Many people enjoy taking drinks and snacks as they work on their laptops. However, having a glass of water or any liquid right next to your laptop is a bad idea. You may accidentally spill water on your laptop, which may seep through the openings on the keyboard into the electronic circuit. This can cause short circuits and damage your device.
If you accidentally spill water on your laptop, don’t panic. Here are some steps you can take to minimize the damage and potentially save your device. If you act swiftly, you can save your laptop and avoid the cost of repair or replacement.
1. Turn off your laptop and unplug it from the power source
The first and most important thing to do when you spill water on your laptop is to turn it off immediately. Press and hold the power button to force it to shut down immediately—do not shut it down the usual way as it will delay the shut-down process. After shutting it down, unplug the power source from the laptop or switch off the power on the wall outlet. This is a crucial step to avoid a short circuit which might damage your device.
2. Remove the battery (if possible)
If your laptop has a removable battery, take it out immediately. Removing the battery will prevent the water from short-circuiting and damaging it. However, if your laptop has a built-in battery, then do not remove it on your own—seek professional help.
3. Remove any external components
The next action to take if you spill water on your laptop is to remove any external components that are attached to it, including the mouse, speakers, and USB drives. This will make it easier to assess the damage and allow the laptop to dry more quickly.
4. Turn it upside down and wipe off the excess water
When you spill water on your laptop, it will most probably land on the keyboard. To prevent water from spreading further into the internal components, turn your laptop upside down (with the keyboard facing down). While in that position, use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to wipe off any excess water from the surface.
5. Let it dry
Once you’ve wiped as much water as possible from the surface, it’s time to let your laptop dry. While still in the upside-down position, place it on a towel to allow excess water to drain out. Do not use a hairdryer or other heat sources to dry your device, as it can damage it further. You can use a fan to circulate air around your laptop to help dry it out faster.
6. Don’t turn it on too soon
One of the biggest mistakes you should avoid after spilling water on your laptop is turning it on too soon. Even if it looks like all the water has been removed, there may still be some moisture inside your device, enough to cause a short circuit. Judging by the amount of water spilled, wait for at least 24-48 hours before attempting to turn your laptop back on.
Conclusion
These are the basic steps to follow in case you accidentally spill water on your laptop. For better chances of saving your laptop, swing into action as soon as possible and take the necessary steps.
If you’re still experiencing issues after letting it dry, take it to a computer repair specialist. They will assess the damage and advice on the next appropriate steps to take.
