As a drone enthusiast, there’s nothing more thrilling than capturing breathtaking aerial footage with your trusty DJI drone. But, what happens when disaster strikes, and your drone takes an unexpected dip in the water? Panic sets in, and you’re left wondering if your investment is doomed to become a fancy paperweight. Fear not, dear aerial adventurers! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to take if your DJI drone falls in water, increasing the chances of resuscitating your beloved device.
Act Fast: The Golden Hour of Drone Recovery
Time is of the essence when it comes to salvaging your water-logged drone. The sooner you act, the higher the chances of recovery. The golden hour of drone recovery is the first 24 hours after the incident. During this critical period, the internal components are less likely to suffer permanent damage from corrosion.
Move quickly, but carefully. Rushing to retrieve your drone can do more harm than good. Take a deep breath, and follow the steps outlined below to minimize further damage.
Step 1: Retrieve Your Drone (Safely)
Before you do anything, ensure your safety above all else. If the drone fell into a body of water with strong currents, deep waters, or hazardous conditions, do not attempt to retrieve it yourself. Instead, seek professional help or wait for assistance.
If it’s safe to do so, carefully wade into the water, or use a retrieval device like a pool skimmer or a fishing rod with a soft net to scoop up your drone. Be gentle, as rough handling can cause further damage.
Step 2: Turn It Off (Immediately)
As soon as you’ve retrieved your drone, turn it off to prevent any short circuits that could cause irreversible damage. This is crucial, as any electrical activity can exacerbate the situation.
Do not attempt to turn it on or check if it’s working. This could create a power surge, causing a detrimental chain reaction within the electronic components.
Step 3: Remove Batteries and Accessories
Disconnect the battery, propellers, and any other accessories to prevent any potential electrical shock or short circuits. This will also help to reduce the risk of corrosion.
Step 4: Dry the Exterior
Gently pat the exterior of the drone with a soft cloth or towel to remove any excess water. Avoid rubbing or applying pressure, which can push water further into the electronics.
Step 5: Disassemble (If Necessary)
If you’re comfortable with disassembling your drone, do so to help the drying process. Remove the camera, gimbal, and any other components that may be obstructing airflow. This will aid in the evaporation of water and reduce the risk of corrosion.
Be cautious when disassembling, as you don’t want to cause further damage or strip any screws.
Step 6: Dry the Interior
Use desiccants like silica gel packets, uncooked rice, or a drying bag specifically designed for electronics to absorb moisture from the interior. Place the drone in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
Avoid using heat guns or hairdryers, as they can cause damage to the internal components or warpage of the circuit boards.
Step 7: Clean Corrosion (If Present)
If you notice corrosion or rust on any metal components, gently clean it off using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mixture of baking soda and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the electronics.
Step 8: Inspect and Replace Damaged Components
Once the drone is dry, inspect the internal components for signs of damage. Check for rust, corrosion, or water spots on the circuit boards, motors, and other essential parts.
Replace any damaged components, as attempting to repair or reuse them can lead to further issues or even cause a safety hazard.
Step 9: Reassemble and Test
Reassemble your drone, taking care to reconnect all components correctly. When you’re confident that everything is in order, turn it on and test its functionality.
Start with simple tests, such as powering on the drone, checking the propellers, and testing the cameras. Gradually move on to more complex tests, like flying and GPS navigation.
Additional Tips and Precautions
- Store your drone in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent moisture buildup and corrosion.
- Regularly inspect and maintain your drone to identify potential issues before they become major problems.
- Use a drone waterproof case or bag when transporting your drone near water or in humid environments.
- Invest in drone insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events like water damage.
Conclusion
If your DJI drone falls in water, it’s not the end of the world. By acting swiftly, following the steps outlined above, and taking necessary precautions, you can increase the chances of resuscitating your beloved drone.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Take steps to minimize the risk of water damage by storing your drone safely, inspecting it regularly, and using protective cases or bags.
Stay calm, stay patient, and with a little luck, your drone will be back in the skies in no time.
What should I do immediately after my DJI drone falls in water?
If your DJI drone has fallen in water, the first thing you should do is retrieve it as quickly as possible. The longer it stays in the water, the more damage it will sustain. Retrieve your drone carefully to avoid causing any further damage. Be gentle when handling the drone and its components.
Once you have retrieved your drone, turn it off immediately to prevent any short circuits that could cause further damage. Remove the propellers and any other detachable parts to prevent any damage from rust or corrosion. Gently pat the exterior of the drone dry with a soft cloth to remove any excess water.
Will my DJI drone be ruined if it falls in saltwater?
Saltwater is more corrosive than freshwater, so it’s essential to act quickly to minimize the damage. If your DJI drone falls in saltwater, the salt can cause corrosion on the electronics and other components, which can ruin your drone. However, if you act quickly and follow the right procedures, you may be able to save your drone.
To minimize the damage, rinse your drone with freshwater as soon as possible to remove any salt residue. Then, follow the same procedures as you would for a freshwater dunk, including disassembling the drone and drying it out. The key is to act quickly to prevent the corrosion from spreading.
Can I use a hair dryer to dry out my waterlogged drone?
While it may be tempting to use a hair dryer to dry out your waterlogged drone, it’s not recommended. The hot air from the hair dryer can cause the water inside the drone’s components to evaporate too quickly, which can cause further damage. Additionally, the heat can cause the materials to warp or melt.
Instead, let your drone air dry slowly and naturally. You can use a desiccant or silica gel packets to absorb the moisture, but avoid using direct heat. Keep your drone in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, to allow it to dry slowly and naturally.
How do I dry out the internal components of my drone?
Drying out the internal components of your drone requires patience and care. Start by disassembling the drone and removing any components that can be taken apart, such as the gimbal, camera, or flight controller. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any debris or dirt from the components.
Once you have removed any removable components, use a desiccant or silica gel packets to absorb the moisture. Place the components in a sealed container or plastic bag with the desiccant and let it sit for several days or weeks, depending on the extent of the water damage. Check on the components periodically to see if they are dry and functional.
Will my DJI drone still fly after being submerged in water?
It’s possible that your DJI drone may still fly after being submerged in water, but it depends on the extent of the water damage. If the drone was only in the water for a short time and you were able to dry it out quickly, it may still be functional. However, if the drone was submerged for an extended period, the water damage may be more extensive, and it may not fly again.
Even if your drone still flies, it’s essential to inspect it carefully for any damage before flying again. Check for any signs of corrosion, rust, or water damage on the components, and make sure all the parts are functioning properly. If you’re unsure about the safety of your drone, it’s best to err on the side of caution and not fly it.
Can I send my waterlogged drone to DJI for repair?
DJI’s warranty policy does not cover water damage, so if your drone falls in water, it’s unlikely that DJI will repair or replace it for free. However, you can still contact DJI’s support team to see if they can offer any assistance or guidance on how to repair your drone.
If you’re not comfortable repairing your drone yourself, you can also consider sending it to a third-party repair service that specializes in drone repairs. They may be able to fix your drone, but be prepared for a potentially high repair bill.
How can I prevent my drone from falling in water in the future?
The best way to prevent your drone from falling in water is to be cautious when flying near water. Avoid flying over deep water or areas with strong currents, and make sure you have a clear path to land if something goes wrong. It’s also a good idea to practice flying over water in a safe and controlled environment to build your skills and confidence.
Additionally, consider investing in a waterproof drone or a drone with a waterproof housing to minimize the risk of water damage. You can also use a drone with a built-in float or a drone that can float on water, which can help prevent damage if it falls in the water.