Accidents happen. Maybe your iPhone took a dive in the Okanagan Lake or your Samsung got splashed at the beach. Whatever the case, water damaged phones are among the most common (and panic-inducing) smartphone issues we see at Repair Express. The good news? A water damaged iPhone or Samsung device isn’t always a lost cause, but acting fast makes all the difference. Here’s your no-fluff guide to fixing water damage, deciding when DIY is safe, and knowing when it’s time to visit a trusted smartphone repair shop in Kelowna.
What to Do Immediately After Water Damage to Your Phone
Timing is everything when it comes to water damage to phones. Here’s what you should do immediately after your device gets wet:
- Turn it off: Don’t press buttons or try to check if it still works. Powering a water damaged device can short-circuit the components.
- Remove the case and SIM card: The key is to allow as much airflow as possible to reduce moisture buildup.
- Dry it gently: Use a clean towel and avoid heat (like hairdryers) which can warp internal parts.
- Do NOT put it in rice: Despite the myth, rice does little for fixing water damage and can actually introduce dust and particulates into your phone.
Still not sure if the phone can be saved? Read on.
Can a Water Damaged iPhone Be Repaired? Here’s What You Need to Know
You might be surprised, a water damaged iPhone isn’t always the end of the road. While newer models are more resistant than ever, iPhone and water damage fix isn’t foolproof. Apple’s water-resistant seals can only do so much, and once water sneaks past them, your device is vulnerable to serious internal issues.
Common effects of water damage to iPhones include:
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Battery failure or swelling
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Touchscreen malfunctions and ghost touches
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Corrosion on the logic board, leading to random shutdowns or total failure
At Repair Express, we’ve completed hundreds of water damaged iPhone repairs, everything from minor moisture exposure to fully submerged devices. Whether it’s a soaked speaker or a full broken phone recovery, our techs are equipped with micro-soldering tools and diagnostic equipment to bring your phone back to life.
How Repairable Is a Water Damaged iPhone?
Several key factors determine whether fixing water damage is possible:
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How long the phone was exposed to water
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If it was powered on while wet (or immediately after)
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Type of liquid, freshwater is better than saltwater or chlorinated water
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How quickly you brought it in for professional repair
The longer you wait, the more damage water can do. Even if your phone seems to be working now, internal corrosion can lead to issues down the road. If your iPhone is broken after water damage, don’t delay and bring it to your local iPhone repair shop in Kelowna for a proper inspection.
At Repair Express, we specialize in fast, honest service for water damaged phones, with upfront pricing and real solutions. Whether you need a simple cleaning or a full water damaged iPhone repair, we’ve got your back.
Samsung Water Damage Fix: Common Issues and Solutions
Samsung phone repairs come with their own quirks. While many newer Galaxy models have IP68 water resistance ratings, damage can still happen, especially if your device is older, cracked, or submerged for too long.
Typical symptoms of water damaged Samsung phones include:
- Ghost touches or screen flickering
- Warped audio or no sound
- Fast-draining battery or won’t charge
- Device turning on and off randomly
When it comes to fixing water damage, Samsung users face one challenge: their devices can be trickier to open cleanly. Our technicians at Repair Express use heat-based tools and suction equipment to carefully disassemble and diagnose the issue. Sometimes the fix is as simple as a board cleaning. Other times, full part replacement (screen, battery, or motherboard) is needed. Either way, we’ll walk you through the best repair options.
When to Visit a Smartphone Repair Shop in Kelowna
Here’s the rule of thumb: If your phone was exposed to water for more than a few seconds, or is showing any signs of malfunction, bring it in. Your best bet? Visit a smartphone repair specialist in Kelowna!
We help with:
- Water damaged iPhone repair
- Samsung phones repairs
- Diagnosing internal corrosion
- Part replacements and cleanings
- Warranty-safe service (no shady shortcuts)
Why Repair Express?
- Same-day service: for many water damage repairs
- No fix, no fee: If it can’t be repaired, you don’t pay
- Local experts: We’re one of the top-rated iPhone repair shops in Kelowna
Let us handle the dirty (wet) work so you can get back to texting, scrolling, and snapping.
DIY Fix or Professional Help? How to Fix a Water Damaged Phone Safely
There’s a time for DIY, and there’s a time for the pros.
When DIY Might Be OK:
- The phone was splashed, not submerged
- You powered it off immediately
- There are no symptoms of malfunction (yet)
- You’re comfortable taking the risk
Some basic tips to water damaged phone care :
- Power down and remove all accessories
- Pat dry gently and leave in a ventilated area
- Use silica gel packets to absorb moisture
- Wait at least 48 hours before attempting to power on
But be warned: unseen corrosion can cause problems days or even weeks later. A phone that seems “fine” today might be your next broken phone tomorrow.
When to Skip DIY:
- Phone won’t turn off or stay on
- You see condensation inside the screen or camera
- The phone is hot, buzzing, or flickering
- It’s been more than 24 hours and it’s still not working
That’s when it’s time to contact Repair Express and let us take it from there.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Water Damage Sink Your Smartphone
Whether you’re dealing with a water damaged iPhone, a soaked Samsung, or any kind of water damage to your phone, fast action matters. DIY can help, but the safest option is a pro inspection. Repair Express is Kelowna’s go-to team for fixing water damage in smartphones of all shapes and brands. With expert tools, honest service, and local roots, we’re here to make sure your phone lives to scroll another day. Contact us today and let us bring your water-damaged phone back to life!