How to Save Your Laptop from Water Damage.

I think one of the worst things that can happen to any laptop user is to find their laptop damaged. But it will probably be more devastating if the damage is from water. This is because everybody knows gadgets and water (except for probably water-proof gadgets) don’t work together. And considering laptops do not come cheap, it is surely a devastating event for anyone involved. Now, we know that sometimes, being careful doesn’t prevent come certain things from happening. So what do you do when water or any liquid spills or pours on your laptop? You could panic or do something to try to save your laptop.

What do you do? Find some of the tips to save your laptop from water damage below.

Turn It Off

The first thing to do when liquid spills or pours on your laptop is to turn it off. This is to prevent circuit damage and it will save your laptop from shorting out. Plus, you will need to shut it down to do the other things required to save your laptop from water damage. If you are working on a document, quickly save the document and press down on the power button to turn it off. If your laptop is connected to a charger, remove the charging cable as well from the laptop and the socket. And if it is powered by a power outlet, make sure to switch the wall socket first before removing the power lead. 

Put It Upside Down to Dry 

Turn the laptop upside-down immediately to prevent the water from getting to the machine to causing damage. Open it up and place it upside down in a V shape on a flat surface to get the liquid to spill out and not into the machine. 

Unplug All Accessories

Remember that it is not just your laptop you want to save, you want to make sure all your accessories are safe as well. So unplug any accessory connected to the laptop, including mouse, keyboard, SD card and external hard drive. Besides that, if you have a keyboard that is easily detachable, then you should remove it as well. Then use a clean soft absorbent cloth to soak up around the area and especially, if you find any moisture around the area. 

Open Up the Laptop

You can also remove the battery if it is easily detachable or open up the computer if you can handle it. If not, get an expert. If you can, open up the laptop, then soak up the moisture using a clean, soft absorbent cloth or towel. Opening the laptop can also further help with drying the laptop as this will allow air to penetrate even deeper to dry the laptop. So, after opening the laptop up and soaking up the moisture, let it dry for 24 - 48 hours. Don’t make the mistake of switching on your laptop prematurely. Let it dry out before attempting to put it on. 

Seek Expert Help

If after all these, your laptop still doesn’t work, then you should seek expert help. The damage caused by water spillage varies. Depending on the severity of the damage, you can still recover and save your laptop from water damage. If not, you might be able to recover your data and files at least. But you won’t know until you try a technician who will access the damage and give you a verdict. 

To conclude, let me emphasise once again that you cannot afford to turn on your laptop without allowing it to dry. So, don’t be in a hurry to put on your laptop after liquid spillage. Instead, dry it out and if it still doesn’t recover after the required number of days, take it to a technician.