Does Putting a Water-Damaged Phone in Rice Actually Work?
The effect of putting a phone in a bag of rice – the internals get corroded. These should be flushed.
A common myth about liquid-damaged smartphones is that putting them in a bag of rice will fix them. Many people believe rice can absorb moisture from inside the device, restoring it to working condition. However, this is far from the truth. While rice may absorb some external moisture, it does not address the real issue—corrosion and mineral buildup inside the phone.
If your device has been exposed to water or another liquid, the best course of action is to seek professional help. If you are in Brisbane, visit a trusted iPhone repair centre in Brisbane CBD for a thorough assessment. In this article, we’ll explain why rice doesn’t work, the risks of DIY liquid damage repair, and the proper way to restore a water-damaged phone.
Why Rice Doesn’t Fix Liquid Damage
1. Corrosion Starts Immediately
Once water enters a phone, corrosion begins almost instantly. The main board and other electronic components are highly sensitive to moisture. Even if the device appears to work after drying, unseen damage may continue to spread over time, leading to sudden failure days or weeks later.
2. Rice Can’t Remove Liquid or Minerals
The problem with liquid damage isn’t just the water itself—it’s also the impurities and minerals left behind after the liquid evaporates. Water carries minerals that settle on circuits, causing short circuits or rust. Rice does nothing to remove these residues, meaning the phone may still have internal damage even if it appears dry.
3. Trapped Moisture and Residue
Phones are designed with tight seals, meaning moisture can become trapped inside even after external drying. Rice does not create airflow or provide any mechanism to remove liquid from internal components effectively. In many cases, the moisture stays inside the phone, worsening corrosion.
4. Dust and Starch Can Cause More Harm
Rice grains produce fine dust and starch particles that can enter charging ports, headphone jacks, or speaker grills, further damaging internal components. This can make a repair even more challenging and costly.
5. Delaying Proper Repair Can Lead to Permanent Damage
Leaving a phone in rice for days delays professional repair, allowing more time for corrosion to spread. The longer you wait, the less likely it is that your phone can be saved.
The Proper Way to Handle Water-Damaged Phones
If your phone has been exposed to water, follow these steps immediately to improve its chances of recovery:
- Turn It Off Immediately – Keeping the phone on while it is wet increases the risk of short circuits.
- Do Not Charge or Use It – Plugging in a wet phone can cause severe damage to the battery and motherboard.
- Remove the SIM Card and Accessories – If possible, take out the SIM card, memory card, and any cases or covers.
- Gently Dry the Exterior – Use a lint-free cloth to remove excess liquid, but do not use heat, as it can further damage components.
- Bring It to a Professional Repair Shop – The sooner your phone is professionally cleaned, the higher the chance of saving it.
Professional Liquid Damage Repair Process Brisbane
Unlike DIY methods, professional repair shops use specialized techniques to restore water-damaged devices. At Screen Fixed, we offer expert liquid damage repair in Brisbane, using advanced tools and techniques:
1. Full Disassembly
Technicians take apart the phone to inspect all components, including the motherboard, battery, and screen.
2. Ultrasonic Cleaning
The phone’s internal components are cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner, which removes minerals, corrosion, and contaminants left by the liquid.
3. Isopropyl Alcohol Flush
Isopropyl alcohol is used to flush out any remaining liquid, displacing water and cleaning electrical connections.
4. Drying and Testing
After cleaning, the device is carefully dried and tested to determine which components still function and which may need replacement.
5. Component-Level Repair
If necessary, technicians repair or replace damaged chips, connectors, or screens. Samsung Galaxy water damage repairs and iPhone water damage repairs in Brisbane often require replacing charging ports, battery connectors, or screens.
Estimated Cost for Liquid Damage Repairs
Water damage repairs vary depending on the severity of the damage. Below is a general pricing guide:
- Standard Liquid Damage Cleaning: $150 – $250
- Chip-Level Repairs (If Required): Additional $100 – $200
- Service Fee (If Repair Is Not Possible): $45
Every case is different, and we provide a thorough diagnosis before proceeding with repairs.
Common Questions About Water-Damaged Phones
1. How soon should I bring my phone in for repair after water exposure?
The sooner, the better! The longer water sits inside, the more corrosion spreads. Ideally, bring it in within hours of exposure.
2. Can a water-damaged phone be fully restored?
It depends on the extent of the damage. Some phones can be fully repaired, while others may require component replacements. In severe cases, the phone may not be salvageable.
3. Does liquid damage affect phone warranties?
Yes, most manufacturers do not cover water damage under warranty. However, professional repair may be more cost-effective than replacing the device.
4. My phone still works after getting wet. Do I need a repair?
Even if your phone works, unseen damage could cause it to fail later. A professional inspection can prevent future issues.
5. What if my phone was dropped in saltwater or other liquids?
Saltwater is even more corrosive than fresh water. The device should be professionally cleaned as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage.
Conclusion: Skip the Rice, Get Professional Repair
The myth that rice can fix a water-damaged phone is outdated and ineffective. While it may absorb surface moisture, it does not remove internal liquid or prevent corrosion. Instead of relying on ineffective home remedies, bring your device to a professional iPhone repair centre in Brisbane CBD or a trusted Samsung Galaxy water damage repair specialist.
If your phone has suffered liquid damage, don’t wait—visit Screen Fixed today for expert MacBook liquid damage repair, iPhone water damage repairs Brisbane, and more. We offer fast, reliable service to get your device working again!
Ben
