How to Fix an iPhone That is Damaged by Water? Repair Options
Water damage is among the most common issues that iPhone users face. Either accidental spill, falling into a pool, or catching heavy rains, water can cause damage to all of your device’s internal parts. You need to take action to avoid serious damage. This article will explore the consequences of water entering the device and potential iPhone repair solutions.
To fix a water-damaged iPhone, you can immediately extract it from the water, turn it off, remove any accessories and case, and wipe it down. iPhone users can also let it dry naturally; they don’t need to be quick to turn on their phone, avoid certain items when drying their phone, and take their device for professional repair.
Signs of iPhone Water Damage that Require Repairs
The extent of the water damage on your iPhone depends on how long your device has been under water. Some of the issues that may arise are:
- There is apparent rust or corrosion in charging ports, speakers, or SIM card slots that will require expert iPhone repair solutions.
- Touch problems, color changes, or unresponsive areas of the screen.
- Distortion of audio or malfunctioning microphone and speakers.
- The iPhone would drain the battery faster than usual or won’t charge.
- Camera pictures are blurry, or the lens doesn’t work.
- Your iPhone will experience unexpected shutdowns or application crashes.
- Check the Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI) for activation and signaling water exposure.
Repair Options and Steps to Take to Fix an iPhone Water Damage
Any contact with water often causes severe problems with your iPhone and reduces its functionalities. Here are some reliable iPhone repair solutions you can apply.
Immediately Extract the Phone from the Water
The first and most important step after your iPhone encounters water is to remove it from the water. Immediate action reduces water damage, prevents moisture from penetrating other delicate parts of the iPhone, and maximizes the opportunities to recover and restore your iPhone successfully.
Turn Off the iPhone
If your iPhone is still on after coming into contact with water, turn off your iPhone at once. It’s important because water can create short circuits within your phone. If left switched on, it will harm the elements, and you might require hiring an iPhone repair technician.
Remove Any Accessories and Case
Remove the protective case, screen protector, and accessories like headphones or charging cables. Cases may trap moisture inside the iPhone, causing further damage. If your iPhone has a SIM card, take it out right away. Water might also damage it and the tray, so it’s better to remove it and let it dry separately.
Wipe It Down
Use a lint-free cloth or paper towel to clean the outside of your iPhone delicately. During this procedure, pay extra attention to areas involving the headphone jack, charging port, and speaker holes. Don’t shake out the phone and blow nothing into the phone’s ports. This could push water deeper into the device, as suggested by iPhone repair technicians.
Let It Dry Naturally
The most common misconception is that it will absorb the moisture from the phone in rice. It is not recommended because dust may cling to your phone’s ports. You must let it dry in an area with good ventilation or front of a fan. Do not apply heat with a hair dryer or directly under sunlight.
Don’t be Quick to Turn on Your iPhone
Resist the temptation to turn your iPhone on if it has gone wet. The sooner you try to switch it on, the more likely it is to short-circuit inside the device, or it will have more damage. Instead, focus on drying and evaluating equipment to improve health and ensure proper iPhone repair is possible.
Avoid Certain Items When Drying Your Phone
A user with a water-damaged iPhone should not use a hair dryer on the device or put the phone under direct sunlight, as this would only aggravate internal water damage. On the same note, a user with an iPhone should not place their device in a bag of rice, thinking it is the best way to dry it because it will only crack the casing.
Taking Your iPhone for Professional Repair as the Last Resort
If nothing works, then your last resort should be sending your device to a professional iPhone repair service. The Apple Store or the Authorized Service Provider will provide the best services and genuine parts. You can also approach some third-party repair shops, though you should check their reviews and reputation.
Can an iPhone survive water damage?
An iPhone’s ability to survive water damage depends on factors like its model and the duration of exposure. While some models feature water resistance, prolonged exposure can still lead to significant damage.
Can a water-damaged iPhone be fixed?
Yes, depending on the extent of the damage, a water-damaged iPhone can often be fixed. Professional iPhone repair services can clean components and replace damaged parts, potentially restoring functionality. However, success isn’t guaranteed.
How do you fix a water-damaged iPhone without rice?
Instead of rice, use silica gel packets to absorb moisture from a water-damaged iPhone. Seal the phone and packets in an airtight container for 48 to 72 hours to facilitate drying.
Summing up
Water damage can be a nightmare for iPhone users, but taking immediate and informed actions can significantly mitigate the damage. To fix a water-damaged iPhone, you may first pull the phone out, turn it off, remove any attachments and case, and remove water by wiping the iPhone dry. However, you can leave your iPhone to air dry. Do not start using your phone by turning it on when drying out your iPhone, do not place some things into it when letting it dry, and take your device to a professional iPhone repair service.
