Can an iPhone survive water damage? That’s the million-dollar question for anyone who’s accidentally dropped their phone in the pool, the toilet, or the sea. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what happens after an iPhone gets wet, what you can do to try and save it, and the pros and cons of attempting to fix water-damaged devices.
After experiencing water damage, the best-case scenario for an iPhone is that it continues to function, albeit with some glitches or reduced performance. However, in many cases, water damage can cause significant issues, from a non-responsive touchscreen to a completely dead phone.
Introduction
Ah, the iPhone – our trusty sidekick in life’s daily adventures. But when water enters the picture, things can quickly go south. Whether it’s a spilled drink, a dive into the pool, or a rainy day mishap, our beloved iPhones are not always as water-friendly as we’d like them to be. So, can an iPhone survive water damage? It’s a question that haunts many, and for a good reason. Water damage can be the death knell for our digital companions, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
It’s a topic that’s relevant to anyone who’s ever faced the horror of retrieving their iPhone from a watery grave. Understanding the intricacies of water damage and the steps you can take to mitigate it is not only wise but could save you from the heartache of losing your data and the hole in your wallet.
Can an iPhone Survive Water Damage? A Step by Step Tutorial
This section will guide you through the steps to take if your iPhone has suffered water damage, what each step achieves, and why it’s important.
Step 1: Turn off the iPhone immediately.
Shutting down your phone prevents electrical currents from flowing, which can reduce further damage.
Once your iPhone takes a dip, the first thing you need to do is turn it off. This step is crucial because leaving the phone on can cause short circuits and fry the internal components. It might be tempting to check if everything’s still working, but resist the urge. Powering down minimizes the potential for more damage.
Step 2: Remove the case and SIM card.
Taking off the case and SIM card allows the phone to dry more effectively.
After turning off your iPhone, strip it down. Remove the case, take out the SIM card, and if possible, open any ports. This step helps to air out the device and speeds up the drying process. Plus, removing the SIM card could save your contacts and data if the phone itself can’t be revived.
Step 3: Dry the exterior with a lint-free cloth.
Gently wiping away moisture helps prevent water from seeping further into the phone.
Grab a clean, lint-free cloth and start drying the outside of your iPhone. Be gentle, though – you don’t want to push water into the phone’s openings. This step is about minimizing external moisture, which can also reduce smudging and corrosion.
Step 4: Leave the iPhone in a dry place.
Storing the phone in a moisture-free environment aids the drying process.
Now, it’s time to play the waiting game. Put your iPhone in a dry, warm place, but avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, which can cause additional damage. Some recommend using silica gel packets or uncooked rice to help draw out the moisture, but these methods are not always effective and could introduce dust into your device.
Step 5: Wait before turning the iPhone back on.
Giving your phone ample time to dry internally is crucial before attempting to power it on.
This might be the hardest part – waiting. Experts suggest waiting at least 24 to 48 hours before trying to turn on your iPhone. This patience gives your phone the best chance to dry out completely and can potentially save it from permanent damage.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| No immediate cost | Attempting to dry out your iPhone on your own means you don’t have to fork over cash right away for repairs or replacements. |
| Data recovery | If successful, you might be able to retrieve important data, photos, and contacts that weren’t backed up. |
| Learning experience | Going through the process educates you on the dos and don’ts of iPhone water damage, making you better prepared for future incidents. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| No guarantees | Drying out your iPhone doesn’t ensure it will work again. Water damage can be severe and irreversible. |
| Void warranty | Apple’s warranty doesn’t cover water damage, and DIY attempts might void any existing coverage or options for professional repairs. |
| Potential for hidden damage | Even if your iPhone seems to work after drying out, water may have caused unseen damage that could lead to problems down the line. |
Additional Information
When it comes to water damage and iPhones, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each incident is unique, and various factors come into play, such as the length of time the phone was in water and the type of liquid involved. While newer iPhone models boast some degree of water resistance, they aren’t entirely waterproof. Saltwater, for instance, is more corrosive than freshwater and can cause more damage.
If your iPhone does come back to life after water exposure, keep an eye out for any unusual behavior. Glitches, battery issues, or even odd noises could indicate internal damage that needs professional attention. And remember, prevention is always the best strategy. Invest in a waterproof case if you’re often around water, and make sure to back up your data regularly.
Summary
- Turn off the iPhone immediately to prevent short circuits.
- Remove the case and SIM card to aid drying.
- Dry the exterior with a lint-free cloth to remove moisture.
- Leave the iPhone in a dry place to help internal drying.
- Wait before turning the iPhone back on to ensure it’s dry inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can rice really save a water-damaged iPhone?
Rice has been touted as a DIY fix for water-damaged electronics due to its moisture-absorbing properties. However, while it may absorb some water, it’s not the most effective method and could introduce dust or starch into your device.
Will Apple fix a water-damaged iPhone?
Apple’s warranty does not cover water damage. However, they offer out-of-warranty repair services, which might include fixing water-damaged iPhones for a fee.
Are newer iPhones waterproof?
Newer iPhone models have varying degrees of water resistance but are not completely waterproof. They can withstand splashes or brief submersion in water but are not designed for prolonged exposure.
What should I do if my iPhone gets wet and won’t turn on?
If your iPhone won’t turn on after getting wet, you should still follow the drying steps outlined in this article. Afterward, if it still doesn’t power on, seeking professional repair services is the next step.
How long should I wait before turning on my iPhone after water exposure?
It’s recommended to wait at least 24 to 48 hours before attempting to turn on your iPhone after water exposure to ensure it’s thoroughly dried.
Conclusion
Water damage and iPhones are a tricky combination, and while it’s a heart-stopping moment, it doesn’t always mean the end for your device. By following the steps above, you increase your chances of reviving your water-stricken iPhone. However, it’s important to remember that even with your best efforts, water damage can be unpredictable and sometimes irreversible.
That’s why taking preventative measures, like using waterproof cases and regularly backing up data, is crucial. Can an iPhone survive water damage? The answer is, it depends. But with knowledge and quick action, you give your iPhone a fighting chance.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.