Ways to Repair Water Damaged Electronics

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Phones may not turn on after being water damaged.

After investing heavily in the equipment and technology that keep your business in action, flooded electronics and the ensuing water damage can feel overwhelming. Is it possible to repair the damage on your own? 

Corrosion Damage

One of the most serious causes of damage is the corrosion caused by hidden moisture. The combination of metal, water, and oxygen creates an iron oxide or rust. This gradually breaks down the metals within your equipment. The damage may be apparent within a few hours, but it could also take days before you notice it. The damage to flooded electronics isn't limited to your equipment. Your outlets, circuit interrupters, light switches, timers, and other wired conveniences often experience electronic damage. 

Removing Corrosion

As you begin cleaning up after water damage, carefully consider the risks. It is possible and often very likely that you'll cause further damage to the equipment, and you could put yourself at risk of injury. Some solutions sold for rust removal aren't appropriate for all kinds of technology. 

• Unplug the device and remove batteries. Be aware of exposed connectors that may be fragile or affected by corrosion.
• Watch out for white or green buildup on charging ports or battery, SIM card, and metal connectors. These are areas of corrosion.
• Use cotton swabs or a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution to wash off the corrosion. The cleaning solution may be a mix of baking soda and water, vinegar, or isopropyl alcohol. If the corrosion doesn't come off with gently wiping, you may need to let the solution sit on the area and wipe it off later.
• Allow the electronics to dry completely before plugging it in or replacing batteries. Do not use a heated hair dryer on equipment. 

The best step for cleaning your electronics is to contact a professional,. You risk doing further damage to the equipment, suffering from injuries, and voiding insurance coverage or equipment warranties when you DIY this task. Keep these risks in mind before trying to clean corrosion from flooded electronics on your own.