The dreaded water drop. It happens to the best of us, and for Galaxy S6 owners, it can be a particularly devastating experience. This sleek and powerful device is not known for its water resistance, meaning a dip in the pool or a splash in the sink could spell disaster. But don’t despair! While water damage can be serious, with the right steps, you might be able to salvage your beloved phone.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of fixing your Galaxy S6 after water exposure, outlining the steps you can take at home and when professional help is necessary.
1. Act Fast: The First 30 Minutes are Crucial
Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage. The faster you react, the higher the chance of saving your phone. The first 30 minutes after the incident are critical, so put everything else aside and focus on these steps:
1. Power Down Immediately: The first instinct might be to check if the phone is still working, but resist the urge! Turn off your Galaxy S6 right away. This prevents any electrical short circuits caused by water coming into contact with the phone’s internal components.
2. Remove Everything: Take out the SIM card, microSD card, and any other accessories. Remove the phone case if you have one. This allows for better drying and prevents any trapped moisture from causing further damage.
3. Dry it Off: Use a clean, dry cloth or towel to absorb any visible water droplets from the exterior of the phone. Be gentle and avoid pressing too hard, as you don’t want to push water further into the phone’s internals.
2. The Drying Process: A Delicate Dance
After the initial emergency steps, the focus shifts to drying the phone as thoroughly as possible. This is a delicate process that requires patience and care:
2.1 Natural Air Drying: Place your Galaxy S6 in a well-ventilated area, ideally with low humidity. Allow it to air dry for at least 24 hours, preferably longer. Do not use a hairdryer or any other heat source, as this can damage the phone’s internal components.
2.2 Rice and Silica Gel: The DIY Methods
While these methods are often touted as effective, they are less reliable than professional drying techniques.
Rice: Place your phone in a bowl of uncooked rice, ensuring it is completely submerged. Rice absorbs moisture, but it may not be able to reach all the nooks and crannies of your phone. Leave it for 24-48 hours.
Silica Gel: If you have silica gel packets (often found in shoeboxes or electronics packaging), place your phone in an airtight container with several packets. Silica gel absorbs moisture, but it might not be as efficient as professional drying methods.
2.3 Professional Drying: The safest and most effective way to dry a water-damaged phone is to take it to a professional repair shop. They have specialized equipment like vacuum chambers and infrared dryers, which can quickly and effectively remove moisture from your phone.
3. The Aftermath: Testing and Troubleshooting
Once your Galaxy S6 has been thoroughly dried, it’s time to check if it’s working again. Before turning it on, be sure to clean the charging port and headphone jack with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
3.1 Power Up: After cleaning the ports, gently turn on your Galaxy S6. If it boots up without any issues, you’re in luck! Your phone seems to have survived the water incident.
3.2 Troubleshooting: If your phone doesn’t power on or exhibits strange behavior, there might still be residual moisture or damaged components.
Check for Signs of Damage: Look for any visible signs of damage, such as corrosion on the charging port or internal components.
Test Functionality: Thoroughly test all the phone’s features, including the camera, speakers, touchscreen, and buttons. If any features are not working correctly, you might need professional assistance.
4. When Professional Help is Needed
While the steps outlined above can help address minor water damage, there are situations where seeking professional help is crucial.
4.1 Severe Water Damage: If your phone was submerged for an extended period, or you see visible signs of corrosion, it’s best to seek professional help.
4.2 Continued Malfunction: If your Galaxy S6 still exhibits strange behavior after attempting the drying steps, take it to a professional repair shop for diagnosis and potential repair.
4.3 Repair Costs: Be aware that repair costs for water damage can vary significantly depending on the extent of the damage and the repair shop’s pricing. It’s essential to get a quote before proceeding with any repairs.
5. Preventative Measures: Avoiding Future Water Disasters
Preventing water damage is always better than trying to fix it. Consider implementing these tips to protect your Galaxy S6 from future water mishaps:
5.1 Water-Resistant Cases: Invest in a high-quality waterproof phone case. These cases create a protective barrier that keeps your phone safe from splashes and spills.
5.2 Avoid Moisture-Prone Environments: Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid taking your phone into areas with high humidity or where water splashes are likely.
5.3 Keep Your Phone Dry: Wipe down your phone with a dry cloth after using it in areas with potential moisture exposure, like the gym or bathroom.
5.4 Use a Protective Screen Film: A screen protector can help protect your phone’s display from scratches and accidental water damage.
6. Conclusion: Hope for Your Galaxy S6
Dropping your Galaxy S6 in water can be a harrowing experience, but it doesn’t have to be the end. By acting quickly and following the right steps, you might be able to salvage your phone. Remember, patience and careful drying are crucial. If you experience severe water damage or any persistent problems, seek professional help to ensure your phone receives the best possible care.
With a little luck and the right approach, you might be able to restore your Galaxy S6 to its former glory, ready to take on the world once again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after my Galaxy S6 gets wet?
The first step is to act quickly and turn off your phone immediately. The faster you do this, the less chance water has to damage the internal components. Next, remove the phone from the water source and gently wipe away any excess water with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid using any force or pressure to remove the water, as this could cause further damage.
Do not attempt to turn your phone back on until it has completely dried. The most important thing is to act quickly and minimize the amount of time your phone is exposed to water.
Should I try to dry the Galaxy S6 with a hairdryer?
Using a hairdryer to dry your Galaxy S6 is strongly discouraged. The heat from the hairdryer can actually damage the delicate components inside your phone, making the situation worse. Instead, allow the phone to air dry naturally.
Place your Galaxy S6 in a dry, well-ventilated area and let it sit for at least 24 hours. Do not attempt to use the phone while it’s drying.
Will rice really help dry my Galaxy S6?
While placing your Galaxy S6 in a bowl of uncooked rice is a common home remedy, it’s not the most effective method for drying a water-damaged phone. The rice absorbs moisture, but it’s not a guaranteed solution. It’s better to use a professional drying solution or allow the phone to air dry naturally.
There are commercially available drying solutions that are more effective at removing moisture from electronic devices. These solutions are designed to penetrate the device and remove moisture without causing damage.
Can I use a vacuum cleaner to suck out the water?
Using a vacuum cleaner to suck out water from your Galaxy S6 is not recommended. The vacuum cleaner’s suction power could cause further damage to the delicate internal components of your phone. Instead, focus on allowing the phone to air dry naturally.
The most important thing is to prevent any further damage to the phone by avoiding unnecessary actions that could make the situation worse.
How long should I wait before trying to turn on my Galaxy S6 again?
It’s important to wait at least 24 hours before attempting to turn on your Galaxy S6 after it has been exposed to water. This allows enough time for the phone to dry completely and prevents potential damage from residual moisture.
If the phone still doesn’t turn on after 24 hours, you may need to consider taking it to a professional for further inspection and repair.
Should I take my Galaxy S6 to a repair shop if it doesn’t turn on?
If your Galaxy S6 still doesn’t turn on after 24 hours of drying, it’s best to take it to a reputable repair shop. A professional technician can diagnose the problem and determine if the damage is repairable.
Attempting to repair the phone yourself could lead to further damage, so it’s always best to leave it to the experts.
Will my Galaxy S6 warranty cover water damage?
Most manufacturer warranties do not cover water damage. This is because water damage is considered a result of user negligence, not a manufacturing defect.
If your Galaxy S6 is still under warranty, you might want to check with the manufacturer to see if there are any exceptions or specific coverage for water damage. However, it’s unlikely that the warranty will cover the repair costs.