steps to prevent future incidents. Consider investing in a waterproof case or a water-resistant pouch when using your iPhone around water. Keep in mind that while iPhones are water-resistant (starting with the iPhone 7), they are not fully waterproof, and water exposure can still cause damage over time.
Additionally, some newer iPhone models come with IP68 ratings, which means they can withstand submersion in water up to a certain depth and duration. However, this protection is not a guarantee that your device will survive in all water-related accidents.
Conclusion
Water damage is one of the most common causes of smartphone issues, but with the right steps, you can increase the chances of saving your iPhone. Acting quickly, powering off your device, and using proper drying techniques can help minimize damage. However, if the phone doesn’t function properly after these efforts, seeking professional repair services is your next best option.
Remember that prevention is key, so consider protecting your device with a waterproof case in the future to avoid the hassle of dealing with water damage again.