Justin Drake Carroll MAC

What Is Disk Space on Your Mac, and How to Clear It?

Few inventions throughout history rival the personal computer. Not only can you communicate with other people across the world, you can even run an entire business from a laptop.

Apple computers are some of the most popular, and this is especially true concerning their MacBook line.

Unfortunately, these devices aren’t immune to MacOS problems, and disk space issues can sometimes manifest. This is one of the most common reasons behind a slow MacBook.

So, what is disk space? Let’s explore the key information you should know when moving forward.

What Is Disk Space?

This term is also known as disk storage. It essentially refers to how much available space you have on your computer to store new information. For example, let’s assume you have a total of 100 GB of available disk space.

This means you could add 100 GB of pictures, videos, applications, etc. to your computer. It’s worth noting that having a small amount of available disk space can substantially impact your computer’s speed.

The closer you get to having no available space, the slower your computer will run. For this reason, it’s best to periodically clean up the files on your device.

Finding Macbook Storage Space

Open the finder application and locate the hard drive tab. This should be the first option under “Locations” on the left-hand side. Right-click this tab and choose “Get Info.”

This will open a menu that illuminates your total amount of available storage space. You can also click the Apple icon in the top left corner of the screen. You can then click “About This Mac.”

Depending on what operating system you have, a different menu will appear. Regardless of what you see on the screen, you can navigate to a tab or section called “Storage” to learn more about how much space you have.

Clearing Disk Space

To get the best results, there are certain strategies you’ll need to implement. This will help you quickly free up disk space and help your computer run faster. Listed below are some of the most notable.

Delete Unneeded Media Files

This is one of the easiest ways to clear up space on your computer. Many people tend to hold on to media files for years. They do so to preserve their memories.

The problem with this process is that it takes up an enormous amount of space. Even a short video could be over a gigabyte in size.

You don’t have to keep these files on your computer to ensure they stay safe. You can relocate them to an external hard drive or upload them to a cloud server.

If you don’t have space available on your iCloud account, consider purchasing additional storage. This is very affordable, and you can often get over 100 GB for a few extra bucks per month.

If this isn’t an option, consider moving the files to another device. This can be a separate hard drive or another computer. Regardless of where you relocate your media files, you can then remove them from your MacBook and create extra space.

Delete Unused Apps

You’d likely be surprised how much space used apps can take up on your computer. Take a quick look through your Applications and Downloads folder. You can click on the “Size” tab to sort files from largest to smallest.

There’s a good chance you’ll find large files that you haven’t used in months. You should also check other areas that might contain applications, such as your Desktop. With enough diligence, you’ll find the most troublesome apps and be able to quickly delete them.

Delete Old iPhone/iPad Backups

If you frequently back up your iPhone or iPad, you’re likely taking up a large amount of space on your MacBook. This is especially true if you have tons of information on these devices. More likely than not, you only need access to your most recent backups.

There’s often no point in storing backups from over a year ago. Feel free to delete these as long as you’re sure they don’t contain important information.

Empty the Trash

Emptying the Trash can go a long way toward creating extra space on your computer. This process is as easy as right-clicking on the Trash icon and choosing “Empty Trash.” In some cases, you could free up over 10 GB if you haven’t emptied the trash in a while.

Get in the habit of emptying it every time you erase large files. Just be sure you don’t need access to this information in the future. The last thing you want to do is delete something and then realize you shouldn’t have done so.

File Compression

File compression is a commonly overlooked technique. It allows you to drastically reduce the size of various files, although you won’t be able to use them without decompressing them. File compression works by replacing repetitive data with placeholders.

A great way to understand this process is by thinking of data like a book. Imagine the name “Bethany” appeared in a book hundreds of times. If you replaced this name with the number zero, you would significantly reduce the book’s total number of written characters.

This is essentially how computers handle file compression. Compressing files is great for applications you need to store but don’t need to use.

To take this further, you can relocate them to an external drive and then compress them. Chances are you’ll save dozens of extra gigabytes when working with a large number of files.

Take Action ASAP

If you notice an issue with your computer’s speed, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. This will help you make full use of the device and avoid further problems. Keep the answer to “What is disk space” in mind to make the best decision for your situation.

Fruit Fixed Aims to repair tablets, computers, and cell phones as soon as possible. We offer high-quality parts, fast turnaround times, and a lifetime warranty. You’ll learn more about how we can help when you get in touch with us today.

Justin Drake Carroll Gaming Systems

Tips to Achieve a Good Gaming Latency for Your PC

Gamers despise lag. For a smooth, responsive gaming experience, you need to ensure you’ve got minimal latency. Latency refers to the response time for data traveling between your computer and the game server. This process takes mere milliseconds.

However, if it takes longer, you’ll notice lag and unresponsiveness. Aim for 50 milliseconds or lower of latency between you and the gaming server. Nonetheless, under 100 milliseconds is passable.

Other sources of latency exist, such as your hardware setup. Although different from server latency, it can still cause a disconnect between your actions and in-game events. To enjoy games fully and excel in competitive multiplayer games, you’ll need good gaming latency.

What Is Gaming Latency?

Latency, in the realm of online gaming, can be a real game-changer. In action-packed games like Counter-Strike or Call of Duty, every millisecond matters. High latency means your on-screen actions reach the game server with considerable delay. So, you may think you’ve shot an enemy, but the server disagrees.

A poor gaming PC can worsen lag between your system and the game server. An outdated graphics card or improper configuration could also create latency at the hardware level. However, network-based latency is mainly influenced by your internet speed.

A slow internet connection will undoubtedly lead to significant gaming latency. Even with lightning-fast internet, the geographical distance between you and the server plays a crucial role. That’s why game servers are usually grouped into regions.

For example, if you’re in North America playing against Europeans, don’t expect to be able to play without lag. Even if everyone has a speedy internet connection, when the server is continents away, there’s no escaping substantial latency.

Optimize Your Internet Speed

Optimizing your internet connection is a surefire way to reduce gaming latency. If you’re using Wi-Fi, consider switching to an ethernet connection as Wi-Fi connections are prone to interference.

With a hardwired connection, if you still experience latency, consider upgrading your internet plan. Higher bandwidth and lower latency can significantly reduce gaming lag. However, ensure your internet plan is the culprit before making changes.

Lag issues may stem from your router. Commercial routers aren’t always optimized for gamers. Check your router settings for quality of service adjustments and prioritize gaming traffic. Also, Update the firmware if needed.

If your router isn’t powerful enough for low-latency gaming, consider investing in a new one. While “gaming routers” exist, any good quality router will work well for gaming, as there’s no exclusive routing technology for gaming PCs.

Hardware Level Latency

Most gaming latency stems from your connection to the server. However, hardware issues can also cause delays between input and in-game actions.

Setting in-game graphics quality too high may lead to a sluggish experience, and certain settings can introduce small latency. While not as significant as network latency, it’s still noticeable in fast-paced games like Counter-Strike 2.

Professional Counter-Strike players often use powerful gaming PCs with low graphical settings for good gaming latency. The mix of high processing power and low settings ensures they get the absolute minimum latency. This is crucial when a split second makes the difference between winning and losing.

Are you running other software while gaming? Check for a gaming mode. This feature stops background processes during gameplay.

Antivirus software is infamous for causing lag through background processes. Explore the settings to find a gaming mode that can reduce gaming lag by preventing your antivirus from slowing down your game.

Consider Drivers

Got a top-notch gaming PC and lightning-fast internet speed, but still facing gaming latency? It could be due to improperly configured hardware drivers. Often, unexplainable lag points to issues with graphics card drivers. Keeping them up-to-date can boost performance and reduce gaming lag.

Don’t forget to check your network adapter drivers, especially if you’ve switched from wireless to wired. Many gamers plug in an Ethernet cable and call it a day. While it may stabilize the connection, it’s not fully optimized for your motherboard’s networking hardware.

To achieve the best possible Ethernet connection, visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website for the latest network drivers. This will help ensure optimal network performance and good gaming latency.

There are also many other kinds of drivers that could potentially affect gaming latency, so if you’re having issues, it makes sense to check you have the latest upgrades for all your gaming hardware.

Choose the Right Server for Good Gaming Latency

Choosing the right server is a top way to reduce gaming latency. Pick one close to you, as a shorter distance means a faster internet connection and less lag. In MMORPGs, server selection is crucial, so research their locations before committing.

In fast-paced shooters, server choice is less significant. However, many games let you set network preferences to connect to nearby servers. Living close to a server can result in good gaming latency, with pings as low as four milliseconds.

Still, heavy loads can cause latency even if you’re next to the server. This issue is common in massively multiplayer games with varying player numbers. To minimize latency, opt for lower-population servers.

Some games offer tools to ping servers and check latency before joining. This feature helps identify any internet speed issues needing attention before playing.

Talk to the Gaming Community

When all else fails and good gaming latency eludes you, consult the game’s online community. Visit forums and subreddits for potential solutions to your predicament. Maybe the issue lies with the server, and you must patiently wait for the developers’ fix.

Hardware-specific issues may also cause lag. Share your gaming PC woes on forums to determine if your hardware configuration is at fault. Remember, in the quest to reduce gaming lag, a united front prevails.

Fix the Lag

Good gaming latency is a balancing act. You need to juggle internet connectivity, gaming PC hardware, and software settings to create a responsive gaming environment.

A correct configuration means you’ll minimize delays and that your actions will register swiftly in the game world.

So you feel like your gaming PC’s latency is the result of hardware or software issues that are beyond your technical capability to fix? Fruit Fixed is here to help! We aim to fix any of your devices within 30 minutes. Give us a call and let us diagnose the issue and get you back to gaming.

Justin Drake Carroll Repair

Your Samsung S23 Ultra Screen Replacement and Protection Guide

Everyone’s eyes are on the new Samsung S24 Ultra, but the S23 was still a massive success. It outsold its predecessor by 22%, in particular the Ultra.

The S23 Ultra continues to be an incredible phone in the current year with years of promised software updates. Swapping out things like the battery or the USB charger can extend its lifespan even more. But what about if you need a screen replacement for cracks or screen flickering?

A Samsung S23 Ultra screen replacement is something you can do at home-though we highly recommend going into a professional shop. We’ll walk you through the steps of swapping out the screen and adding screen protectors.

Samsung S23 Ultra Screen Replacement

Samsung screen replacement is one of the most involved, delicate repair processes. Samsung, like Apple and others, has been fighting against right-to-repair movements. Only recently has the tech giant made a self-repair program.

Even if experienced, you should exercise great caution during replacement. Screens are very delicate, just as they would be for an iPhone screen repair. Here are the tools you need:

  • Heating pad or hair blow drier
  • 1.5 mm Phillips screwdriver
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Plastic or metal pry tool

Make sure you have a clean, well-lit, non-static space to work on. Take your time and make sure not to lose anything. If you have any doubts, bring it to a professional.

It helps to place a clean piece of paper on the table where you are working. Divide the paper into sections and label them with specific parts, placing screws and components in these sections as needed. You’ll have to work backward at the end, so this will be immensely helpful.

Remove the Adhesive

Samsung, like other manufacturers, uses adhesive to put the components together to prevent water damage. First, remove that adhesive.

Put your phone on the heating pad and set the temperature to approximately 72 to 90°. Or, with a blow dryer, blow the phone’s sides on a high heat setting.

Use Isopropyl Alcohol

Squirt a tiny bit of isopropyl alcohol around the back edge of the phone. This will further loosen the glue.

Use that plastic pry tool and push it into the gap. Drag it around the edge to slowly and carefully cut through and detach the adhesive. The back panel should come right off so you can set it aside.

Remove Screws and Components

Next, you’re going to remove all of the visible Phillips screws. There should be 12 in total.

Use your pry tool to pop off the connector for the wireless pad and NFC connection. This will be just to the right of the phone’s middle cameras. Remove the entire NFC/wireless adapter assembly, including the speaker assembly attached to the bottom, and set it aside.

Disconnect the battery and the two long, squiggly main flex cables that run from the motherboard down to the speaker config and charging board. Before you proceed, make sure to remove the Phillips screws holding down the charging board.

Final Main Disassembly Steps

Pop out the SIM tray, remove the S-Pen, and finally remove the charging port. Remove the antenna connector at the top of the phone. Then disconnect the flex connector for the S-Pen, the LCD (a long, flat connector with Samsung on it), and the camera.

The mainboard should now lift right out. With extreme care, pry out the selfie camera-but make sure to disconnect the connector first! Use isopropyl alcohol and heat to remove the battery, being careful not to bend or puncture the cells.

Install the Screen

Get your new screen and remove it from the packaging. You may notice that there is no separation between the screen and the internal structure holding the main components. This is because, with Samsung, the screen is very heavily integrated into the overall system.

Now, you can reverse the process using the steps above from end to beginning. 

Installing a Screen Protector

Installing a screen protector is much, much easier. 

Clean the screen very well with a microfiber cloth and a sticker for removing particulate matter. Double and triple-check the screen to ensure it is clean. Any leftover pieces of dirt or lint will remain under the protector for good!

Apply the screen protector and squeeze out any bubbles, pushing them toward the outsides, rather than the middle. Make sure it lines up perfectly and then let it set. Voila, your screen protector is ready to go!

Self-Repair vs. Professional Repair

As you can see, the process is quite complex and you are effectively disassembling the entire phone just to replace the screen. Samsung, unlike other companies out there, has not made the process easy. So the question is this: should you bite the bullet and try to repair yourself, or take it into a shop?

Pros and Cons of Self-Repair

The benefit of doing it alone is the satisfaction of having fixed your phone with your own two hands. You can save a bit of money and learn some things in the process.

That said, it will take a lot of time, and there’s a high risk you could break something expensive even if you’re careful. Plus, you may do everything just right, only for the phone and Samsung Ultra screen not to turn on-and never figure out what went wrong.

Pros and Cons of Professional Repair

Sending it to a repair shop will cost a bit more, sure, but that’s the only disadvantage. You get a repair from a professional who has done hundreds of screen replacements.

You get peace of mind and a guarantee that if something goes wrong, you’re covered. And since it’s a professional, you know they won’t make any phone-ruining rookie mistakes. They can also leverage better tools designed specifically for dealing with smartphones, and acquire cheaper, legitimate parts.

Visit Fruit Fixed

A Samsung S23 Ultra screen replacement is difficult, but doable. You’ll need to carefully disassemble and reassemble the whole phone. It’s better for your peace of mind to send it to the repair shop.

At Fruit Fixed, we provide expert repair for a wide range of devices. We can replace the screen, battery, or anything else on your Samsung device. Choose the one you have here to see our pricing.

Justin Drake Carroll iPad

Can You Replace an iPad Screen at Home?

Did you (or someone else, like your child) drop your iPad? Or maybe you forgot it was in your bag, which you haphazardly threw on the floor. Either way, you heard a sickening crunch and, to your absolute horror, found yourself with a broken iPad screen.

That horrified reaction is understandable, considering the iPad product line’s premium pricing. If you replace your damaged iPad with one of the latest, lowest-cost models, you’d still pay an MSRP of $449.

At this point, you’re likely thinking of going the DIY way.

So, can you replace an iPad screen at home by yourself? Of course, you can, but that doesn’t always mean it’s a good idea.

We’ll tell you when it’s okay to perform DIY iPad screen repair or replacement vs. when to go to the pros for help, so read on. 

When Can You Replace an iPad Screen the DIY Way?

Ideally, you should only replace a cracked iPad screen if you have experience and knowledge of gadget repair. Because if you don’t, and you tinker around with it, you may cause more irreparable damage. 

Let’s say you’ve fixed electronic devices before and are confident in your DIY skills. The next question is, can you buy an iPad replacement screen?

You may have heard Apple launched its Self-Service Repair program in 2022. It gives anyone experienced in electronic device repairs access to genuine parts and repair tools. Unfortunately, iPad replacement screens aren’t available yet at this time.

You may be able to find replacement screens for your iPad model online. Some are stand-alone (screen-only), while others are in kits.

Replacement kits come with the screen and the tools you need to disassemble your device. These include opening tools and picks, suction devices, suction pads, tweezers, and precision bits. They also have how-to guides with instructions, usually in written and video formats.

Read and watch those guides to determine how complex the replacement process is. You can then gauge if you have the skills and know-how to perform it yourself. 

When and Why It’s Best to Go Pro Instead

If you don’t have any experience fixing electronic gadgets, it’s best to take your iPad to a professional tablet repair service.

This is the safest way to get your device repaired without the risk of doing more damage. It’s also faster and more convenient. And while it may cost you more upfront, it can be cheaper than a DIY job gone wrong. 

iPad Hardware Repairs Are Complex

With its many sensitive and soldered components, opening an iPad is complex and not for the faint of heart. A tiny mistake, such as tugging on the cracked screen too harshly, can knock loose or damage other parts.

When that happens, you’ll have more than a busted display to worry about.

For example, a damaged internal component may cause your iPad to stop charging. That can give you or worsen your nomophobia, the fear of having no mobile phone connectivity. 

Speed and Convenience

If you were to DIY an iPad replacement job, you must spend ample time studying its repair manual. You may also have to wait a few days for your replacement screen delivery.

So, give or take, it might take at least two to three days before you can start the replacement job. But if things go awry, expect it to take longer.

Conversely, experienced gadget repair technicians usually finish most jobs in under an hour. However, this still depends on which service provider you choose. 

The Apple Way

If you ship your device to Apple, it may take a couple of days or more for them to receive it. Then, they’d need a few more days to replace the screen and return your fixed device. 

If you bring your iPad to an Apple service center that doesn’t have your screen in stock, it’ll also take a few days. After all, they’d have to order and wait for the part. 

A Reputable Independent Service Provider

If you need a new screen now, your best bet is to partner with an independent repair service. The most reliable ones always have iPad replacement parts available. This lets them deliver quick services, usually finishing jobs in only 20 to 30 minutes.

Dependable gadget repair facilities also charge less than Apple and its service centers. You may even be able to snag a low-price replacement or repair guarantee! 

Discover (And Address) Other Issues in One Visit

Suppose that dropping your iPad cracked its screen and also damaged its battery.

Your device may be charging now but might die soon if you don’t fix the battery problem. This can leave you with a non-powering iPad. A damaged battery may also be a safety hazard, as it can overheat and cause injury.

Another example is if you dropped your iPad on a wet surface. In this case, water may have penetrated your device and may be wreaking havoc on its internal parts.

If not addressed ASAP, water damage can cause your device to corrode from within. This can result in your iPad performing erratically or no longer turning on. Returning power to water-damaged electronics can also lead to electrical fires and shocks.

The good news is that when you have a pro replace your screen, they can discover other issues with your device.

Reputable technicians won’t repair those without telling you first and getting your consent. Likewise, they won’t force you to agree to the additional repairs on the spot. However, consider doing so for your safety and your iPad’s longevity. 

Invest in Professional iPad Screen Replacement

DIY mishaps, long waiting times, and safety issues are all risks of DIY screen replacement.

So, while the answer to the question, “Can you replace an iPad screen at home?” is yes, you should think twice about doing so.

Let our experienced technicians at Fruit Fixed do all the hard work for you. We’ve been in business since 2011, serving over 100 customers in Virginia daily and helping them stay connected.

Start your service by heading to our iPad repair page. Then, call, email, or visit one of our seven stores!

Justin Drake Carroll MAC

Signs You Need to Replace Your Mac Charger Cable

Apple has a reputation for making luxurious, high-priced products. Still, people buy them en masse. Take for example how MacOS rose in just 10 years from an ownership of 12.86% to 31.34% in the US desktop market.

It’s hard not to love a Mac: it’s slim, has unparalleled battery life, and remains blazing fast for years. The cherry on top is that fancy snap-on charging cable. The problem is that Apple does not have a reputation for making good cables, and yours might not be looking so hot.

How do you tell when your Mac charger cable is in need of replacement? Let’s take a look at some signs that it’s time to buy a new one.

Signs Your Mac Charger Cable Is Broken

To be clear, we are talking about any issues with your Mac charger cable, Mac power adapter, and the charging port itself. It’s important to diagnose which of the three (or all three) the problem originates from. 

Your Mac Is Not Charging

The first and most obvious sign that there is an issue is that your Mac is not charging. Before further diagnosis, make sure to isolate the issue just in case it’s not the cable or a loose Mac charging port. 

Make sure the outlet you’re using has power and has not blown out or been tripped. Check another outlet, just in case. Make sure the prongs are intact, straight, and free of debris.

Next, make sure the charging adapter has all its pins and is not obstructed by dust or debris. Check the insert on your MacBook as well. If there’s any grime, use a dry cloth and/or isopropyl alcohol to clear it out.

Your Mac Dies When Plugged In

Perhaps your Mac shows that it is charging, but it still dies while plugged in. This could be a sign that some of the wires are frayed or loose, resulting in limited power draw. The power outlet should be able to power and charge your MacBook at the same time, so clearly the charger is at fault.

Check the integrity of the charger and cable. Take note of the plastic or woven sheath peeling away. Look for exposed wires, or cracks and breaks in the seams between the adapter and cable – we’ll discuss later why these things present an issue.

Your Cable Is in Bad Condition

Any longtime Apple owner knows that the factory cables that come with your devices are very low quality. Apple only includes a thin, cheap plastic sheath that does not allow for much bending, twisting, or pulling. It’s highly recommended that you purchase a higher-quality, thicker woven cable from a third party.

Even if your Mac is charging just fine, a cable in poor condition is a disaster waiting to happen. It could stop working at any time, especially if you are away from home and have no other device.  

Further, a frayed or exposed cable presents a risk to your safety and a fire hazard. You or someone you know could touch the cable and suffer an electric shock. Children who don’t know better may be at risk.

It’s better to bite the bullet now. Buy a new charging cable, pay to fix a loose charging port, or do whatever needs to be done. Otherwise, you’re just waiting for misfortune to befall you.

You Have Issues With the Plug Converter

Modern MacBook charging bricks are much smaller and more modular. If you have an M1-M3 then you probably have a palm-sized brick with a detachable USB-C charging cable. It may also include an extra charging port for another USB-C device.

Older MacBooks, particularly those before the M1 chips, featured a very different charging brick. The most noticeable distinction is that you can attach one of two plug adapters. One allows the brick to plug directly into the wall, while another adds an extra length of cable before the plug.

Issues may arise with this adapter, especially if you switch it out often. It may no longer sit flush, or may not click fully into place. You may also notice burn marks inside when popping off the adapter.

If there is an issue with the above – particularly on the brick side – it may be time for a replacement. If it’s just the attachment itself, then that’s a cheaper, easier replacement.

Your Folding Prongs Are Broken

M1-M3 Macs, as we mentioned, have a modern, smaller, modular adapter brick. It’s lighter, more durable, and less prone to breaking since there is no attaching plug adapter or plastic cable. However, it does have its own potential issues with the folding prongs.

The newer Macs’ folding prongs are nice since they allow you to stow the charger in a much smaller format. However, those prongs can bend or break. They’re less firm and durable when plugging into a wall compared to a grounded cable.

If you are having trouble plugging in or the prongs are loose, it may be time for a replacement. 

What If Your Mac Won’t Charge or Turn On?

Now, you’ve diagnosed all of the potential issues with your Mac charger cable and Mac charging port. Our comprehensive guide will cover the vast majority of situations, if not all of them. What do you do if your Mac still doesn’t charge, or doesn’t even turn on?

Unfortunately, at this point it’s time to take it into the shop. The issue could very well extend beyond the cable and have to do with internal motherboard components. Check out our other guides to do a self-diagnosis, or just bring it in so we can take a look.

Visit Fruit Fixed for Expert Repairs

The Mac charger cable (pre-M1 in particular) does not have a reputation for being very high-quality. Use this guide to determine if it’s time to replace your cable.

In some cases, you may wish to do so preemptively. For others, it may simply not work and require an immediate replacement.

At Fruit Fixed, we can handle it all. Our expert technicians know how to diagnose and solve issues with Apple, Android, and Windows-based products. Tell us which MacBook you have and drop by to get a professional to look under the hood.

Justin Drake Carroll Phone FAQs

How to Fix a Phone That Has Water Damage

Ah, the dreaded plunge. Your trusty phone, a lifeline to the world, takes a dive into the deep, watery abyss-a sink, a toilet, or even a rain puddle. It’s a common tragedy, striking phones everywhere, regardless of their make or model.

In that moment, you’re faced with the grim possibility of losing not just a device, but a part of your daily life. But here’s a glimmer of hope: not all water encounters spell doom for your digital companion. So, what do you do when your phone takes an unexpected swim?

This article dives into the rescue mission-how to fix a phone that has water damage. Whether it’s an iPhone that’s seen better days or a beloved Android gasping for air, we’ve got your back. Keep reading, as we guide you step-by-step through the process of bringing your water-damaged phone back to life.

Reviving Your Water-Damaged Phone

When your phone gets a surprise bath, every second counts. The key to how to fix a phone that has water damage lies in your immediate response. First and foremost, power off your phone. This simple act can be a lifesaver, preventing short circuits that could fry your device’s internals.

After switching it off, remove any protective case or cover. Disconnect any plugged-in accessories like headphones or charging cables. If your phone’s design permits, remove the battery, SIM card, and memory card. This step is crucial in preventing further damage to these vital components.

Avoid the common mistake of shaking your phone or using a hairdryer. These methods can push water deeper into the phone, worsening the situation. Instead, gently blot your phone with a soft, lint-free cloth to absorb excess moisture. The goal here is to remove water without applying too much force.

Assessing the Damage

After the initial rescue efforts, it’s time to assess the damage. Water damage isn’t always immediately obvious, but certain signs can help you gauge the extent of the problem. A common red flag is screen malfunctioning-flickering, black spots, or a complete lack of response. This can indicate that water has seeped into your screen or other critical components.

Another crucial aspect to check is the phone motherboard. This is the nerve center of your phone, and water contact here can be catastrophic. Look for any visible signs of moisture or corrosion. Many phones have water damage indicators-small stickers that change color when wet.

These can usually be found in or near the battery compartment. Their color change is a tell-tale sign that water has invaded the interior of your phone, possibly reaching the motherboard.

Remember, even if your phone seems to be working fine, water damage can be insidious, leading to long-term issues if not addressed.

The iPhone Dilemma

Dealing with an iPhone damaged by water presents its own set of challenges. Unlike many Android phones, iPhones generally don’t have removable batteries or back covers. This design quirk means that water trapped inside has fewer escape routes, potentially increasing the risk of damage to internal components.

For iPhones, the immediate step after water exposure-turning it off and drying the exterior-remains the same. However, since you can’t remove the battery, there’s an increased urgency to keep the phone powered off and get it to a professional for a thorough checkup as soon as possible. The compact and intricate design of iPhones makes DIY repairs riskier and more complex compared to other smartphones.

Apple’s water damage indicators, located inside the SIM card slot, can quickly show if moisture has made its way inside. If these indicators have changed color, it’s a clear sign that the phone needs professional attention.

Removing Components

In the aftermath of a water mishap, removing the SIM card and other detachable parts from your phone is a crucial step. If your phone design allows it, swiftly take out the SIM card, memory card, and battery. This action is more than just a precaution; it’s a critical move in your damage control strategy.

Removing these components serves two key purposes. Firstly, it reduces the risk of your valuable data, like contacts and photos, being lost if the phone succumbs to water damage. Secondly, and more importantly, it aids in airing out the device.

By opening up these compartments, you’re allowing air to circulate more freely inside the phone, which helps in drying out any moisture trapped in hard-to-reach places.

This procedure is especially significant for phones with removable batteries. By taking out the battery, you’re cutting off any power that might cause a short circuit, thereby reducing the risk of irreparable damage to the phone’s motherboard and other critical components.

Drying and Cleaning Techniques

Once you’ve removed all removable parts, it’s time to dry out your water-damaged phone. The most effective method is to place your phone in a dry, well-ventilated area. A common myth is to use rice; however, this is not recommended as rice grains can get into small openings and cause more harm. Instead, consider using silica gel packets, if available, as they are more effective in absorbing moisture.

Another safe technique is to leave your phone upright in a room with a gentle airflow. You can also use a fan to circulate air around the phone, but avoid using hot air dryers as the heat can damage the phone’s components. While drying, rotate the phone every few hours to ensure moisture escapes from all openings.

Patience is key here. It’s recommended to leave your phone to dry for at least 24 to 48 hours before attempting to turn it on again. Remember, rushing this process can lead to permanent damage.

Now You Know How To Fix a Phone That Has Water Damage

Dealing with a water-damaged phone? At Fruit Fixed, we specialize in resolving such crises. Our approach to how to fix a phone that has water damage is both efficient and reliable.

Backed by our Low Price Guarantee, we ensure you get the best service at the most competitive price. If your phone has taken an unintended dive, don’t let despair set in. Reach out to us at Fruit Fixed. Our skilled technicians are ready to provide expert repair, restoring your phone to its optimal state.

Start the process today and experience the peace of mind that comes with professional, cost-effective repair solutions.