Originally published by UScellular.
The National Weather Service (NOA) forecasts a heat wave for most of the country’s population beginning this week and the Weather Channel predicts that summer 2024 could see the highest temperatures in the last decade. For many, this means more time cooling off at the pool or at a beach, but this also means putting your smartphone at risk to high temperatures or water. A smartphone is a vital communication tool, but it’s important to remember that if your device is exposed to excessive heat or water, it could become damaged.
“As we enjoy summer activities, it’s important to remember to protect a device from heat and water damage so it works when needed,” says Nakeita Stewart, director of sales for UScellular in the Mid-Atlantic. “Leaving a phone in the car, under the hot sun or submerged in water can make it inoperable.”
UScellular offers some tips on how to keep a phone from overheating or becoming water-damaged:
- Get a water-resistant device: Consider getting a water-resistant phone so you can visit the pool or beach without fear. The iPhone 15 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S24+ offer water-resistant technology that allows them to be briefly submerged in water and still function correctly. You can also put a device in a waterproof bag to protect it from water and sand.
- Watch for signs: An overheated phone will likely display a temperature warning screen. If you see this, turn the phone off immediately to let it cool down. If your device is excessively hot or was submerged in water, remove the phone case and SIM card as well as any chargers or earbuds and store it somewhere cool to dry off. Never place a hot or wet phone into a refrigerator or freezer.
- Running hot: The harder a phone works to function, the hotter it runs. To keep a phone cooler, update a device’s operating system regularly. You can also enable energy saving features and low power modes can help keep devices from overheating.
- Wait it out: If your device becomes wet or hot, place it in a dry area with good circulation and wait at least five hours. You could also use a compressed aerosol air duster to blow out the water but avoid using heat from a hair dryer or microwave and don’t use household cleaning products. Additionally, avoid charging the phone until you’re sure it’s dry and cool.
- Protect your device: UScellular offers Device Protection+ that not only helps you replace a damaged phone, but also comes with tools to back up photos and fast device replacement – as soon as the same day.
