Handling water damage
What can you do if your device accidentally goes through the washing machine or your child jumps into a pool?
The device’s warranty will, unfortunately, be void if this happens, but there are some steps that you can take to try and salvage it, although it is not recomended to continue to use any device when the battery within the device has been exposed to water.
GPS 4 & Watch: It is suggested to purchase a replacement device as batteries that got wet are at high risk to be dangerous. See: Ordering a Replacement Device
If your device does not regain communication after the above steps, charging, verifying it is powered on, and taking out into transit, then a replacement device will need to be purchased. See: How to purchase a Replacement Device.
GPS 4:
- Take the device out of the water as soon as possible
- Dry the outside of the device
- If the device is on and still communicating, turn it off by using Remote Shutdown
- Open the device (See this FAQ for guidance on opening your device: SIM Replacement)
- Dry the inside of the device by patting it with a soft, absorbent cloth or towel as best as possible.
- Find a well ventilated area and leave the device to air dry for at last 24-48 hours. It is important to ensure that all of the components are completely dry before reassembly and use.
- If the water was seawater, additional steps should be taken After drying the device as mentioned above since sea water is more corrosive:
- Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with isopropyl alcohol (as known as rubbing alcohol) or an electronics cleaning solution
- Carefully wipe down any areas that were wet with seawater. This will help remove any residue or salt deposits
- Allow the device to air dry again for an extended period, making sure it is completely dry before reassembling and using it.
- When putting the device back together, make sure there are no dust particles, etc.
- Put the device back to charge.
- Be careful about uncommon noises and unplug if you hear any.
- If everything looks (and sounds) fine, try sending it out with your loved one.
Watch:
- Take the device out of the water as soon as possible
- Dry the outside of the device
- If the device is on and still communicating, turn it off by using Remote Shutdown
- Find a well ventilated area and leave the device to air dry for at last 24-48 hours.
- If the water was seawater, additional steps should be taken After drying the device as mentioned above since sea water is more corrosive:
- Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with isopropyl alcohol (as known as rubbing alcohol) or an electronics cleaning solution
- Carefully wipe down any areas that were wet with seawater. This will help remove any residue or salt deposits
- Allow the device to air dry again for an extended period, making sure it is completely dry before reassembling and using it.
- Put the device back to charge.
- Be careful about uncommon noises and unplug if you hear any.
- If everything looks (and sounds) fine, try sending it out with your loved one.
This has worked for some users in the past so it is worth trying, but we cannot guarantee that it will work. See our Waterproof Options.
GPS 4 & Watch: It is suggested to purchase a replacement device as batteries that got wet are at high risk to be dangerous. See: Ordering a Replacement Device
If your device does not regain communication after the above steps, charging, verifying it is powered on, and taking out into transit, then a replacement device will need to be purchased. See: How to purchase a Replacement Device.
