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Published on: 16.02.2024 | updated on: 02.04.2024
Water damage and electrical devices is a century-old fairytale, one that, fortunately, we all know and understand but unfortunately still forget and end up frying our laptops. But don’t worry, you are not alone. Millions of users have at least once spilled liquid on their devices, and many of them have gotten away without any permanent damage.
However, not everyone is so lucky, and some users end up damaging their laptops due to water exposure. In this blog, we will discuss ASUS water damage, what to do, and how to fix it.
When an ASUS laptop, like any other laptop, comes into contact with water or any liquid, it can lead to various issues, from short circuits and corrosion of internal components to complete device failure. But the good thing is water damage is fixable. The severity of water damage depends on the amount of water your laptop was exposed to, how long the exposure was, and what measures you took to fix it.
Here are some obvious signs that your ASUS laptop is malfunctioning due to water damage;
One of the earliest signs of water damage in an Asus laptop is a malfunctioning keyboard. Keys may become unresponsive or erratically, indicating moisture has compromised the keyboard's electrical components.
A clear indicator of water damage is when water is observed dripping from the laptop.
The touchpad may not function correctly or stop working altogether. This failure can occur if water has seeped into the touchpad area, affecting its sensitivity and functionality.
Water damage can affect the laptop's speakers, leading to distorted audio or muffled sound.
Water damage can cause the laptop to shut down unexpectedly or restart without warning.
The laptop screen may show signs of malfunction, such as flickering, glitching, or displaying incorrect colors.
A severe water damage indicator is when the laptop fails to turn on, even when connected to a charger.
Depending upon the extent of exposure to the liquid, your ASUS laptop may or may not survive the spill. Here is what you can do about it;
Turn off your device immediately. Powering off your laptop immediately prevents electrical shorts and further damage to the internal components.
Remove the battery to avoid electrical damage since it stops the flow of electricity through the device.
Remove all external devices such as USB, external drives, and the power cord to prevent damage to the ports and connected devices.
Gently dry the exterior of your laptop with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers, as they can cause additional damage.
If you're comfortable and knowledgeable about electronics repair, carefully disassemble your laptop to dry each component. If not, having a professional technician handle the disassembly and drying process is safer to ensure no further damage occurs.
As liquid enters your Asus laptop, it becomes imperative to dry the device as soon as possible. Otherwise, with each passing minute, there is an increased risk of permanent water damage.
Here are some drying methods you can use to dry your ASUS laptop;
Allow the laptop to dry out well at room temperature in a well-ventilated area for at least 24-48 hours. Position the device upside down at an angle to allow moisture to evaporate quickly rather than pool. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or heat sources.
Submerging your laptop in a large container of uncooked rice can help absorb moisture. Ensure the laptop is completely covered and leave it buried for at least 48 hours. Rice acts as a natural desiccant, pulling moisture away from the laptop.
Silica Gel Packets are most commonly used in packaging. These packets work similarly to rice and can be switched in and out of a bag with the laptop. The little beads inside the packets change color as they soak water, letting you know it's time to replace the wet ones with dry ones.
By carefully following these steps, you can effectively dry your Asus laptop after water damage, potentially saving it from permanent damage. Timing is crucial; remember to act quickly and avoid exposing the laptop to further risks while it is drying.
The longer, the better. If you can do without the computer for a few days, it is ideal to let it dry out over 72 hours, but if you need it before that, then try to let it dry overnight. It will depend on how much water damage the device has suffered and how much the components inside have been wet.
Suppose your ASUS laptop gets exposed to liquid or moisture. In that case, one of the first steps you should take is to remove external components that could become damaged during the drying process or pose an additional electric risk while wet.
Listed below are the three most significant external components you should remove immediately;
Carefully eject and remove any removable batteries from ASUS laptops first. Batteries can short circuit if left wet and may continue slowly discharging residual electricity during drying. Unplug the AC adapter as well.
Detach any connected USB devices, external hard drives, printers, or peripherals from your ASUS laptop to protect them from moisture migrating through cables or ports. This also reduces potential electrical currents passing through wet components.
An often overlooked step, disconnecting all plugged-in cables and adapters eliminates additional moisture contact points and is vital to reducing sources of electricity. Carefully disconnect cables from potentially damaged ports contaminated by a spill as well.
Once you have safely removed all external components from your ASUS laptop, you can place the laptop unit in a position to dry without worrying about further damaging or electrically charging connected accessories. Removing external components reduces overall drying time and allows you to thoroughly dry the ASUS device itself before attempting to use it again. Proceed cautiously, even after drying, before reconnecting anything.
It will depend on what type of water damage the computer has suffered. If a drink was tipped over the computer, then most likely it can be fixed, but if the computer was dropped into a pool most likely it won’t be repairable. It will also depend on what you do after water exposure. Standing the laptop up to drain water, removing all USBs etc, turning the computer off right away, and putting it in a well-ventilated area can all help the outcome of the computer being able to function normally. If the computer is important or you have data you need to recover then head to a repair store right away as they may be able to save the computer or most of your data.
Severe or water exposure for longer periods can damage the internal components, such as the motherboard.
The motherboard is a complex component that needs to be repaired by a professional. But before visiting a repair store, turn off the laptop and clean the water from it, but don’t put pressure on it and let it dry out.
If your screen looks abnormal and it has been wet your device has suffered water damage. Water can cause so many problems with the internals including those connected to the screen.
To fix a screen that looks abnormal from water damage there may be traces of water behind the screen. If you know what you are doing, you can open it up and try to dry it out. If not seek advice from a professional who can open up the computer, letting in air to dry the screen out. If there is permanent damage, you may need a screen replacement.
If the keyboard is not working after being exposed to water, there may still be traces of water in the keyboard, or the water has dried but has now caused damage.
To fix the keyboard problem you need to ensure all the keys are dry. After that, turn the computer on and test the keys. If they still don't work, you may need a replacement due to water damage.
If the computer is still working fine but not charging, it is most likely not wet enough to cause permanent damage. If the device will not charge after plugging it in, your charger port may have water in it.
Most devices will not charge if the charger port contains water.
To fix the problem of a computer that turns on but won’t charge try turning the computer off and inserting a Q-tip can help soak up moisture sitting in the port. Allow to dry out for 24 hours before trying the charger again.
The cost to repair an Asus that has water damage will vary depending on the extent of the damage and the model of computer that you have. Older model parts will not cost as much as the newer models. For batteries that have suffered water damage, you will need to buy the part, which can set you back about $84.99 for a Zenbook battery. You cannot use everyday tools. You must purchase specific tools for the model of your laptop. The costs can also be high if you make a mistake and cause further damage to the computer, which will require a repair specialist to fix the damage.
After drying the laptop for at least 48 hours, try turning it on. If it doesn’t, that can indicate serious damage, which needs to be addressed by a repair professional immediately.
Typically, you have two repair options to fix water damage on the Asus laptop. The official manufacturer’s repair services and a local repair service such as Simply Fixable. You can find hundreds of reliable and carefully chosen repair shops around the United States on Simply Fixable’s platform. Often when you repair through the manufacturer the price is expensive due to the use of genuine parts. Third-party stores use high-quality parts but without the high price tag.
The cost to repair an Asus laptop that is damaged due to water exposure depends on the severity of the damage and which parts have been affected. If the damage is minor, you can even DIY and fix the issue yourself at an affordable price. On average, for minor water damage, such as a keyboard, the price of a new component may start from $30. However, for severe damage such as motherboard failure, it’s recommended to take your laptop to a professional for proper diagnosis and repair.
Asus standard warranty doesn’t cover accidental damages. However, Asus has a program called Accidental Damage Protection (ADP). This program covers accidents, including water spills, for one year at no extra cost.
Asus Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) is an add-on service offered by Asus that covers accidental damage to Asus products, including its laptops. This program is designed to protect Asus laptops and other devices from accidents that are not covered under the standard warranty, such as liquid spills, impact or drops, and electrical spikes.
When an older model Asus is impacted by water, the extent of the damage can be quite severe. If more than one part has been affected, it may not be worth repairing the device. Water damage is the most expensive form of damage to repair and can be difficult to fix. The reason for this is that water can spread quickly throughout the device. Water damage can sometimes be difficult to detect, which makes it hard to assess the full extent of the damage. Even if the device appears to be functioning, water damage can cause long-term problems that may not become apparent until later. Therefore, it is important to act quickly if your laptop has been impacted by water to reduce the extent of the damage and to avoid costly repairs.
Is a water-damaged computer worth repairing? If you have accidentally spilled water on your laptop, it depends on several factors, including the age of your iPad and the extent of water damage it has sustained.
If your Asus is a newer model and has only minor water damage, then it may be worthwhile to repair the device. Minor water damage can typically be fixed by cleaning and drying the internal components of the device. However, if your computer has severe water damage, it may have been submerged underwater for a long period of time. In such cases, the cost of repairing the damage may exceed that of replacing the device, especially if you have an older model.
When considering whether to repair or replace your Asus, there are a few factors to consider. Let's take a closer look:
Cons:
Pros:
Cons:
Suppose your laptop was fully operational and in good condition before it came into contact with water, and it is a newer model. In that case, the device should continue to function appropriately for the remaining duration of its lifespan. However, the severity of the water damage will determine whether or not the full function of the laptop can be returned. In cases of severe water damage, the device may end up with irreparable harm, leading to a loss of normal function.
If your laptop gets wet, turn it off right away. Running it generates heat, which can worsen the damage. Switching it off will prevent further harm and lower the pressure of trying to function with water damage.
If your laptop gets wet, act quickly to prevent further damage to its internal parts. Stand the laptop up with the charger end facing down, allowing water to exit the device. Be careful not to shake or tilt the laptop too much, and turn it off and unplug it to avoid short-circuiting.
You want to avoid using a hairdryer as it can add moisture and cause overheating of the battery, which can be another costly repair.
Liquid spills and water damage are an instant death for laptops. For ASUS, the rules are the same. Water damage severely threatens ASUS laptops and can quickly lead to permanent damage. Unlike smartphones with water seals able to withstand exposure to liquids up to a certain pressure, even small amounts of water or moisture entering a laptop can short-circuit internal components and cause irreversible damage.
Some of the most vulnerable parts of ASUS laptops prone to water damage include the motherboard, keyboard, trackpad, ports, and vents. Moreover, sometimes, the extent of the water damage is not immediately noticeable. Splashes or frequent exposure to water can ultimately start causing problems like random shutting down / restarting, component failure, or screen glitches gradually.
If your laptop has been exposed to liquid, one of your biggest concerns besides the device's functionality would be data recovery. It could be important personal and work files, financial information, photos, and other digital content that would now be most likely lost.
The process of recovering data from water-damaged devices is not easy, and to increase the likelihood of restoring data, the first step is to avoid powering on the device after it has been exposed to water, as it can cause further damage and lead to permanent data loss. Instead, be patient and consider professional data recovery services specializing in water-damaged electronics.
Professional repair stores, such as those associated with Simply Fixable, have the tools and techniques to disassemble your laptop safely, dry out the components, and attempt to access the data stored on the hard drive or SSD.
To avoid this situation, it is highly recommended to back up your data regularly to either an external hard drive or cloud storage. Think of it as a preventative measure that can come in handy in case you spill water on your damage. It is better to be safe than sorry.
When dealing with water damage on an Asus laptop, it's essential to understand common mistakes that can worsen the situation so you can avoid them. Listed below are some common errors to avoid when there is water damage on a laptop;
One of the most common mistakes is applying heat in an attempt to dry out the laptop. Using hairdryers, microwaves, or placing the device in direct sunlight can seem like a quick fix but can actually cause irreversible damage. The intense heat can melt internal components and damage screens/plastics. Moreover, moisture under keyboards or circuit boards may also turn to steam, intensifying harm.
Turning your laptop on immediately after it gets wet is a gamble that often leads to short circuits. It is simple science that electronics and water do not go well together. Applying electricity can cause irreversible damage to the motherboard and other critical components. Make sure that the laptop is thoroughly dry before attempting to power it on.
Dismantling your laptop without understanding its internal structure can lead to further damage. If you're not confident in your skills, it's better to leave the disassembly and drying process to professionals. Improper handling can damage delicate connectors and rip out components, making professional repair more difficult and costly.
Your Asus Vivobook may have been damaged by water due to accidental spills, exposure to rain, or immersion in water, which can lead to short circuits, corrosion of internal components, and irreversible damage to the laptop's electronics.
To fix water damage on the Asus Vivobook, immediately power it off, disconnect all peripherals, remove the battery if possible, and dry the exterior gently. Then, let it dry in a warm, dry place for at least 48 hours.
Your Asus Zenbook may have been damaged by water due to accidental spills, water splashes, or submerging your laptop into the water, which can lead to electrical shorts, corrosion, and even damage to the internal components.
Firstly, immediately turn the Asus Zenbook off. Disconnect all the cables or external devices. Dry the outer part of the laptop with a soft cloth without putting too much pressure, and let the laptop dry itself in a well-ventilated area for at least 48 hours.
Your Asus Chromebook might have been damaged by exposing it to water or any other liquid, such as coffee or juice, causing electrical shorts, corrosion, or damage to the internal components.
To fix a water-damaged Asus Chromebook, quickly power it off and disconnect all power sources and external devices. Gently dry your laptop with a cloth and leave it in a well-ventilated area for 2 days at least.
Your Asus keyboard may have been exposed to water or moisture, which has led to the malfunctioning of the keys.
To fix a water-damaged Asus keyboard, immediately disconnect it (if external) or power off your laptop. Gently tilt the keyboard or laptop to drain excess liquid, then dry the surface with a soft cloth. Allow your laptop to dry completely in normal temperatures. If the keyboard doesn’t work after this, it’s better to get it checked by a repair professional.
Preventing water damage to your Asus laptop requires a proactive approach to avoid accidents and protect your device. Here are some essential tips to help you safeguard your laptop from potential water hazards:
Always maintain a safe distance between any liquids and your laptop. It's easy to knock over a drink, so keep it away to prevent any accidents.
A keyboard is one of the most vulnerable areas for liquid damage. A waterproof keyboard cover can protect against spills directly on the keyboard.
Ensure your work area is stable, flat, and away from edges where a laptop could easily fall into the water or have liquids spilled onto it.
When using your laptop outdoors or near windows, be cautious so as not to expose your device to water.
It's not safe to power on your Asus laptop after it has been exposed to water, as doing so can cause further damage
Water damage can indeed cause permanent damage to your Asus laptop by affecting internal components and even leading to corrosion.
Using rice or silica gel to absorb moisture is recommended since many users have seen success by using these methods.
Addressing water damage on an Asus laptop requires immediate and careful action to contain the damage and prevent it from completely frying. From the initial response of turning off and drying the device to avoiding common mistakes such as using inappropriate heat sources, each step is important, and the life of your device depends on it.
Moreover, by regularly backing up data, users can protect their data against loss in case of water damage. Although water damage is a serious threat to electronic devices, cautious handling may just lead to a successful outcome, preserving both the device and the data it contains.
Tech Writer | Photographer
LinkedIn: Madiha Khadim
Madi is a dynamic tech writer with a passion for simplifying complex concepts. Her expertise lies in creating clear and concise guides, blogs, manuals, and tutorials that empower users to navigate the technological landscape with ease. Throughout her career, Madi has worked with numerous leading tech companies, collaborating with engineers, developers, designers and marketers to create user manuals, FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and tech articles, on the websites such as "Technology Castle" and "Bilzimo". She can transform intricate technical jargon into user-friendly language, empowering users to understand and utilize products effectively.
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