The short answer
What Determines Survival
The chance your phone survives depends on several factors. Fresh water is less damaging than salt water or chlorinated water, which corrode internal parts faster. The depth and duration of submersion also matter, as does whether the phone was on when it got wet.
If the phone was off and dried quickly, the odds improve. Modern phones have some water resistance, but that does not make them waterproof. Even a brief dunk can cause issues if water reaches the logic board or battery connectors.
Immediate Steps to Take
If your phone gets wet, power it off right away. Do not press buttons or plug it in, as that can cause short circuits. Remove the SIM card and any memory cards, and if the battery is removable, take it out.
Gently dry the outside with a soft cloth, then place the phone in a dry, ventilated area. Avoid using heat like a hairdryer, which can warp parts. Silica gel packets can help absorb moisture, but leave the phone for at least 48 hours before trying to power it on.
- Turn off the phone immediately
- Remove battery, SIM, and memory cards
- Dry the exterior with a soft cloth
- Place in a dry, ventilated spot
- Wait 48 hours before powering on
- Do not use heat sources
When to Seek Professional Help
If the phone was submerged in dirty water, like floodwater, or if it shows signs of corrosion, a professional electronics repair service may be able to clean it. They can open the device and treat internal parts with special solvents.
For water damage that affects your home, such as a burst pipe or roof leak, local water damage pros can handle the drying and cleaning of your property. They focus on your home, not the phone, but they can help prevent further damage to your belongings.
Drying Methods That Work
Rice is a common folk remedy, but it is not very effective and can leave starch residue. Better options include using a desiccant like silica gel or a specialized drying pouch. You can also leave the phone in a dry room with good airflow.
Some people suggest using a vacuum cleaner to draw out moisture, but that can create static. The safest method is patience. Let the phone dry naturally for several days, checking occasionally for any signs of moisture.
- Use silica gel packets instead of rice
- Keep the phone in a dry room
- Avoid vacuum cleaners due to static
- Allow several days for thorough drying
- Check for moisture before powering on
Preventing Future Water Damage
To protect your phone, consider a waterproof case, especially if you live in an area with heavy rain or storms. Euless, for example, has a humid subtropical climate, so sudden downpours are possible. Keep your phone away from sinks, pools, and open windows.
If your home experiences water damage from a flood or leak, act quickly to dry the area. The pros can perform water extraction and drying to minimize damage to your home and belongings. This can also help protect any electronics that were nearby.
Water damage does not wait
Call (817) 799-6732 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
How long should I wait before turning my phone on?
Wait at least 48 hours, but longer is better. If the phone was submerged in salt water or dirty water, wait up to a week. Turning it on too soon can cause a short circuit. Patience is the right way to avoid permanent damage.
Can I use a hairdryer to dry my phone?
No, heat can damage the internal components and warp plastic parts. Instead, use a soft cloth to dry the outside and let the phone air dry in a ventilated area. Silica gel packets can speed up the process without heat.
What if my phone was in floodwater?
Floodwater contains contaminants that can corrode the phone. Do not turn it on. Place it in a sealed bag with silica gel and take it to a professional electronics repair service soon. They can clean the internal parts and assess the damage.