If your phone falls into water, the first priority is to remove the device from the water as quickly as possible. Do not try to charge the gadget immediately after removing it, as this may lead to irreversible damage to the device. RuStore product manager told Gazeta.Ru about this Alexander Rusnakreports Day.Az.
“When you drop your phone into water, it is first important to dry the phone using a soft, lint-free cloth or dry cloth, not forgetting the connectors and ports. After drying the phone from the outside, you can remove the SIM card tray. Do not use compressed air or detergents, even if When dropped, there is dirt on the phone. If the phone was connected to another device with a wire, do not try to charge the phone, as this may damage it,” he explained.
Secondly, you can check the degree of water resistance (it can be easily found on the Internet) to assess how likely the device is to be damaged. Thus, devices with IP67 type can withstand short-term immersion, and with IP68, a device can be used at a depth of 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes without fear for its integrity.
“Before removing the SIM card, make sure that the device is free of moisture and dust. Some devices have a liquid contact indicator. For example, on the iPhone it is present in the headphone jack (for models released before 2016) or inside the SIM card tray connector ( for models released after 2016). In normal condition, the indicator is white or silver, but upon contact with liquid it turns red,” the expert noted.
For drying, it is strictly not recommended to use a hairdryer or other sources of rapid air flow, as high temperatures can damage the internal components of the phone and aggravate the situation.
The best solution would be natural drying in a cool and dry place.
After all procedures, it is important to leave the smartphone on a flat surface in a warm room. Alexander Rusnak emphasized: before turning on the device, charging or connecting Lightning or USB-C accessories, wait at least 5 hours – during this time the moisture should evaporate.
“If, after all the measures taken, the phone does not turn on or is malfunctioning, you should contact a service center. Specialists will be able to carry out professional diagnostics and bring the device back to life. Do not try to disassemble the phone yourself if you do not have the appropriate skills and tools – this can lead to even more problems damage,” he added.
What are the immediate steps to take if my phone falls into water?
Time.news Editor: Welcome to the Time.news interview series! Today, we’re diving into a topic that many of us can relate to—what to do when your phone takes an unexpected plunge into water. Joining us is Alexander Rusnak, a knowledgeable product manager from RuStore, who’s here to share his insights on this common mishap. Alexander, it’s great to have you!
Alexander Rusnak: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this important topic.
Editor: Let’s get straight to it. When someone drops their phone in water, what’s the very first thing they should do?
Rusnak: The first and foremost priority is to remove the device from the water as quickly as possible. Every second counts when it comes to minimizing potential damage.
Editor: That makes perfect sense. Once it’s out of the water, what’s next?
Rusnak: After retrieving the phone, do not attempt to charge it immediately. Charging a wet phone could lead to irreversible damage. Instead, you should dry the outside of the device using a soft, lint-free cloth. Be sure to pay special attention to the connectors and ports.
Editor: Would you recommend any other specific steps after drying the phone?
Rusnak: Absolutely! Once you’ve dried the exterior, it’s wise to remove the SIM card tray. It’s crucial to avoid using compressed air or detergents, even if dirt has splashed onto the phone. This could potentially push water further into the device or cause additional complications.
Editor: That’s some valuable advice. What about assessing the device’s water resistance? How can someone do that?
Rusnak: Checking the water resistance rating of the device is a great idea. Most smartphones have an IP rating that indicates their level of resistance to water. For example, devices with an IP67 rating can withstand short-term immersion in water. This information is typically available online.
Editor: So, understanding a device’s water resistance can really help gauge the potential for damage. Is there anything else users should keep in mind while dealing with a wet phone?
Rusnak: Yes, patience is essential. If your phone has been soaked, it’s often recommended to leave it to dry in a safe space for at least 24 to 48 hours. Avoid the temptation to rush things; using it while it’s still damp can lead to malfunctions.
Editor: That’s a helpful reminder! Lastly, Alexander, how can someone best prevent water damage in the first place?
Rusnak: A preventative approach is the best route. Using a high-quality waterproof case and being conscious of your surroundings—like keeping your phone away from water-prone areas—can drastically reduce the risk of accidents.
Editor: Fantastic advice, Alexander! Thank you for sharing your expertise with us today. I’m sure our readers will benefit from these tips.
Rusnak: Thank you for having me! I hope everyone keeps their phones safe and dry!