Why does water destroy electronic devices?
Water can destroy electronic devices primarily because it conducts electricity and causes short circuits. Here's a breakdown of why that happens:
1. Conductivity of Water (Especially Tap or Salt Water)
Pure water (distilled) is a poor conductor of electricity, but most water we encounter (like tap water, rainwater, or saltwater) contains dissolved ions and minerals, which make it conductive.
When this conductive water bridges contacts on a circuit board, it creates unintended pathways for electricity to flow.
2. Short Circuits
A short circuit occurs when electricity takes an unintended path, often bypassing essential components. This can:
3. Corrosion
Even if a device isn’t powered on, water (especially salty or humid water) can cause oxidation and corrosion over time.
4. Capacitive/Resistive Interference
Water can temporarily change the way the device interprets signals, especially in touchscreens or sensors, which are sensitive to changes in capacitance or resistance.
5. Damage When Power Is Applied
If a device is wet and turned on (or left on when it gets wet), the combination of electricity + water + sensitive circuits is especially dangerous—leading to immediate failure.
What to Do If a Device Gets Wet:
Turn it off immediately
Disconnect the battery or power source
Dry it thoroughly (e.g., using silica gel, not rice—it’s a myth)
Do not turn it on until it’s 100% dry and inspected
Let me know if you want a visual diagram or tips for rescuing wet electronics!