How to rescue a waterlogged iPhone?

“I dropped my phone in water…” is a fairly standard scenario among iPhone users. In today’s blog, we provide the necessary steps to save a wet iPhone and highlight important actions and potential risks.

Immediate Response: First Aid for a Wet iPhone

The chances of restoring a waterlogged iPhone depend on swift and accurate actions. If your iPhone takes an unexpected dive, follow these steps:

1. Retrieve: Quickly take the device out of the water.      
2. Dab and Remove: Pat it dry with a lint-free or absorbent cloth, remove the case and protective film.
3. Shake and Power Off: Gently shake the phone with the connector facing down, then turn it off completely.
4. Dry Time: Leave it to dry for about 6 hours in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

Note: If the phone encounters chemical liquid, rinse it carefully with running water.

For iPhones released after 2006, check the Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI) on the side – it turns red when exposed to water.

Understanding the Dangers of Water for iPhones

Water poses a significant threat to iPhones due to their electronic nature. Even when turned off, the battery remains connected, and water, being an excellent conductor of electricity, can lead to severe and sometimes irreversible damage. Chemicals in liquids like gasoline and alcohol exacerbate the risk. Potential issues include screen stains, malfunctioning touchscreens, speaker failures, and more.

Specific Scenarios: Speaker and Charging Port

If water enters the charging port, refrain from connecting the cable immediately. For iPhone XS and newer models, charging will be unavailable until complete drying. To dry the Lightning port, turn the device upside down, tap it on your palm, and leave it in a well-ventilated area. If water enters the speaker, shake the phone, turn it off for six hours, and if the sound persists, seek professional help.

Urgency: When to Seek Professional Assistance

If your phone refuses to turn on after a water incident, it’s crucial to contact an authorized Apple service center promptly. Delaying can significantly reduce the chances of saving the device and might increase repair costs. Serious cases include exposure to chemical liquids, extended water immersion, or visible damages to the phone’s body.

Warranty Consideration: Is it Covered?

Unfortunately, water damage voids the warranty. However, Apple service centers can still accept and repair the device. Skilled engineers at iSupport, an authorized service center, conduct thorough diagnostics and repairs.

DIY Pitfalls: Folk Methods and What Not to Do

While some advocate for “folk” methods like placing a wet iPhone in rice, these approaches are generally ineffective or unsafe. Apple strictly prohibits certain methods, including using rice, as grains may damage ports. Other cautioned methods, such as using a hairdryer, must be employed with care to avoid overheating sensitive components.

Six Don’ts When Drying a Smartphone:

1. Disassembling the Case: Avoid DIY disassembly if the phone won’t turn on.
2. Charging a Wet Phone: Charging may cause short circuits, posing risks to both the device and the owner.
3. Using Cleaning Agents: Moisturizing substances like wet wipes can seriously damage the device.
4. Cleaning Speaker with Sharp Objects: Avoid using cotton swabs or sharp objects.
5. Drying on Battery or Sunlight: Never dry the smartphone on a battery or in direct sunlight.
6. Immersing in Substances: Avoid immersion in substances like salt, buckwheat, rice, or sugar.

Prevention Tips: Keeping Your iPhone Dry

To prevent water damage, follow these guidelines:

1. Use a non-slip case to avoid accidental drops.
2. Avoid placing the phone on surfaces while eating.
3. Consider water-resistant iPhone models with IP67 or IP68 ratings.

Water-Resistant iPhone Models: Ratings and Considerations

Recent iPhone models come with water-resistant features indicated by IP (International Protection) ratings. Models like iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone SE (2nd gen), iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, iPhone 7 and 7 Plus have an IP67 rating, providing protection against water immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The newer IP68-rated models, including iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max, offer increased water resistance, allowing immersion up to 2-6 meters.

However, longevity, exposure to different liquids, and the protective nature of the case impact these ratings. Regular servicing and careful handling are essential to maintaining water resistance.

Conclusion: Trusting Professionals for iPhone Rescue

In case of water damage, turning to authorized service centers like iSupport is the safest option. With competent engineers, professional equipment, and original spare parts, iSupport ensures proper diagnostics, repair, and a warranty on the work performed. So, handle your iPhone with care, but if accidents happen, trust the experts at iSupport for a reliable rescue.

ADRESSES: Sulkhan Tsintsadze #12