The world suddenly freezes when you see your phone dunked in water. Whether it’s in a pool, the sea, or a toilet, you know nothing good will come out of the next few seconds. After all, that’s a high-tech device worth a significant amount of cash, and chances are it will be deemed unusable. Not to mention, all your important files might be gone! But the good news is that you can fix a water-damaged phone.
Act Quickly
The key to rescuing a water-damaged phone is to act quickly. The longer your phone is submerged in water, the more damage it can sustain. As soon as you realize your phone has been exposed to water, remove it from the liquid immediately.
Disassemble and Dry
Once you’ve rescued your phone, turn it off and disassemble it as much as possible. Remove the battery, SIM card, and any other removable components. Then, use a dry, absorbent cloth or paper towel to gently dab away any excess moisture. Avoid rubbing the phone, as this can push the water deeper into the device.
Use Desiccants
To further dry out your phone, place it in a sealed bag or container with a desiccant like silica gel or uncooked rice. These materials will help absorb any remaining moisture. Leave your phone in the desiccant for at least 24 to 48 hours, or even longer if the water damage was extensive.
Seek Professional Help
If your phone still doesn’t power on or seems to be malfunctioning after the drying process, it’s best to seek professional help. A qualified technician can assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action, whether that’s attempting a repair or recommending a replacement.