This article was automatically translated from Japanese using AI. The Japanese version is the authoritative version.
If you work at a desk with a laptop, sooner or later you will probably spill a drink on it.
I once spilled a drink on my own MacBook Pro and nearly lost the files I needed to graduate.
So here I want to share what to do when your computer gets soaked.
What to do right after a spill
First of all, when you spill a drink, avoid doing anything careless like turning the computer on.
Instead, shut the power off immediately and stand the computer up on the side where the drink was spilled, so that no more liquid seeps inside or spreads to areas that are still dry.
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Once you have confirmed that the surface of the computer is dry (after several hours to a day), try turning it on and check its condition.
What to do next
Depending on the condition, there are several options.
Coverage from the retailer or manufacturer
Some manufacturers’ warranties include accidental damage coverage, so check whether your case qualifies.
If you can use this kind of coverage, it is likely to be the cheapest way to get your machine back.
With a standard manufacturer’s warranty, liquid damage is very likely to be excluded.
That said, many manufacturers still accept repair requests, so it is worth asking for a paid repair.
Computer repair shops
Many computer repair shops handle water-damaged machines.
Some also work on MacBooks, so it is well worth considering this option.
They can also inspect the inside of your computer, so even if you only spilled a small amount and simply want peace of mind, they will check it for you.
And if a repair is needed, they can handle a wide range of work, so the chances of recovery are very high.
Why leaving it alone is a bad idea
Even after a spill, a computer will often work again a day later.
Even so, I do not recommend just leaving it at that.
If moisture has reached the circuit board, it can cause a sudden short circuit or corrode the board.
You often hear about machines that worked for a while after getting wet and then suddenly died, so get the computer repaired as soon as you can.
Acting early may mean a simple cleaning is enough, and it keeps the cost down.
What you can do in advance, just in case
When a computer gets soaked, recovering the data is often difficult.
For exactly that reason, back up your computer regularly.
Computers tend to break down precisely when you need them most, such as when you are up against a thesis deadline.
Not being able to retrieve your data at a moment like that is a serious problem.
I have been in exactly that situation myself….