If your iPhone has been exposed to water, you may be wondering if it is still safe and functional to use. Water can cause serious damage to electronic devices like smartphones, so it is understandable to have concerns about continued use of a water-damaged iPhone.
Quick Answers
Here are some quick answers to common questions about using an iPhone after water damage:
Is it safe to use an iPhone after water damage?
It depends on the extent of the water exposure. Minor exposure may not affect function, but prolonged submersion can cause corrosion and shorts that could be unsafe.
Can I still use apps and features if my iPhone got wet?
You may be able to use apps and features normally if exposure was brief. With extended exposure, functionality could be impacted due to hardware damage.
Will my iPhone work normally after drying out from water?
An iPhone may seem to work normally at first after drying from minor water exposure. But issues like corrosion can develop over time, so it’s best to have it checked out.
How do I dry out my wet iPhone safely?
Gently wipe excess moisture with a soft cloth. Place the iPhone in front of a fan or in a bag of rice to absorb remaining moisture. Do not use external heat sources.
Assessing Water Damage
If your iPhone has gotten wet, the first step is to assess the extent of the water exposure and damage. This will help determine if it is safe to keep using your iPhone or if you need to dry it out, repair it, or replace it.
Amount of water exposure
More extensive water exposure means a higher chance of serious damage. If your iPhone was accidentally dropped in water briefly and immediately retrieved, the amount of water intrusion may be minimal. Prolonged submersion, on the other hand, gives greater opportunity for water to get into sensitive electronic components.
Saltwater versus freshwater
Saltwater is more conductive and corrosive than freshwater. If your iPhone was exposed to saltwater, such as at the beach or pool, the chance of corrosion damage is greater.
Depth of water submersion
The deeper the iPhone was submerged, the higher the water pressure forcing water into small crevices and openings. Shallow submersion may limit internal water intrusion compared to deeper submersion.
Water entry points
Water exposure can happen through charging ports, headphone jacks, speaker openings, and gaps between components. Newer iPhone models have increased water resistance but are not completely impervious.
Immediate functionality
If your iPhone suffers water damage but still seems to function normally right after exposure, the internal damage may be less extensive. However, issues can show up over time as corrosion develops.
Safety Hazards
Using an iPhone after water damage poses some potential safety hazards you should be aware of.
Electrical shorts
If water reaches the internal electronics of an iPhone, it can cause electrical shorts and current leaks. Attempting to charge or use a water-damaged device could result in overheating, fire, or electric shock.
Corrosion
Exposing the metal contacts and circuits in an iPhone to water leads to corrosion over time. Corroded parts may retain dangerous high voltages that could shock the user.
Battery issues
The lithium-ion battery in iPhones can malfunction if water damaged. This could result in overheating, spontaneous battery fires, or explosions.
Damaged connections
Water can damage connectors for cables, charging, headphones, etc. If connections are compromised, using damaged cords with your phone raises risks of electric shorts or fires.
Functionality Issues
Aside from safety concerns, water damage may impact features and performance of your iPhone.
Display screen
Water seeping behind the iPhone’s display screen can cause fogging effects, blurred or distorted visuals, flickering, and touchscreen issues.
Cameras
If water reaches the cameras, flash, or other optics, photos and videos may have quality issues or the cameras could stop working entirely.
Speakers and mics
Small openings for speaker channels and microphones are prone to water intrusion. This can muffle or disable sound for media and calls.
Connectivity problems
Water damage around SIM card, antennae, Bluetooth, WiFi, or cellular data ports may lead to network connectivity problems.
Corrosion build up
Corrosion that develops over time after water exposure can progressively degrade overall performance and function across the device.
Drying Out Your iPhone
If your iPhone suffered minor water exposure, promptly drying it out well can possibly restore normal function and reduce long-term damage. Here are some dos and don’ts for drying out a wet iPhone.
DO gently wipe off excess moisture
Use a soft lint-free cloth to lightly blot away any water or dampness on the surface of the iPhone and openings like the charging port.
DO allow it to air dry
Leave your iPhone in a well-ventilated area at room temperature to allow water to fully evaporate.
DO place it in front of a fan
Directing airflow from a fan over your iPhone will speed up evaporation of moisture.
DO use desiccant packs
Placing your iPhone in an airtight bag with desiccant packs pulls moisture out.
DO immerse it in rice
Rice absorbs ambient moisture effectively. Bury your iPhone in a bowl of uncooked rice for at least 24 hours.
DON’T use external heat
Avoid hairdryers, ovens, or other heat sources that could overheat and damage components.
DON’T charge it while wet
Only charge your iPhone after it is fully dry to avoid electrical issues.
DON’T turn it on until dry
Powering up before all moisture is evaporated could short circuit components.
DON’T disassemble it
Taking apart your iPhone to dry out internal parts is not recommended and can void any warranty.
When to Replace Your iPhone
Even with proper drying, water damage may degrade your iPhone to the point where replacement is the best option. Consider replacing your iPhone if:
- It was submerged deeply for a prolonged time
- It has clear evidence of rust or corrosion
- It won’t power on or continuously reboots
- The touchscreen is unresponsive or displays abnormal visual artifacts
- You get electric shocks from it
- It has a swollen battery
- It emits any burning or hazardous odors
Replacement is safest if your iPhone sustained extensive water damage. Cost may factor into the decision to replace versus attempting repair. Consult with Apple support for best next steps for your situation.
Professional Repair Options
For an iPhone with moderate water damage where functionality is impacted but there are no major safety issues, professional repair may be an alternative to replacement.
Apple repair
Apple offers flat rate out-of-warranty repair pricing for iPhones, current pricing starting at $299. Contact Apple Support to arrange mail-in or drop-off service.
Third party repair
Reputable independent repair shops can service water damaged iPhones, sometimes at lower prices than Apple. Search for shops with strong reviews and trained technicians.
Mail-in repair services
Mail-in services like iCracked and uBreakiFix accept shipped iPhones for inspection and repair. Pricing is often less than Apple but turnaround time may be slower.
Local repair pros
Search sites like Yelp to find independent iPhone repair technicians in your area to get quotes and reviews of service quality.
Preventing iPhone Water Damage
While accidents happen, you can take measures to reduce the likelihood of your iPhone getting water damaged in the first place.
Use waterproof case
Protect your iPhone with a sturdy waterproof case when going to the beach, pool, boating, or other high-risk situations.
Avoid baths and showers
Refrain from taking your iPhone into the bath or shower to eliminate a prime opportunity for water exposure.
Keep away from sinks
Exercise caution when washing hands or doing dishes to avoid placing your iPhone near running water or splash zones.
Store in dry places
Keep your iPhone in dry locations like countertops or desks rather than damp areas like bathrooms or basements.
Check for water resistance
When purchasing a new iPhone, opt for water resistant models like the iPhone 7 or newer which are designed to better withstand water exposure.
Conclusion
Minor water exposure may not seriously impact an iPhone, but prolonged submersion can create both safety issues and damage affecting functionality. Thoroughly drying out a wet iPhone, having it professionally repaired, or replacing it are the main options. Being mindful of water risks and taking preventive measures will also help avoid problems. Ultimately, responsible precautions around water are wise for protecting your iPhone investment.