How To Get Water Out of Phone Charger

It is challenging to get water out of the phone charger. Water damage to electronic devices, including phone chargers, can be expected. Accidental spills drops into water, or exposure to moisture can lead to malfunctioning or even permanent damage to your phone charger. However, you can safely remove water from your charger and salvage it. This article will review several techniques and advice for successfully drying out a wet phone charger.

Understanding the Risks

Knowing the dangers of water damage is essential before discussing how to dry a wet phone charger. Water, including chargers, can cause short circuits, corrosion, and other electrical issues in electronic devices. Attempting to use a damp charger with proper drying can protect the charger and the connected device, such as your smartphone or tablet.

Steps to Remove Water from a Phone Charger

1. Power Off and Disconnect

If your charger has been exposed to water, the first step is to immediately disconnect it from any power source and unplug it from your device. Turning off the power and removing any connections can help prevent further damage.

2. Inspect for Damage

Before drying off, ensure the charger is free of apparent damage, such as rust, corrosion, or water infiltration. If you notice severe damage, replace the charger to avoid potential risks.

3. Pat Dry with a Cloth

Use a dry cloth to gently massage the charger’s surface to remove any remaining water. Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers or heaters, as they can further damage the charger or its internal parts.  

4. Rice Method

One popular method for drying electronic devices is the rice method. After adding uncooked rice to a container, place the wet charger inside and let it sit for at least 24 to 48 hours. Rice has hygroscopic properties, meaning it can absorb moisture from the surrounding environment, aiding in drying.

5. Silica Gel Packs

Alternatively, you can use silica gel packs, commonly found in packaging for electronic devices and other products. Place the wet charger in a sealable bag with several silica gel packs and leave it for a day or two. Silica gel is highly absorbent and can help draw moisture from the charger.

6. Use a Vacuum Cleaner

If the vacuum hose attachment is a vacuum cleaner, you can remove any moisture from the charger’s ports and apertures. Be gentle to avoid damaging the charger’s components.

7. Isopropyl Alcohol

If the water exposure is due to something other than clean water, such as saltwater or beverages, residue may be left behind after drying. To clean the impacted areas and gently remove any residue, use isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab. Ensure the charger is completely dry before reconnecting it to a power source.

8. Professional Assistance

If you need help with proceeding or if the charger doesn’t work correctly after drying, seek professional assistance. Electronics repair technicians have the expertise and tools to assess the extent of the damage and potentially repair the charger.

9. Preventive Measures

To minimise the risk of water damage to your phone charger in the future, consider taking the following preventive measures:

• Keep chargers away from water sources and moisture-prone areas.
• Invest in water-resistant or waterproof chargers for added protection.
• Use protective cases or covers for chargers, especially when travelling or in outdoor environments.
• Avoid charging your device near water or while it’s wet.
• Examine chargers regularly for indications of wear and tear or damage.

Conclusion

Water damage can significantly risk the functionality of phone chargers and other electronic devices. However, by following the steps outlined in this guide and taking preventive measures, you can effectively remove water from a wet phone charger and potentially salvage it. Remember to prioritise safety and caution throughout the drying process, and don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed. You can ensure dependable charging for your devices and prolong the life of your phone charger with the proper maintenance and care.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use my phone charger immediately after it gets wet?

Using a wet phone charger immediately after exposure to water is not recommended. Water can cause short circuits and other electrical issues that may damage the charger and your device. Drying the charger thoroughly before attempting to use it again is essential.

Is using a hairdryer or heater to dry a wet phone charger safe?

Using heat sources like hairdryers or heaters to dry a wet phone charger is not advisable. Heat can cause further damage to the charger’s components or even lead to overheating. I use gentle drying methods like air-drying or desiccants like rice or silica gel.

How long should I dry my phone charger in rice or silica gel?

The duration for drying a wet phone charger in rice or silica gel can vary depending on the extent of water exposure and the humidity levels. Place the charger in the desiccant for at least 24 to 48 hours to guarantee complete drying. It is advised that, however, in some cases, it may take longer for the moisture to be absorbed entirely.

What should I do if my phone charger doesn’t work after drying?

If your phone charger doesn’t work correctly even after drying it thoroughly, underlying damage may require professional attention. Seeking assistance from an electronics repair professional is recommended, as they can assess the damage and determine whether the charger involves replacement or repair.  

How can I prevent water damage to my phone charger in the future? 

Preventing water damage to your phone charger involves:

• Taking proactive measures such as keeping chargers away from water sources.
• Use water-resistant or waterproof chargers.
• Using protective cases or covers.

Additionally, avoiding charging devices near water or while wet and regularly inspecting chargers for signs of damage can help minimise the risk of water damage.