Water Damaged MacBook: How to Repair In 8 Steps

A water-damaged MacBook is a serious issue. Not only does the spilled liquid damage the outside of the computer, but it can also corrode sensitive electronic components. 

If you’re not careful, you may end up with a completely broken laptop, besides risking losing your data. 

Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to attempt to fix your water-damaged MacBook and save your files and photos.

Important: Keep in mind that these steps are only meant to mitigate water damage. 

If your MacBook has been exposed to water for an extended period, there is likely irreparable damage, and you should take it to a professional for repair. Get 24/7 assistance at +1 (800) 972-3282.

Step-by-step to fix a water-damaged MacBook

Step-by-step to repair a water-damaged MacBook

Step 1. Unplug the MacBook from its power source

It’s critical to unplug the laptop from any power source. The water can reach the power outlet and cause a short circuit. 

As an extra measure, find the circuit breaker and turn it off to avoid any fire risk.

Step 2. Turn off the laptop and remove the battery

Powering down your MacBook can prevent further damage to it. This is a rare moment you can’t safely power down your device without closing all apps before turning off the laptop. 

Immediately press and hold the power button until it completely turns off.

Source: Apple support

Then you should try to remove the MacBook battery to guarantee it won’t get completely wet.

Step 3. Remove the computer from the wet surface

As you have your device powered out and disconnected, you can safely take it and place it in a dry space. 

You can even put your water-damaged MacBook on a towel or any other absorbent material to eliminate as much water as you can right the way.

Step 4. Disconnect all devices

Once the computer is completely disconnected from power and securely placed on a dry surface, you must remove any external peripherals that are connected. 

This includes devices like USB devices, SD cards, and anything else that is plugged into the MacBook.

Step 5. Dry your MacBook as much as possible

Now it’s time for you to try to reduce the water damage to your MacBook. 

Remove as much water as you can with a clean microfiber towel. Make sure to wipe down the MacBook using, including, cotton swabs to absorb liquids from small and hard-to-reach areas of your laptop, such as ports. 

Important: Do not let the MacBook turn on. 

If you didn’t remove the battery, make sure you don’t power on the laptop while drying it.

Step 6. Let your MacBook in a dry and ventilated place

Take your MacBook to a dry and ventilated place and let it rest for at least 48 hours before attempting to turn it on.

You can put it open and upside down, such as placing the keyboard on the table and letting the screen hang out. Certify it is secured and that the MacBook won’t fall.

You can also turn a fan into the run to make it a more ventilated place.

DO NOT HEAT OR USE A HAIR DRYER ON YOUR WATER-DAMAGED MACBOOK. 

Instead of drying your device, the heat will further damage it.

Step 7. Check if the water-damaged MacBook is working

After patiently waiting for 48 hours, you can attempt to power on your water-damaged MacBook.

If it is still working, you can use your device. However, liquid spills can compromise the internal components of the MacBook, and it can still corrode and rust even after the laptop is completely dried out.

So, make a backup and schedule a Genius Bar appointment to make sure there’s no further damage to the MacBook.

Step 8. Contact a repair service

If your MacBook didn’t power up after 48 hours, you should contact an Apple-authorized repair service. 

This is also a good time to contact an Apple certified data recovery service to restore as much data as possible.

SalvageData is officially registered as an Apple Authorized Service Provider and Independent Repair Provider and can easily help you get your MacBook files back. Contact SalvageData recovery experts 24/7 for an emergency data recovery or a free in-lab evaluation. 

TL; DR: Although a very serious issue, a water-damaged MacBook can be saved. The Apple warranty does not cover liquid damage, but you still can look for their help or contact an authorized service provider. And you can always follow these steps to prevent further damage and data loss.

What NOT to do if you spill water on your MacBook

• Do not try to turn on the computer;
• Don’t shake your MacBook;
• Do not use a vacuum cleaner to remove water;
• Don’t put it on rice or any other type of grain to dry it out. This can lead to further damage;
• Do not use a heating pad or hair dryer in the highest setting. This can damage delicate internal components.

FAQ Water-Damaged MacBook

How to avoid data loss due to liquid damage

1. Keep your MacBook and water bottle/glass at different elevations. A good solution would be using a stand for your device.
2. Get insurance that covers broad types of damage. AppleCare+ for Mac covers quite a few types of damage and charges smaller fees.
3. Keep regular and automatic backups of your MacBook to avoid data loss in case of device damage.

What happens inside my MacBook when a liquid spill occurs?

When a liquid spills onto a MacBook, it can cause corrosion to the delicate electronic components inside. 

This is because water is an excellent conductor of electricity. If water comes into contact with any of the components inside your computer, it can cause a short circuit. In severe cases, this can lead to a fire.

Does the spilled liquid type matter when fixing the MacBook?

Yes, unfortunately, depending on the type of spilled liquid, it will cause more damage than the water. Some liquids will let the MacBook parts stick or will corrode them faster. 

The best solution here is to immediately call a specialist.