Can My Phone be Fixed After Being Dropped in the Toilet?

Many of us have experienced the heartache of dropping our phone into a toilet or being exposed to water in some way. The smartest phone like the Galaxy A72, which is water-resistant, still can suffer severe damage from water exposure. Here are the steps you should take to assess the damage and hopefully fix your device.

Diagnosing the Damage

Here are the telltale signs that your phone is damaged:

The screen won't show: Check if there are any visible signs of damage on the screen. Even if it’s a water-resistant phone, prolonged exposure to water can still cause internal damage.

No display but vibration when charged: This indicates that your phone is at least getting a charge, but the internal components might be malfunctioning.

Before you proceed with any further steps, dry the phone completely. Untreated water can fry the internal components of your phone, locking it up permanently.

Drying the Phone

The first thing you should do is place the phone in a container filled with uncooked rice for several days. Rice is an old but effective method for absorbing moisture. However, it is just one part of the drying process. Here is what you should do:

Immersion in Rice: Place the phone in a container and fill it with uncooked rice. Leave it for a minimum of 2 days. Check the phone_daily to ensure it's still covered in rice.

Wait Before Charging: Do not attempt to turn on the phone or connect the charger until it has been dry for at least 2 days. Give it a good 10 minutes of charging to check if it comes back to life.

Monitor the Charge: If the phone shows no signs of life, it might be best to take it to a professional repair shop. Internal damage could be irreparable even after the drying process.

Additional Tips for Water Damage

There are other ways in which you can handle water-damaged phones:

Pick up the phone: Carefully remove the phone from the water, turn it off if it is still on, and avoid touching any of the internal components. This is especially important if it was exposed to salt water; rinse the phone with clean freshwater and then dry it thoroughly.

Check the Charger: Sometimes, the issue might not be with the phone itself but with the charger. Try cleaning the charging port with a toothpick or a pin to remove any debris that could be causing the issue.

Suitable Drying Environment: The airflow method is often more effective than using rice. Ensure the phone is in a dry, well-ventilated area to let it dry completely. If you're using an oven to test drying, make sure it's at a cool temperature (40-50°C) and monitor it closely.

Remember, if you do not feel confident in your ability to open the phone or if the situation seems beyond what you can handle, it is best to take your phone to a professional repair shop.

Conclusion

While phones are designed to withstand water to a certain extent, severe exposure can still lead to damage. By following these steps, you might be able to save your device or at least get an idea of the extent of the damage. If you find that the internal components are not dry or if the phone does not respond, it's best to consult a professional to ensure that it is fixed correctly.