If you accidentally spill water on your MacBook, it can cause serious problems as the liquid can damage internal components. But not all is lost! If you take action quickly and correctly, you can save your MacBook and save your data.
First steps
- Turn off your MacBook. Unplug your MacBook immediately to avoid short circuits and component damage. Do not use it for several hours until you are sure that it is completely dry.
- Disable charging. If the charger was plugged in at the time of the incident, unplug it from your MacBook and the power outlet.
- Remove all external devices. If you have connected an external hard drive, flash drive, or other devices, disconnect them from your MacBook.
- Wrap your MacBook in a dry cloth. Gently wipe the outside of your MacBook with a dry cloth to remove excess liquid.
Check for damage
- Check your keyboard. If liquid gets on the keyboard, it may damage the keys. Check if each key works, and if there are any problems, contact the service center.
- Check the screen. If liquid gets on the screen, it may stop working. Check if the screen turns on, and if not, contact the service center.
- Check ports. Liquid can get into the ports on your MacBook and damage them. Check if the ports are working, and if not, contact the service center.
- Check the sound. Liquid can damage your MacBook speakers and microphone. Check if the sound works, and if not, contact the service center.
How to dry a MacBook
- Open MacBook. Open the lid of your MacBook and leave it open to speed up the drying process.
- Wipe off the liquid. Gently wipe any excess liquid inside your MacBook with a dry cloth.
- Use a fan. Lay your MacBook face down on the fabric and point the fan at it. This will help speed up the drying process. Do not use a hair dryer as this may damage the components.
- Use fig. Rice can help absorb any remaining moisture. Lay your MacBook on a kitchen towel, sprinkle rice around it, and let it sit for a few hours.
- Wait a few days. Leave your MacBook in a dry place for a few days to make sure it is completely dry. Do not turn on your MacBook until you are sure it is completely dry.
What to do if the MacBook is not working
- Contact the service center. If your MacBook is still not working, contact a service center. They can help repair damaged components.
- Save your data. If you can't turn on your MacBook but want to keep your data, contact a professional data recovery specialist. They can help extract data from a damaged MacBook.
Conclusions
If you spill water on your MacBook, it's a bad situation, but if you take action quickly and correctly, you can save your MacBook and save your data. Remember to check for damage after spills and use rice and a fan to speed up the drying process. If your MacBook still doesn't work, contact a service center or data recovery specialist.
F.A.Q.
No, a hair dryer can damage MacBook components.
In this case, you should contact the service center, as other liquids can damage the components of the MacBook.
Spilled water can damage MacBook components such as the keyboard, screen, ports, and speakers.
Recommended: How to clean PS5 and controller: step by step guide
