how to get water out of your iphone

How long should I wait before turning my wet iPhone back on?

You should wait at least 48 hours, and preferably 72 hours, before attempting to power on a wet iPhone. This extended waiting period gives any remaining water ample time to evaporate and minimizes the risk of short-circuiting the device’s internal components when power is applied.

Even if your iPhone *appears* dry, there could be hidden moisture trapped inside the device, especially around connectors and sensitive circuitry. Turning it on prematurely can cause irreversible damage. Think of it like trying to start a car with a flooded engine – the longer you wait and let it dry out, the better the chances of avoiding serious problems. During this waiting period, ensure the iPhone is powered off and ideally placed in a dry environment with good airflow. You can also gently tap the phone (charging port facing down) to encourage any trapped water to escape. Avoid using heat sources like hairdryers or placing the iPhone in direct sunlight, as excessive heat can damage the battery and other components. A desiccant, such as uncooked rice or silica gel packets, can help absorb moisture, but be aware that rice can sometimes leave starch particles inside the phone. Commercial phone drying kits are a safer and more effective alternative.

Is rice really an effective way to dry out my iPhone?

No, using rice to dry out your iPhone is generally not an effective or recommended method. While it might seem intuitive, rice is not particularly absorbent and can potentially introduce dust and starch into the phone, causing further damage. There are better and safer alternatives available.

The problem with rice is two-fold. Firstly, it’s not as absorbent as many believe. Studies have shown that other materials, like silica gel packets (the kind found in new shoes), are far more effective at drawing out moisture. Secondly, the small particles of rice, including rice dust and starch, can actually get lodged inside the iPhone’s ports and crevices. This can hinder the drying process, create blockages, and even lead to corrosion over time. The starch, in particular, can leave a sticky residue that attracts more debris. Instead of rice, the best initial step is to power off your iPhone immediately and gently wipe off any visible water. Then, allow the phone to air dry in a well-ventilated area. You can also try using a small vacuum cleaner to gently suction water out of the ports, being careful not to hold it too close or create static electricity. Silica gel packets are a better absorbent if you have them available. Ultimately, professional repair is often the most reliable solution for a water-damaged iPhone. Technicians have the tools and expertise to properly disassemble the device, clean internal components, and assess the extent of the damage. Trying to DIY the drying process with ineffective methods like rice may ultimately increase the cost and complexity of the professional repair.

Does the type of liquid affect the iPhone’s chance of survival?

Yes, the type of liquid an iPhone is exposed to significantly impacts its survival chances. Clean, fresh water is generally less damaging than corrosive liquids like saltwater, sugary drinks, or chemicals, because these can cause faster and more extensive corrosion of the internal components.

Liquids containing minerals, salts, or sugars are particularly detrimental. Saltwater, for example, accelerates corrosion, damaging circuits and connectors much faster than pure water. Sugary drinks leave behind sticky residue that can interfere with the proper functioning of buttons, ports, and internal components. Similarly, other chemicals can react with the phone’s internal materials, causing damage beyond simple water exposure. The longer these corrosive liquids remain inside the device, the more damage they will cause. Even if an iPhone seems to function normally after exposure to a damaging liquid, corrosion can continue internally over time, leading to latent issues that manifest weeks or months later. Therefore, professional cleaning and inspection are highly recommended after any liquid exposure beyond clean water. Immediate action, such as powering off the device and avoiding charging, can also improve survival rates regardless of the liquid type, by preventing short circuits and further damage.

Will AppleCare cover water damage to your iPhone?

Generally, standard AppleCare does *not* cover water damage to your iPhone. However, AppleCare+ *does* offer coverage for accidental damage, which *can* include water damage, but it comes with a service fee or deductible per incident.

While your original AppleCare warranty primarily covers manufacturing defects and hardware issues that arise under normal use, liquid damage is almost always classified as accidental damage caused by the user. This is because iPhones, although water-resistant to varying degrees depending on the model, are not waterproof and can still be damaged by submersion or exposure to liquids. Standard AppleCare won’t assist with repairs stemming from this type of damage. AppleCare+, on the other hand, specifically includes coverage for accidental damage. This means you can get your water-damaged iPhone repaired or replaced under AppleCare+, but you will be responsible for paying a predetermined service fee, which varies depending on the iPhone model. Importantly, even with AppleCare+, there are limits to how many accidental damage claims you can make during your coverage period, so using a claim for water damage will count toward that limit. Always check the specific terms and conditions of your AppleCare+ plan for complete details on coverage and fees.

Are there any apps that can help eject water from your iPhone’s speakers?

Yes, there are apps available that claim to help eject water from your iPhone’s speakers by playing a specific tone or frequency. These apps exploit the principle that sound waves can cause vibrations, which in turn may dislodge water trapped inside the speaker cavity. While not a guaranteed fix, they are a common and often helpful method for dealing with minor water ingress.

These apps generally work by playing a low-frequency sound, often around 165Hz, that creates vibrations. The idea is that these vibrations will shake the water loose and push it out of the speaker grille. Many are free or offer a free trial, making them a low-risk option to try. Some even allow you to adjust the frequency of the sound wave for more customized results. It is important to note, however, that these apps are most effective when the amount of water in the speaker is minimal; severe water damage will require professional repair. It’s crucial to use these apps responsibly. Avoid playing the sound at maximum volume for extended periods, as this could potentially damage the speaker. Furthermore, always back up your iPhone before attempting any water removal method, including using these apps, to prevent data loss in case of unexpected issues. If the water damage is significant or the problem persists after using an app, seeking professional help from Apple or a qualified repair technician is the best course of action.

• Examples of Apps: Sonic, Speaker Cleaner, Water Eject

Alright, you’ve given it your best shot! Hopefully, one of these tricks did the trick and your iPhone is back in business. If not, don’t despair – it might be time to consult a professional. Thanks for reading, and we hope you’ll stop by again for more helpful tips and tricks to keep your tech running smoothly!