My Cell Phone Has Water Damage? Now What?

Roughly 30% of iPhone users report some form of damage to their device over the course of a year. Commonly, these damages include cracked screens and water damage. As frustrating as it is to damage it, it can be even more frustrating trying to find the right phone fix. Going to the manufacturer or first place you come across can result in you paying more than you need to for a great cell phone repair.

When you suspect your phone has water damage, the first step is to remove the device from the liquid immediately. The longer your device remains submerged, the higher the chance for more severe damage. Once you’ve removed your phone to a dry location, turn it off completely and leave it off. The next step is to remove any protective casing that may be trapping excess liquid. If you can, remove the battery and any sim cards. Water can build up in these areas and you’ll want to make sure it’s aerated.

After separating the necessary parts, pat your device dry with a cloth. Do not rub, as this can push liquid into crevices that lead to more sensitive wiring. If your phone was completely submerged in water, you can try gently vacuuming across the creases to suck out excess liquid. It’s also important to remember to keep your device in a cool, dry place. As much as you might want to leave it in the sun, it’s not as effective as keeping it cool.

Another common trick is placing your device in a bag of rice. While there are some success stories to this, it’s not a consistent method. A better method is to fill a bag with silica gel and place your phone inside for 24 to 48 hours. Silica has proven to be much more successful in removing unwanted moisture. After you’ve taken all of these steps, power your device back on. If you run into issues, try plugging in the charger and see if that makes a difference. This can help you gauge how much damage your phone may have sustained.

If your phone still doesn’t work properly, it’s time to consider taking it to a professional for repair. Cell phone damage is no joke and should be left to experienced professionals in more extreme cases. Attempting to fix further damage yourself may result in even more damage.

One place most people consider when needing cell phone repair is the device manufacturer. Sure, they will be able to help you out and give you a good result, however, it may end up costing more. If you’re on a tighter budget and want to save some money, look for experienced repair professionals that list water damage repair as one of their specialties. Be sure to check reviews and explore the company’s offerings before you make an appointment. Not only are these types of companies often just as experienced as manufacturers in phone repair, but they are also more cost-effective.

Damaging your phone can be a stressful experience. Finding the right phone fix when your device has water damage doesn’t have to cause added distress. Your phone is an important and expensive piece of equipment, so making sure your repair is in the right hands is crucial. Taking the necessary first steps and finding the right phone fix partner can turn a negative situation around in no time.