iPhones are prone to water damage, whether near a pool, in the bathroom, or from accidental drops. While modern models are water-resistant, they're not waterproof. If water damage occurs, it's crucial to act quickly. This guide from Phonefix outlines the steps and tools to help minimize the damage.
I. Emergency Steps After Water Damage
1. Remove the iPhone from the water
Once your iPhone contacts water, act quickly. Remove it from the water and place it in a dry area, away from water sources. Avoid pressing buttons to prevent short circuits or other malfunctions.
2. Power off the device
Although iPhones come with water resistance, it's best to avoid turning the phone on immediately after water exposure. Powering off the phone as soon as possible can help prevent short circuits in the internal components. To power off:
· For iPhone X or newer: Press and hold the side button and a volume button, then slide the power slider to turn off the device.
· For older models: Press and hold the top or side button until the power slider appears, then slide to turn off the phone.
3. Remove the case and accessories
If your Phone has a iPhone Protect Case, remove it promptly to allow the phone to ventilate and prevent water from being trapped. Disconnect any external accessories such as headphones, chargers, or other devices to prevent water from affecting other parts of the phone.
II. Initial Drying of the Phone
Step 1. Wipe off the water
Once your iPhone is powered off and removed from the water, use a clean, lint-free absorbent cloth to wipe off as much water as possible from the phone's surface, charging port, volume buttons, and other areas. Microfiber cloths are recommended for this task as they effectively remove moisture without leaving behind fibers. Ensure the ports are completely dry to prevent corrosion or further damage.
Step 2. Tilt and tap the phone
Hold your iPhone flat and gently tap the bottom of the phone to help expel the water. Position the speaker and charging port facing down, tilt the phone slightly, and tap it gently. Avoid shaking or dropping the phone forcefully, as this could cause more damage.
Step 3. Place it in a well-ventilated area
Place the iPhone in a warm, dry area with good airflow to speed up the drying process. Avoid using heat sources like a blow dryer, as excessive heat can damage the phone's internal circuits. A safer alternative is using silica gel packets. Place the phone in a sealed bag with a few silica gel packs for 24-48 hours; this method won’t harm your phone and will help absorb the moisture effectively.
III. Advanced Repair Procedures
If you have repair experience and the right tools, you can take more advanced steps to dry and repair the phone.
Step 1. Open the iPhone
If the water damage is severe, opening the iPhone is a more thorough solution. Use a suction cup tool to lift the front screen of the phone. The Suction Cup distributes the pressure evenly and prevents damage to the glass while disassembling the phone. You may also need a pry tool and other tools to open the back or screen.
Step 2. Clean internal components
Once the phone is open, inspect the internal components for visible water or signs of corrosion. Use 97% isopropyl alcohol to clean the motherboard and other affected parts. Isopropyl alcohol is excellent for cleaning as it effectively removes moisture and impurities without damaging the electronic components.
Step 3. Dry the components
After opening the phone, remove the battery, logic board, and other internal components, then clean them and let them dry naturally. Use a fan or other devices to speed up the drying process but avoid exposing the phone to high temperatures. All parts must be fully dry before reassembly to prevent short circuits or other issues.
IV. Assessing the Extent of Water Damage
Step 1. Check the liquid contact indicator
Every iPhone has a Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI) located near the SIM card slot. When water enters the phone, this indicator turns red. You can check this indicator to see if your iPhone has suffered water damage.
· How to check: Use a flashlight to illuminate the SIM tray and look closely at the indicator to see if it has turned red.
Step 2. Power on and check the functionality
After waiting 48-72 hours, if the phone powers on, you can check whether all functions are working as expected. You should pay attention to the following:
Display Issues: If the screen flickers or doesn't display properly, it could be due to water damage to the display flex cable.
· Audio Issues: Check if the speaker or microphone is working, as water can affect these components.
· Touchscreen Issues: Test the iPhone Display Screen response to see if it is functioning normally.
Step 3. Seek professional repair
If, after performing initial checks, the phone isn't functioning properly, it's best to contact professional repair services as soon as possible. Professional technicians can better assess the extent of the damage and provide appropriate repair services, especially if the phone has already been disassembled.
V. Conclusion
When an iPhone encounters water damage, the correct steps are crucial for recovery. By promptly powering off, cleaning, drying, and using the right tools and techniques, you can maximize the chances of restoring the iPhone's functionality. However, if you are unsure about dealing with internal water damage or other issues, it's always best to seek professional help. Addressing water damage with this guide from Phonefix helps save your iPhone!
