If your phone gets wet, the most important steps are to power it off immediately, unplug it from any power source, and avoid using it. The key to preventing permanent damage is to dry the internal components and prevent corrosion from taking hold. Contrary to popular myth, putting your phone in a bowl of rice will not effectively dry it.
For a fast and reliable solution, bring your device to Square Dimension for a professional liquid damage diagnosis and repair. We can safely clean and restore your phone’s internal components to prevent long-term issues.
The Do’s: Immediate Steps to Take
- Power Off Immediately: Do not try to check if the phone still works. Powering on the device can cause a short circuit on the logic board, leading to permanent damage.
- Unplug from Power: If your phone was plugged in when it got wet, immediately unplug it. Do not attempt to charge it again until it has been professionally repaired.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a cloth or paper towel to gently wipe away any excess water from the outside of the phone.
- Remove SIM and Memory Cards: If possible, open the SIM card tray and remove the SIM card and any memory cards. This allows for a path for water to escape and helps protect your data.
The Don’ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do Not Turn it On: Resist the urge to press any buttons or check if the device works. This can cause a short circuit.
- Do Not Charge it: Charging a wet phone is extremely dangerous and can cause irreparable damage to the battery and the logic board.
- Do Not Use a Hairdryer or Direct Heat: High heat can push water deeper into the device and can melt internal components.
- Do Not Put it in Rice: Rice is ineffective at drawing out moisture from inside a sealed device and can leave behind dust and starch that can cause further damage.
Why Professional Repair is Essential
Even if your phone appears to be working after a liquid incident, corrosion can slowly build on the logic board and other components. This can cause the phone to fail weeks or even months later. A professional repair involves a thorough cleaning process using specialised tools and solutions to safely remove all moisture and corrosion from the inside of your device.
For professional assistance with mobile phones, computers, and data recovery, visit Mobile Phones Repair & Data Recovery by Square Dimension.