How to Get Water Out of AirPods Pro: The Expert’s Guide

So, you’ve just fished your AirPods Pro out of the washing machine, accidentally worn them in the shower, or had them unexpectedly dunked in a pool. Panic not! While these little marvels of audio engineering aren’t fully waterproof, they are water-resistant to a certain degree. The key to saving your soaked AirPods Pro is swift and careful action. Don’t plug them in and start blasting tunes just yet; that could spell disaster. Here’s how to expertly extract that unwanted H2O and hopefully rescue your audio investment:

The immediate action steps are:

1. Immediately remove them from the water source. The longer they are exposed, the more damage they will sustain.
2. Wipe them down meticulously with a soft, lint-free cloth. Think the kind you use to clean your glasses or phone screen. Avoid abrasive materials.
3. Gently shake out excess water. Hold the AirPods Pro upside down and gently shake them to dislodge any water trapped in the speaker grills and microphone ports.
4. Let them air dry. Place the AirPods Pro and the charging case in a well-ventilated area for at least 24-48 hours. Patience is crucial here.
5. Consider using silica gel packets. These packets absorb moisture. Placing the AirPods Pro and the charging case in a sealed container with silica gel packets can accelerate the drying process.
6. Resist the urge to use heat. Avoid using hair dryers, ovens, or direct sunlight to dry your AirPods Pro. Excessive heat can damage the delicate internal components.
7. Test carefully after drying. After the recommended drying time, try connecting your AirPods Pro to your device. If they’re not working correctly, seek professional help.

Understanding Water Resistance in AirPods Pro

AirPods Pro are rated IPX4, which means they are resistant to sweat and water splashes from any direction. This doesn’t mean they’re waterproof and can survive submersion. The water resistance can also degrade over time, especially if the AirPods Pro have been dropped or damaged. Think of it as a water-resistant jacket – it’ll handle a light drizzle, but not a torrential downpour.

The Importance of Thorough Drying

Water damage is a slow-burning threat to electronics. Even a small amount of residual moisture can cause corrosion and short circuits over time. That’s why a patient and thorough drying process is paramount. Don’t be tempted to rush things. Give those AirPods Pro the time they need to recover.

What Not to Do When Your AirPods Pro Get Wet

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Here’s a list of actions to avoid:

• Don’t use a hair dryer or other heat source: This can warp or melt internal components.
• Don’t plug them in to charge immediately: This can cause a short circuit and potentially ruin your AirPods Pro.
• Don’t use compressed air: This can force water further inside the device.
• Don’t insert anything into the charging port or speaker grills: This can damage the delicate internal components.
• Don’t assume they’re fine just because they turn on: Even if they seem to be working after a short drying period, internal damage may still be occurring.

Troubleshooting After Water Exposure

Even after careful drying, your AirPods Pro might exhibit some issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems:

• No sound in one or both AirPods: Try cleaning the speaker grills with a dry toothbrush or cotton swab. If that doesn’t work, there may be internal damage requiring professional repair.
• Distorted sound: This could indicate water damage to the speaker driver. Again, professional repair may be necessary.
• Charging issues: If the charging case got wet, ensure it’s completely dry before attempting to charge the AirPods Pro.
• Connectivity problems: Resetting your AirPods Pro can sometimes resolve connectivity issues. To do this, press and hold the setup button on the back of the charging case until the status light flashes amber, then white.
• Microphone issues: Test the microphone by making a phone call or recording a voice memo. If the microphone is not working properly, it could be due to water damage.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’ve followed all the steps above and your AirPods Pro are still malfunctioning, it’s time to consult a professional. Authorized Apple service providers or reputable electronics repair shops have the tools and expertise to diagnose and repair water-damaged devices. Attempting to disassemble the AirPods Pro yourself could cause further damage and void any remaining warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Water and AirPods Pro

1. Are AirPods Pro Waterproof?

No, AirPods Pro are water-resistant, not waterproof. They have an IPX4 rating, meaning they can withstand splashes and sweat, but not submersion in water.

2. What does IPX4 mean for AirPods Pro?

IPX4 means the AirPods Pro are protected from water splashes from any direction. It does not mean they can be submerged in water.

3. Can I wear my AirPods Pro in the shower?

While they might survive a quick shower, it’s strongly discouraged. The prolonged exposure to water and soap can overwhelm the water resistance and damage the AirPods Pro.

4. What should I do if I accidentally put my AirPods Pro in the washing machine?

Immediately remove them, follow the drying steps outlined above, and hope for the best. The washing machine is a particularly harsh environment due to the agitation and detergent.

5. How long should I wait before using my AirPods Pro after they get wet?

Wait at least 24-48 hours to ensure they are completely dry before attempting to use them. Patience is key!

6. Is it safe to use a rice trick to dry my AirPods Pro?

While the rice trick is a common suggestion, its effectiveness is debated. It can potentially introduce dust and starch into the device. Silica gel packets are a better alternative. If you do use rice, ensure the AirPods Pro are properly sealed in a bag with the rice.

7. Can water damage void my AirPods Pro warranty?

Yes, water damage is generally not covered under the standard Apple warranty. However, you might have coverage under AppleCare+ or a third-party insurance plan.

8. How can I prevent water damage to my AirPods Pro?

Avoid wearing them in the shower, while swimming, or during intense workouts where you sweat excessively. Store them in a dry place and keep them away from liquids.

9. What are the signs of water damage in AirPods Pro?

Common signs include distorted sound, no sound in one or both AirPods, charging issues, connectivity problems, and microphone issues.

10. Can I use compressed air to dry my AirPods Pro?

No, compressed air can force water further into the device and cause more damage.

11. Is it possible to replace a single water-damaged AirPod Pro?

Yes, Apple typically allows you to replace individual AirPods Pro, although you’ll likely have to pay a fee, especially if the damage isn’t covered under warranty.

12. Are the AirPods Pro charging case water-resistant as well?

The charging case is not water-resistant. It’s crucial to keep the charging case dry, as water damage to the case can also affect the AirPods Pro.