It’s one of the most gut-wrenching tech moments: your phone slipping from your hand and plunging into water—be it the sink, the toilet, or a puddle. Whether you’re using the latest iPhone or a high-end Samsung model, water damage can lead to serious problems if not handled properly. But don’t panic. We spoke with cell phone repair experts in Vancouver to find out exactly what you should (and shouldn’t) do next.
What Happens When a Phone Gets Wet?
Modern smartphones like the iPhone 14 or Samsung Galaxy S24 come with some degree of water resistance. However, water-resistant doesn’t mean waterproof, and even brief exposure to moisture can still harm internal components—especially if the phone is submerged or exposed to saltwater.
Water damage can impact:
- Touchscreen responsiveness
- Speaker and microphone quality
- Charging ports
- Camera functionality
- Internal circuits leading to short circuits
The longer the moisture sits inside, the higher the chances of permanent damage.
Step-by-Step: What You Should Do Immediately
Here’s what Vancouver repair professionals recommend doing the moment your phone gets wet:
1. Turn It Off Immediately
Don’t test it. Don’t press buttons. If the phone is still on, power it off immediately. Pressing buttons could push water deeper into the device.
2. Don’t Charge It
Plugging a wet phone into a charger is a guaranteed way to fry the internals. Avoid connecting it to any power source until it’s fully dry and inspected.
3. Remove Accessories and SIM Card
Take off your phone case, unplug headphones, and remove the SIM card and SD card if possible. This will help the phone air out and prevent rusting of the ports and contacts.
4. Use a Microfiber Cloth to Dry the Exterior
Gently pat dry the phone using a lint-free cloth. Avoid using paper towels or tissues as they may leave debris behind.
5. Skip the Rice Trick
Although common, placing your phone in rice is not very effective. It might absorb surface moisture, but won’t remove water trapped inside the phone. Plus, rice particles can get stuck in the charging port.
6. Use a Vacuum or Air Duster (Gently)
If you have access to a handheld vacuum or air duster, use it on low power to try and draw moisture out. Avoid using heat (like a hairdryer), which can damage the components.
7. Bring It to a Professional Repair Shop
If you’re in Vancouver, bringing your phone to a cell phone repair specialist is the safest and most effective option. Professionals can open your device, inspect the components, and clean any corrosion or moisture that may have developed inside.
Why Time Matters
Corrosion can begin within hours after water exposure. The longer you wait, the more likely your device will suffer irreversible damage. Even if your phone appears to work fine, issues might arise weeks later due to trapped moisture. That’s why acting quickly—and getting a proper inspection—is crucial.
Which Phones Are Most Affected?
Some phones handle water exposure better than others. Here's a quick rundown of how recent models fare:
iPhones (e.g., iPhone 13, 14, 15 Pro Max)
Rated IP68, meaning they can handle 30 minutes in water up to 6 meters deep. However, repeated exposure or salt/chlorine water can still be harmful.
Samsung Galaxy Phones (e.g., S22, S23, S24 Ultra)
Also rated IP68, but Samsung themselves warn against prolonged water contact, especially around the charging port.
Still, both brands suggest avoiding water exposure whenever possible. Water resistance ratings are tested in controlled lab environments—not real-life accidents.
Common Water Damage Repairs in Vancouver
At CellFixx, some of the most frequent water-related repairs include:
- Charging port replacement
- Logic board cleaning and diagnostics
- Camera replacement (due to fogging or corrosion)
- Speaker and mic repair
- Screen replacement (if damage causes touch issues)
The good news? Many water-damaged phones can be repaired—especially if addressed early.
How Much Does Water Damage Repair Cost?
Water damage repair pricing varies depending on the severity and the phone model:
- Basic cleaning & diagnostics: $60–$100
- Component replacement (e.g., screen, ports): $100–$300
- Logic board repairs: $200+
Most Vancouver repair shops offer free or low-cost diagnostics so you can understand the damage before committing to a full repair.
Can You Claim Water Damage Under Warranty?
Unfortunately, most manufacturer warranties (Apple, Samsung) do not cover water damage—even if your phone is water-resistant. Check your coverage to be sure, but in most cases, out-of-warranty repair is your only option.
Prevention Tips Going Forward
Once you’ve gone through a water damage scare, you’ll likely want to avoid it in the future. Here’s how:
- Invest in a waterproof phone pouch if you’re going near water (beaches, pools, hiking, etc.)
- Use a high-quality case with port covers
- Avoid placing your phone near sinks, bathtubs, or toilets
- Don't use your phone in heavy rain
And remember, water-resistance degrades over time—so the older your phone, the less you should rely on its original rating.
Final Thoughts
Water damage doesn’t always mean the end of your phone. If you act fast and avoid DIY mistakes, there’s a good chance a qualified technician can save it. Vancouver has many reliable cell phone repair services available—whether you’re looking for iPhone repair, Samsung phone repair, or general cell phone repair in Vancouver.
If your phone takes a dip, get it checked immediately—your best chance at recovery is acting early.