One of the most typical causes of smartphone malfunction is water damage, which is also the one that mobile phone users fear the most. Fortunately, water-resistant phones are becoming increasingly common, but still people dread when their phone falls in a puddle or pool or splashes in the rain. The first question that usually comes up is: Can a water-damaged phone be repaired? Recognising what actually happens after a phone gets wet and distinguishing myths from the facts are both essential for answering this problem.
Myth 1: Prompt Action Will Save Your Phone
Many people instinctively remove their phone as soon as it’s drenched in the water and try to dry it off to avoid permanent damage. Makes sense, but it is significant to realise that initial moments of water-damaged phones are not as necessary as might be believed.
Fact:
If a water-damaged phone is exposed to water for a prolonged period, particularly when charging or switched on, that is where the real damage takes place. This may result in internal short circuits, corrosion, and other electrical problems. Although resting a little before opening the phone can at times be safer than rushing and trying to remove the water quickly.
Myth 2: Rice Will Fix It All
This myth is one of the oldest and most widespread; you must have heard some people relying on the “rice trick” to fix their water-damaged phone. Rice having the remarkable absorption ability has been believed to pull the moisture out of your phone while restoring it to a working state.
Fact:
Despite the high absorbing ability of rice, it is not recommended to dry out your phone with this method, as rice can make the damage even worse by putting dust and other small particles inside your phone. Using silica gel or a dehumidifier is the best method to remove the moisture from your phone. Also, before switching on the phone, try leaving your phone for at least 48 hours in a sealable bag with silica gel or other deliquescent material.
Myth 3: If Water-damaged Phone Turns On, Its Fine
Pulling your phone out of water, drying it up, and then turning it on is the most dreadful experience. If the phone turns on and works efficiently, you might be at ease assuming that everything is fine.
Fact:
Your phone can still have some damage, like corrosion in the internal circuit, regardless of whether it turns on after getting exposed to water. While this damage might not be noticeable at first, issues like the camera malfunctioning, declining battery life, or a touchscreen that is unresponsive could originate from this damage. However, if your phone is apparently working fine initially, it is still highly recommended to get it checked by a professional in order to prevent any complications in the long run.
Myth 4: In Water, Water-resistant Phones Are Totally Secure
Many latest models of smartphones feature an IP (Ingress Protection) rating, which demonstrates how water and dust resistant they are. An IP67-rated phone, for example, is capable of resisting water damage in one metre of depth for half an hour. These features are meant to protect the phone from quick submersions or unexpected splashes. Yet, a lot of people wrongly assume that this implies that smartphones are resistant to water exposure.
Fact:
Water-resistant phones provide extra protection, but they are not resistant to water damage. The IP rating depicts performance under specified conditions, and wear, drops, and shocks may lead its water resistance to decline over time. Longevity in extreme conditions such as chlorinated or saltwater is not guaranteed. Avoid submerging your phone intentionally, as it can still be damaged by exposure to water that exceeds its capacity.
Myth 5: Once Your Phone Gets Wet, It’s Beyond Repair
A lot of customers presume that a phone’s damage is irreversible immediately when it gets exposed to water, especially when users observe apparent signs of malfunction like distorted sound, a black screen, or a flickering display. Due to this, a lot of people assume that replacing the phone completely is their sole option.
Fact:
Although water- damage tends to be fixed, the amount of damage defines whether the repair is beneficial. Rust elimination, cleaning, and replacement of parts could be performed if immediate action and professional help are given. Fixing serious damage can sometimes be done; however, it can be costly and takes time. The pace at which the phone is dry and what essential components, like the main processor, are irreversible determine how smoothly the repair proceeds.
Myth 6: Water Damage Is Always Covered by Warranty
Some customers assume that their warranty will reimburse them for repairs if a cell phone undergoes water damage, especially if the phone is insured by the warranty. This is one of the most widespread misunderstandings.
Fact:
While the phone is specifically water-resistant and the damage fits the producer’s needs, the majority of smartphone plans don’t include water damage. If the mobile is exposed to moisture or water, the warranty often becomes null. Third-party services and insurance tend to be the most affordable choices if your phone goes out of warranty since repairs might prove expensive.
What to Do If Your Phone Gets Wet
In case your phone is water-damaged, then you need to take timely yet careful action. The most suitable course of action is as follows:
- Power off immediately
- Dry it completely
- Remove all detachable parts
- Using a moisture-absorbing substance
- Give 48 hours to dry
- Get professional help
