A phone exposed to water can stop working quickly. Knowing what to do can improve the chances of saving it. Water can cause short circuits and damage internal components. Acting fast is important to prevent further issues.
Water damage repair costs vary. Some repairs are cheap, while others can cost hundreds of dollars. Some phones recover after drying, while others need professional repair or replacement.
Understanding the right steps can help you decide whether to fix or replace your phone.
Key Takeaways
- Turn off a wet phone immediately to prevent short circuits.
- Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers, which can damage internal parts.
- Dry the phone using a lint-free cloth and let it air dry in a dry place.
- Water-resistant phones can still suffer damage, so take precautions.
- Professional repair may be necessary if the phone does not work after drying.
What to Do First When a phone gets wet, quick action can make a difference. Follow these steps immediately:
- Turn It Off – If the phone is still on, turn it off to prevent electrical damage.
- Remove Accessories – Take off the case, SIM card, and memory card to allow better airflow.
- Dry the Exterior – Use a lint-free cloth to wipe away visible water.
- Place It in a Dry Area – Keep the phone in a well-ventilated area for drying.
Avoid shaking the phone or pressing buttons. This can push water deeper inside and cause more damage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid Some actions can make water damage worse. Avoid these mistakes:
- Do Not Use a Hair Dryer – Heat can warp phone components.
- Do Not Put It in Rice – Rice does not effectively absorb moisture and can leave dust inside.
- Do Not Charge It Right Away – Plugging in a wet phone can cause short circuits.
- Do Not Tap or Shake the Phone – This spreads water inside, increasing damage risk.
Water Damage Repair Costs Repair costs depend on damage severity. Here is an estimate of repair costs for common phone brands:
| Brand | Average Repair Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| iPhone | $100 – $600 |
| Samsung | $80 – $500 |
| $90 – $400 | |
| OnePlus | $70 – $350 |
| Motorola | $60 – $300 |
Replacing a phone may be a better option for older models with severe damage.
Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof Phones Many modern phones have water resistance, but they are not waterproof. Water resistance is rated by IP (Ingress Protection) ratings.
| IP Rating | Protection Level |
| IP67 | Resists dust and brief submersion (up to 1m) |
| IP68 | Resists dust and deeper water exposure (up to 1.5m) |
Even with an IP68 rating, water damage is possible. Saltwater, chlorine, and soapy water can corrode internal parts. Always dry a wet phone completely before using it again.
DIY Drying Methods: Are They Effective? Some home remedies work better than others:
- Silica Gel Packets – These absorb moisture faster than rice.
- Ventilated Drying – Leaving the phone in an open space with good airflow helps evaporation.
- Desiccant Kits – Some stores sell drying kits designed for electronics.
Drying time varies. It can take 24 to 72 hours before the phone is safe to turn on.
Professional Water Damage Repair If drying does not work, professional repair may be needed. A repair technician can:
- Open the phone to clean and dry components.
- Check for corrosion and replace damaged parts.
- Test the phone to ensure it functions correctly.
Some phone repair services offer free diagnostics to determine damage levels before charging for repairs.
When to Replace Instead of Repair In some cases, replacing the phone is better than repairing it. Consider replacement if:
- The repair cost is more than half the price of a new phone.
- The phone has frequent issues after repair.
- The warranty no longer covers water damage.
Before replacing a phone, check if insurance or warranty coverage applies. Some phone manufacturers offer trade-in programs to reduce the cost of a new phone.
Final Thoughts on Water-Damaged Phones Water exposure does not always mean a phone is beyond repair. Taking immediate steps can help prevent further damage. Avoid common mistakes and use effective drying methods. If the phone does not work after drying, professional repair services may be necessary. In some cases, replacing the phone is the best option. Understanding repair costs and options helps in making the right decision.