Troubleshooting a Water damaged iPhone Turns on but Screen is Black

Water damage is one of the most dreaded types of iPhone damage. Accidents happen, and a slip into a pool, a splash in the rain, or a dive into a puddle can leave your iPhone in a perilous state. 

One common issue that arises from water damage is an iPhone that turns on but has a black screen. This can be a frustrating situation, but all hope is not lost. In this guide, we will explore the causes of this problem and provide you with some practical solutions. 

Remember, if you find yourself in such a predicament of a water-damaged iPhone turning on but the screen is black, seeking professional help from a mobile phone repair shop like CellPros in Fresno, CA, is always a wise choice.

Understanding the Problem

What Causes a Water-Damaged iPhone Screen to Turn Black?

Before we dive into solutions, let’s understand why your iPhone’s screen might go black after water damage, as outlined in our comprehensive guide on Reviving a Water-Damaged Phone Screen. Water can seep into various components of your device, causing electrical shorts and corrosion. When water infiltrates the screen’s connectors or the internal components responsible for the display, it can result in a black screen issue.

Immediate Steps to Take

1. Power Off Your iPhone

The first step when you discover that your iPhone screen is black after water exposure is to power it off immediately. Continuing to use the device in this state can cause further damage and make recovery more challenging. To turn off your iPhone:

  • Press and hold the Power button (located on the side or top of your device) and either Volume Up or Volume Down button simultaneously.
  • Slide the “slide to power off” slider on the screen.

2. Do Not Plug It In

Avoid the temptation to plug your iPhone into a charger or computer. Charging a water-damaged iPhone can lead to short circuits and additional damage.

3. Remove the SIM Card

Eject the SIM card tray and carefully remove the SIM card. This can help prevent potential damage to your SIM card and allow the internal components to dry more effectively.

4. Pat It Dry

Gently pat your iPhone dry with a clean, lint-free cloth or paper towel. Ensure you remove any visible water on the exterior.

5. Use Desiccants

Desiccant packets, like those found in packages of electronics or shoes, can help absorb moisture from your device. Place your iPhone in a sealed container with these desiccant packets. Be patient; this process may take a few days.

6. Avoid Heat Sources

While it might be tempting to speed up the drying process with a hairdryer or other heat sources, this can cause more harm. Heat can lead to further damage or even melt internal components.

7. Power On Your iPhone

After allowing your iPhone to dry for at least 48 hours, attempt to power it on. Connect it to a charger and let it charge for a while. If it turns on and functions properly, congratulations! You might have successfully resolved the issue.

8. Seek Professional Help

If your iPhone still has a black screen after drying and charging, it’s time to seek professional iPhone repair services. Water damage can be tricky to tackle on your own, and specialized tools and expertise are often required for a complete repair.

9. Visit a Mobile Phone Repair Shop

Mobile phone repair shops like CellPros in Fresno, CA, specialize in fixing water-damaged phones and black screen issues. They have the necessary tools and experience to diagnose and repair the damage effectively.

10. Screen Replacement

In cases where the water damage has caused irreparable harm to your iPhone’s screen or internal components, a screen replacement might be necessary. Professionals can replace the damaged screen with a new one, restoring your iPhone’s functionality.

11. Invest in a Waterproof Case

To protect your iPhone from future water damage, consider investing in a waterproof case. These cases provide an extra layer of protection and can prevent accidents from turning into disasters.

12. Be Cautious Around Water

Lastly, exercise caution when using your iPhone near water. Avoid taking your device into swimming pools, hot tubs, or other bodies of water. If you find yourself in a wet environment, keep your iPhone in a sealed waterproof bag.

Conclusion

Discovering that your water-damaged iPhone turns on but has a black screen can be disheartening, but it’s not the end of the road. 

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can remove water from the phone screen

However, it’s crucial to remember that water damage can be complex, and professional assistance is often the most reliable path to a full recovery. 

If you’re in Fresno, CA, and facing water damaged iPhone that turns on but the screen is black, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted mobile phone repair shop like CellPros-Peach for expert guidance and repair services.