We’ve all been there. You’re comfortably nestled on your couch, engrossed in your favorite show, when your TV remote slips from your grasp and lands in your drink. In an instant, your peaceful evening is disrupted. But why does water have such a catastrophic effect on your TV remote?
Quick Steps to Take When Your TV Remote Gets Wet
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Water or other liquid spillage on your TV remote can cause immediate damage, affecting its operational efficacy. Hence, it is essential to follow these quick steps to mitigate the damage.
- Power off and Remove Batteries: Turn off your TV and immediately remove the batteries from the remote. Keeping the batteries connected may cause shorts that can lead to irreparable damage.
- Drain the Water: Hold the remote with the buttons facing downwards and gently shake it to allow any excess water to drain out.
- Dry the Surface: Wipe the remote with a dry, lint-free cloth or towel. Avoid using a hairdryer or heater as these could melt the plastic components.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Drying a Wet TV Remote
It’s not enough just to remove the excess water from your remote. Thorough drying is a crucial step in this recovery process.
Do’s:
- Air Dry: Leave the remote in a well-ventilated place to air dry. Depending on how wet it got, this could take a few hours to a few days.
- Use Desiccants: Place the remote in a bag of uncooked rice or silica gel packets to draw out moisture.
Don’ts:
- Avoid Excessive Heat: Don’t use a hairdryer, oven, or microwave to dry the remote. These devices generate excessive heat that can warp or melt the plastic.
- Don’t Rush the Process: Resist the temptation to replace the batteries and use the remote before it is completely dry.
How to Safely Disassemble and Clean a Wet TV Remote
If your remote was heavily soaked or the spill involved sugary or sticky liquids, you may need to disassemble and clean it.
- Gather Necessary Tools: You will need a small Phillips screwdriver, a soft cloth, and isopropyl alcohol (at least 90% concentration).
- Remove Screws: Locate and remove the screws on the back of the remote. Be careful not to lose them.
- Separate the Components: Gently pull apart the remote, separating the front cover, back cover, and circuit board.
- Clean with Isopropyl Alcohol: Using a cloth or cotton swab lightly soaked in isopropyl alcohol, clean the plastic components and gently wipe the circuit board. Isopropyl alcohol evaporates quickly and leaves no residue, making it safe for electronics.
- Reassemble the Remote: After the parts have fully dried, reassemble the remote, ensuring everything snaps back into place correctly.
Best Practices for Preventing Water Damage to Your TV Remote
Prevention, as they say, is better than cure. Here are some best practices to avoid water damage to your TV remote:
- Avoid Eating or Drinking Near Your Remote: Keep beverages and food away from the remote to avoid spills.
- Use a Protective Cover: Consider purchasing a waterproof cover for your remote. These covers are affordable and offer excellent protection against spills and even drops.
- Store Safely: Avoid leaving your remote on the edge of tables or anywhere it might easily fall or be exposed to spills. A dedicated drawer or shelf is ideal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a wet TV remote be fixed?
Yes, it’s possible to fix a wet TV remote, but it depends on the extent of the damage. Removing the batteries immediately and drying the remote thoroughly can often restore its functionality.
What should I avoid doing when my TV remote gets wet?
Avoid pressing any buttons as this can push water further into the remote. Also, avoid exposing the remote to heat in an attempt to dry it.
Can professional services always fix a water-damaged TV remote?
While professional services have a high success rate, they may not always be able to fix a water-damaged remote. Sometimes, the damage is too extensive and it’s more cost-effective to replace the remote.
Conclusion
Water and electronics don’t mix, and your TV remote is no exception. By understanding the impact of water on your remote and taking the right steps when it gets wet, you can increase the chances of saving your remote and prolong its lifespan.
Timothy is a tech enthusiast and has been working in the industry for the past 10 years. He has a vast knowledge when comes to technology and likes to help people with this knowledge.