Got Water In Your Electronics? 4 Ways to Save It

Got Water In Your Electronics? 4 Ways to Save It

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Got Water In Your Electronics? 4 Ways to Save It

Accidents happen, and you may have found yourself with wet electronics on hand. Don’t give up, there’s hope! Below are the basic rescue steps to increase survivability of any wet e ...

Accidents happen, and you may have found yourself with wet electronics on hand. Don’t give up, there’s hope! Below are the basic rescue steps to increase survivability of any wet electronics, and then 5 methods to dry your device.

Basic Rescue Steps After Dropping Electronics in Water

Whether you’ve dropped an IPhone or a laptop, there are certain steps to take when your electronics have been exposed to water. These are:

  • Get the electronic device out of water ASAP – The longer the device sits in water, the greater the chances of the device getting water-damaged.
  • Limit water exposure – Gently shake the device, and then pat the device dry with a cloth or towel.
  • Turn off the device – If the device is still on, turn it off to prevent the battery from getting damaged.
  • Remove external cases – Remove protective cases or covers to open up gaps and slots for water to drain out.
  • Remove battery, memory, and SIM card if possible – These parts will dry much faster if they are removed from the device and dried separately.

4 Methods to Dry Your Electronics After Being Exposed to Water

Now, the next step is to dry out your wet electronics. Below are 4 different ways to do so:

Use a Vacuum Cleaner or Hand Vacuum

For water that’s stuck deep inside your electronics, a vacuum cleaner or hand vacuum can draw residual moisture away from the circuitry.

However, don’t hold the vacuum too close to the device and only use the lowest setting. Otherwise, you’ll risk generating static electricity that may damage your electronics.

Use Desiccants

Desiccants are hygroscopic material, which means they maintain a state of dryness.

As such, they pull water away from your electronics. Stick several packets of desiccants – such as Silica gel – and your electronic device into a sealable plastic baggy or container. Then, leave your device in there overnight, but ideally 48 hours.

Use Dry Rice

Desiccants are ideal for absorbing water from wet devices, but you may not have access to it. If that’s the case for you, wholegrain uncooked rice can be a passable alternative. Place your device into a bowl or bag of rice, and ideally let it sit for 48 hours or more. Make sure the entire device is covered.

Use Q-Tips and Alcohol

If you know water is stuck in certain small parts of your device and it won’t dry, try this.

Dip a Q-Tip into a small amount of rubbing alcohol (or Vodka) and apply it to the section. Because rubbing alcohol has a dehydrating effect, it can help evaporate water faster.