Water Damage Repair: What You Must Know in 2026

Introduction

Water damage is a leading cause of smartphone failure. Surprisingly, even brief exposure to liquid can corrode internal components over time. Acting fast and correctly is crucial to save your device.

What Happens When a Phone Gets Wet

Water can seep into connectors, corrode circuits, and cause short circuits — often worse than visible exterior damage.

Common Mistakes After Water Exposure

• Putting phone in rice (doesn’t effectively remove internal moisture)
• Turning it on too soon
• Charging while wet — causing electrochemical damage

Repair Process

Professional water repair includes:

1. Opening the phone and removing moisture
2. Cleaning corrosion
3. Drying and replacing damaged parts

Why Professional Repair Matters

Technicians use controlled ultrasonic machines and proper solvents that prevent damage — unlike DIY attempts that often cause more harm.

Cost & Timeframes

Cost depends on liquid exposure level and phone model. Services may take 1–3 days.

Preventive Tips

• Use waterproof cases
• Avoid water near phones
• Back up regularly in case of data loss

FAQs

Is water damage repair always possible?

Not always. Severe corrosion sometimes isn’t fixable.

Does insurance cover it?

Only with appropriate phone insurance or AppleCare+.