If you've spilled water on your laptop, what should you do? | Hayloaded

It's a nightmare scenario: You're typing on your laptop when you reach for a glass of water or your morning cup of coffee and—gasp—it tips over, soaking your screen and keyboard. Don't worry, if liquid spills on your laptop you can still save your device—but only if you act fast. We'll walk you through what to do to prevent a small spill from turning into a big problem.

Power Off Immediately

Shut down your laptop immediately to prevent electrical damage. Disconnect the power adapter and remove the battery if it's removable. Do not attempt to power on the laptop until you're certain it's completely dry.

Remove External Devices

Disconnect all external devices, such as USB drives, mice, and peripherals, from your laptop. This will prevent any potential short circuits or damage to these devices.

Dry the Laptop

Gently tilt and shake your laptop to drain any excess water. Use a soft, absorbent cloth or towel to carefully wipe the exterior of the laptop, including the keyboard, ports, and vents. Avoid applying excessive pressure, as this may push water further into the device.

Open the Laptop (If Possible)

If you're comfortable with electronics and your laptop allows for easy access, consider opening it to assess the extent of the water damage. Remove the bottom panel or keyboard to allow better airflow and access to internal components.

Air Dry

Place your laptop in a well-ventilated area with good airflow, preferably in a room with low humidity. Do not use a hairdryer or compressed air, as these can force moisture deeper into the laptop or cause static buildup.

Use Desiccants

To help absorb moisture, you can place packets of desiccants, such as silica gel or rice, near the laptop. These materials can aid in drying out the internal components. However, avoid placing them directly on the laptop or in contact with sensitive parts.

Wait at Least 48 Hours

Allow your laptop to dry completely for at least 48 hours before attempting to power it on again. Rushing the process can increase the risk of further damage and electrical shorts.

Test the Laptop

After the drying period, carefully reassemble your laptop and test it to see if it powers on and functions properly. Pay close attention to the keyboard, touchpad, and other input devices to ensure they're working correctly.

Seek Professional Help (If Necessary)

If your laptop doesn't power on or exhibits unusual behavior after drying, it's best to seek professional assistance from a qualified technician or the manufacturer's support service. They can assess the extent of the damage and perform any necessary repairs.

Remember that water damage can be unpredictable, and even if your laptop appears to be working fine initially, problems may arise later. It's essential to take precautions and follow these steps carefully to mitigate the risk of long-term damage to your device. Additionally, consider backing up important data regularly to avoid potential data loss in case of hardware failure.