Overview
If your iPhone has been water damaged and won't turn on, time is critical. Do not attempt to charge the device — applying power to a wet logic board accelerates corrosion and can cause irreparable shorts. Remove the case, shake out visible water, and bring the device to a professional repair shop as soon as possible. The sooner corrosion treatment begins, the higher the chance of recovery.
Common Causes
- Immersion in water deeper or longer than the IP68 rating allows, compromising the seal
- Exposure to chlorinated pool water, salt water, or soapy water which bypasses IP68 protection faster
- Impact damage to the seal gasket before water exposure, allowing ingress at any depth
- Corrosion on the logic board after water drying out, creating shorts that prevent boot
- Charging the device while wet, causing electrolytic damage to logic board traces
Signs & Symptoms
- Device shows no response — no display, no vibration, no charging indicator
- Device powers on briefly then shuts off, or shows distorted graphics before dying
- Liquid contact indicator inside the SIM tray slot has turned red
- Charging port shows corrosion deposits or the cable does not seat properly
Should You Try DIY?
Do not place the iPhone in rice. Rice does not absorb moisture from inside sealed electronics and wastes critical repair time. Do not use a hairdryer — high heat can damage internal components. Bring the device to a professional immediately.
Professional Solution
iTech Repairs performs ultrasonic cleaning of the iPhone logic board using specialist solutions designed to remove corrosion without damaging components. After cleaning and drying, we identify and repair damaged components using micro-soldering. Data recovery from the NAND chip is available where the device cannot be restored to working order.
How Much Does It Cost?
Water damage repair starts with a free inspection at iTech Repairs. Repair cost varies based on the extent of corrosion found. Walk in to Braybrook or Spotswood — the earlier, the better.
Repair vs Replace
Water damage repair success rates are much higher when the device is brought in quickly. Even if the phone cannot be fully restored, data recovery may save your photos and contacts. Professional assessment is always worthwhile.
Why Choose iTech Repairs?
iTech Repairs uses ultrasonic cleaning and micro-soldering for water damage recovery at our Braybrook and Spotswood stores. Data recovery services also available. Walk-in, no appointment needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- My iPhone fell in water and won't turn on — what should I do?
- Do not try to charge or power on the device. Dry the exterior, remove any case, and bring it to iTech Repairs as soon as possible for a professional internal inspection.
- Does iPhone IP68 water resistance guarantee it will survive being dropped in water?
- IP68 offers protection against immersion up to 6 metres for 30 minutes under lab conditions. Chlorinated, salt, or soapy water, and greater depths or durations, can bypass this protection.
- Can water damaged iPhone data be recovered?
- In many cases, yes. Even if the device cannot be powered on, data recovery from the NAND chip is often possible. Bring the device to iTech Repairs as soon as possible.
- How much does iPhone water damage repair cost in Melbourne?
- Water damage repair cost depends on the extent of corrosion. Walk into iTech Repairs in Braybrook or Spotswood for a free inspection — the sooner the better.