When an Apple Watch fails to power up after exposure to water, it creates major frustration for users whose devices should be capable of handling brief underwater submersion. The water resistance of these products does not provide complete waterproof capability because occasional unexpected problems may occur. The good news? Several steps exist to resolve the problem.
This guide offers comprehensive coverage of Apple Watch water damage protocols by providing step-by-step instructions for instant solutions, in addition to expert professional services for repair solutions and whether Apple provides coverage. People who understand the proper repair procedures will be better able to recover from minor to severe water damage cases.
Understanding Water Damage on Apple Watch
The water-resistance feature in Apple Watch devices starting with Series 2 provides protection up to 50 meters of water depth according to ISO standard 22810:2010. This means they provide water resistance for swimming and casual water encounters, however, Apple Watch resistance should not be mistaken for full waterproof functionality.
Over time, there is a reduction in the effectiveness of waterproof seals in the watch which leads to dangerous situations when high-pressure water enters the device.
If you detect water damage signs on your Apple Watch promptly, that can save a lot of trouble. Screen fogginess together with streaks suggests that moisture has penetrated through the device and has affected display functionality. Water infiltration causes a malfunction in the internal sensors, thus buttons and the touchscreen may respond abnormally.
The watch failing to turn on or an unexplained battery drain could indicate that a short circuit has taken place inside the device. The presence of trapped water inside can be confirmed by listening for muffled or distorted sounds from the speaker unit. Can Apple Watch get wet? Yes, but knowing its limits and taking precautions can help prevent water damage from cutting its lifespan short.
Immediate Steps to Take After Water Exposure
Dropped an Apple Watch in water? No need to panic—quick action can make all the difference.
1. Power Down Immediately
Press and hold the side button, then slide to turn it off.
Keeping it on can cause internal damage, so shutting it down right away is crucial. If it’s connected to a charger, unplug it immediately to prevent short circuits.
2. Dry It Off the Right Way
Take off the band and gently shake the watch to clear out excess water. A soft, dry cloth works best for wiping it down. Heat sources like hairdryers might seem like a good idea, but they can do more harm than good by damaging internal components.
3. Use the Apple Watch Water Lock Feature
If the watch is still on, swipe up on the screen and tap the water droplet icon to activate the Apple Watch Water Lock feature.
This prevents accidental taps while wet. After that, rotate the Digital Crown to trigger the Apple Watch water eject function, which plays a sound to push water out of the speaker.
4. Absorb Any Hidden Moisture
Even if it looks dry on the outside, moisture could still be inside. Placing the watch in a sealed bag with uncooked rice or silica gel packets for 24 to 48 hours can help pull out any lingering water.
Fixing an Apple Watch That Won’t Turn On After Water Exposure
1. Performing a Hard Reset
Sometimes, all it takes is an Apple Watch hard reset to get things working again. Press and hold both the side button and Digital Crown for about 10 seconds. If the Apple logo appears, that’s a good sign—it means the watch is rebooting. If nothing happens, don’t worry. There’s still another way to fix Apple Watch issues caused by water exposure.
2. Charging the Watch
If the screen stays black, placing the watch on its official Apple magnetic charger might help. Water exposure combined with a low battery could make it seem completely dead. Let it charge for at least two hours before pressing any buttons. A little patience here can make all the difference.
3. Checking for Internal Corrosion
If the watch remains unresponsive, internal water damage could be the issue. As tempting as it might be, opening the watch isn’t a good idea—it could void any warranty and make things worse. Instead, taking it to an Apple Store or an authorized repair center is the best option.
Repairing Water Damage on Apple Watch
Dealing with a water-damaged Apple Watch can be stressful, especially when looking for repair options. The standard Apple Watch warranty doesn’t cover water damage, which can come as an unpleasant surprise. However, AppleCare+ does offer accidental damage coverage, including water-related issues, for a service fee.
For most Apple Watch models, this fee is $69, while repairs for the Apple Watch Ultra and Hermès editions cost $79. This can be a relief compared to paying out-of-warranty repair costs, which can range from $200 to $400.
When it comes to getting the watch serviced, booking an appointment at an Apple Store or visiting an authorized service provider is the best option. There’s also the option to mail the watch directly to Apple for repair, which can be more convenient.
While third-party repair shops might offer cheaper alternatives, this often voids any remaining AppleCare+ coverage or Apple Watch warranty. Weighing the risks before choosing a repair route can help avoid unexpected issues down the line.
Preventing Future Water Damage
Keeping an Apple Watch safe from water damage is easier with a few simple habits. Avoid high-pressure water exposure, like in hot showers or while water skiing, since forceful water can weaken the seals.
For those who spend a lot of time near water, an Apple Watch waterproof case can be a game-changer—brands like Catalyst and Spigen offer solid options. A quick routine check goes a long way, so it’s worth inspecting the screen, buttons, and speaker for any moisture buildup.
When heading into water, Apple Watch water lock mode should always be activated to keep the screen from reacting to accidental touches and to help push out trapped water afterward.
Conclusion
Water getting into an Apple Watch can be stressful, but acting fast makes all the difference. Using the water lock feature right away helps push out trapped moisture from the speaker. If the watch isn’t working as expected, checking Apple Watch repair options through Apple Support or an authorized service provider can help avoid further damage.
The best way to steer clear of these issues is through Apple Watch water damage prevention—keeping it away from high-pressure water, using water lock during swims, and being mindful of its water resistance limits. A little care goes a long way in keeping the watch running smoothly and avoiding expensive fixes.
