As a drone enthusiast, there’s nothing more frustrating than watching your expensive device take an unexpected swim. Whether you’re a professional aerial photographer or a casual hobbyist, getting your drone wet can be a devastating experience. But fear not, dear drone pilots! With the right techniques and a dash of luck, you can revive your waterlogged drone and get it flying again.
The Importance of Acting Fast
When your drone gets wet, time is of the essence. The longer you wait to take action, the more damage the water can cause to your device’s sensitive electronics. In the first few hours after the incident, you have the best chance of saving your drone from water damage. So, don’t waste a single minute – follow these steps to increase the chances of a successful recovery.
Step 1: Turn It Off Immediately
The moment you realize your drone has gotten wet, turn it off right away. This might seem like an obvious step, but it’s crucial to avoid short circuits that can cause further damage. Powering off your drone will prevent any electrical current from flowing through the waterlogged components, reducing the risk of permanent damage.
Step 2: Remove Batteries and Accessories
Quickly remove the batteries, propellers, and any other accessories from your drone. This will help prevent any short circuits and reduce the risk of electrical shock. Set the removed parts aside, and make sure they’re completely disconnected from the drone’s main body.
Step 3: Dry the Exterior
Gently pat the drone’s exterior with a soft cloth or paper towels to remove any excess water. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure, which can push the water further into the drone’s internal components. Focus on the visible areas, such as the drone’s shell, landing gear, and any exposed screws or connectors.
Drying the Drone’s Internal Components
Now it’s time to tackle the more challenging task of drying the internal components. This requires patience, care, and the right techniques to avoid causing further damage.
Disassembling the Drone (Optional)
If you’re comfortable with DIY repairs and have the necessary technical expertise, you can try disassembling the drone to access the internal components. However, this should only be attempted if you’re confident in your abilities, as improper disassembly can cause more harm than good. Make sure to consult your drone’s manual or online tutorials specific to your model before attempting any repairs.
Desiccant Bags or Silica Gel
One effective method for drying internal components is to use desiccant bags or silica gel packets. These can be placed near the drone or even inside the drone’s compartments to absorb moisture. Seal the drone in a plastic bag or airtight container with the desiccant bags or silica gel packets and let it sit for 24 to 48 hours. This method can help draw out the moisture from the internal components gradually.
Rice or Other Desiccants (Not Recommended)
You might have heard the old trick of using uncooked rice or other desiccants to dry a wet drone. While this method has worked for some, it’s not the most effective or recommended approach. Rice can leave behind dust or debris that can compromise the drone’s internal components, and other desiccants may not be as effective as silica gel or desiccant bags.
Professional Repair or Replacement
If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs or if your drone has suffered extensive water damage, it’s best to seek the help of a professional repair service or the manufacturer’s authorized repair center. They have the necessary expertise and equipment to diagnose and fix complex issues.
Assessing the Damage
Before sending your drone for repair, assess the extent of the damage to determine if it’s worth repairing. Check for signs of corrosion, rust, or burnt components, which can indicate irreversible damage. If your drone has been submerged in water for an extended period or has suffered significant physical damage, it might be more cost-effective to replace it.
Preventing Future Water Damage
To avoid the hassle of dealing with a wet drone in the future, take the following precautions:
- Always check the weather forecast before flying, and avoid flying during heavy rain or strong winds.
- Use a waterproof drone case or cover when storing or transporting your drone.
- Inspect your drone regularly for signs of wear and tear, and perform routine maintenance to ensure all seals and gaskets are in good condition.
- Invest in a drone with a waterproof design, such as those with IP67 or higher ratings, which can withstand accidental dips in water.
| Waterproof Rating | Description |
|---|---|
| IP67 | Protected against immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes |
| IP68 | Protected against immersion in water beyond 1 meter |
Conclusion
Getting your drone wet can be a stressful experience, but with the right techniques and a bit of luck, you can revive your beloved device. Remember to act fast, turn off your drone immediately, and take steps to dry the exterior and internal components. If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, consider seeking the help of a professional repair service or the manufacturer’s authorized repair center. By following these tips and taking preventative measures, you can ensure your drone remains in top condition and continues to capture breathtaking aerial footage for years to come.
What should I do if my drone falls into water?
If your drone falls into water, the first thing to do is to act quickly and carefully. Retrieve the drone from the water as soon as possible to minimize the damage. Avoid turning it on or trying to operate it while it’s still wet, as this can cause further damage to the electrical components.
Once you have retrieved the drone, gently pat it dry with a soft cloth or towel to remove any excess water. Do not rub the drone vigorously or apply heat to it, as this can cause damage to the internal components. You can also use desiccant packets or silica gel to help absorb any moisture.
How do I dry out my drone after it gets wet?
To dry out your drone, start by disassembling it as much as possible to help it dry faster. Remove the propellers, battery, and any other detachable parts. Use a soft-bristled brush or a can of compressed air to gently remove any debris or water droplets from the drone’s crevices.
Place the drone and its parts in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. You can also use a dehumidifier or a fan to speed up the drying process. Avoid using hair dryers, ovens, or other heat sources to dry the drone, as this can cause damage to the internal components.
Can I use my drone again after it gets wet?
It’s possible to use your drone again after it gets wet, but it depends on the extent of the damage. If the drone was only partially submerged or exposed to a small amount of water, it might still be usable after it’s dried out completely.
However, if the drone was fully submerged or exposed to a large amount of water, it’s likely that some of the internal components may be damaged. In this case, it’s best to have it checked by a professional or the manufacturer before attempting to use it again.
How do I prevent water damage to my drone?
To prevent water damage to your drone, always check the weather forecast before flying and avoid flying over water or in rainy conditions. Also, make sure to use a waterproof drone case or bag to store your drone when not in use.
Regularly inspect your drone for any signs of wear and tear, and perform routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning and lubricating the moving parts. This can help to prevent water from entering the drone’s electrical components.
Can I repair my drone myself if it gets wet?
While it’s possible to repair your drone yourself if it gets wet, it’s not recommended unless you have extensive knowledge of drone repair and electronics. Water damage can be unpredictable, and attempting to repair it yourself can cause further damage or even make it unusable.
It’s recommended to send the drone to the manufacturer or a professional repair service that specializes in drone repair. They have the necessary expertise and equipment to assess the damage and perform the necessary repairs.
Will my drone’s warranty cover water damage?
It depends on the manufacturer’s warranty policy, but most drone warranties do not cover water damage or any damage caused by user error. Some manufacturers may offer extended warranty options that include accidental damage coverage, but this may require an additional fee.
Always review the manufacturer’s warranty policy before purchasing a drone, and make sure you understand what’s covered and what’s not.
What are some water-resistant drone options?
If you plan to fly your drone over water or in wet conditions, consider investing in a water-resistant drone. Some drones have IP67 or higher ratings, which means they can withstand immersion in water up to a certain depth.
Look for drones with waterproof coatings, sealed compartments, and drainage holes to help prevent water from entering the electrical components. Some popular water-resistant drone options include the DJI Matrice 300, the Yuneec Typhoon H Pro, and the Autel EVO II.