• Question: Thanks for the advice on my electronics situation. About to try the hairdryer. What electronic devices have you ever had to attempt to resurrect? ;P - joan9
  • Answer:

    When I was a kid, there was a period there where if I got a watch, the only possible end for it was waterlogged and non-functional. It didn’t matter if it was waterproof, water-resistant, water-repellant. I was going to immerse it in water and it would give up the ghost. Once, after this happened to a watch I had a particular fondness for, I tried sucking out the excess water. And it worked! Temporarily.

    Since I’ve become an adult, I’ve managed to keep from soaking anything more than a pair of earbuds left in a shirt pocket during laundry. Usually those come through just fine, too. But I’ve helped others resurrect iPods, cellphones, and even laptops with quick, decisive action.

    Generally, if it’s a large spill, you want to flush with distilled water first, especially if it’s something sugary or sticky. A lot of times I’ll use isopropyl alcohol as well if it’s started to dry. Hairdryer after that, until there’s no more visible liquid. Then you stick in a container with rice for a day or three. If you have any of those silica bags that come with new products, those help too. After that, all you can do is hope. I’ve had a pretty good success rate, but not perfect.

    How did your situation turn out?