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How to Deal With a Spill On Your Computer

Member
By SchoolOfLife
User-Submitted Article
(0 Ratings)
Oh no! A spill!
Oh no! A spill!

Did you spill liquid on your computer? Was it water- or worse- milk or soda? These liquids can not only damage your computer by short circuiting it, they can also corrode the hardware in a short period of time. Don't panic just yet...

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • a computer
  • a spill
  • patience
  1. Step 1

    Try not to panic over the spill. Disconnect the power and shut down your computer immediately. Don't take the time to "shut down" properly- stop what you're doing and turn it off. Remove the power source (plug) and remove the battery. Make sure that all devices are disconnected from your computer. The faster you act, the better your chances of a recovery are.

  2. Step 2

    Quickly wipe up any liquid that you can see, and turn your computer over so that it can drain. Don't shake your computer. With the USB and Adapter openings facing down, put your computer in a "V" shape on its side, on a few paper towels if necessary.

  3. Step 3

    Do NOT turn on your computer. Impatience can cost you your entire computer. Turning your computer on before it is completely dry can short circuit your hard drive or motherboard, and your computer will be toast. Patience is truly a virtue in this instance.

  4. Step 4

    Wait a minimum of two days, preferably three. After this time is up, insert your battery and power your computer on. If you computer turns on, you are very lucky.

  5. Step 5

    Just because your computer is functioning doesn't mean you are completely safe. Back up your data and make an appointment to have your computer cleaned by a professional. This will help ensure that whatever you spilled on your computer does not corrode your hardware and cause future problems later on.

  6. Step 6

    Try not to have drinks or other liquids around your computer while you're working on it. :) Yeah, I know- it's hard...

Tips & Warnings
  • Act quickly- the faster you act, the better chances you have of saving your computer.
  • Do not attempt to take your computer apart- this should be done by a professional, and may void your warranty.

Comments  

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on 8/23/2009 Excellent advice 5*****

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