Axis Camera Water Damage: What to Do and How to Prevent It

Dealing with a Water-Damaged Axis Camera

Discovering that your professional-grade Axis security camera has been compromised by water damage is a serious issue. Whether it's due to a severe storm, a pressure washing incident, or a failed seal, water ingress can cause catastrophic failure to the sensitive electronic components inside.

Axis cameras are built to high standards, with many models offering excellent IP ratings for weather resistance. However, no device is completely immune to damage, especially with improper installation or extreme conditions. This guide outlines the immediate steps you should take and how to diagnose the extent of the problem.

Disclaimer: Dealing with water-damaged electronics carries risks. If you are not comfortable with these steps, please contact a professional installer or Axis support.

Step 1: Immediate Action - Disconnect Power Safely

This is the most critical step. Water and electricity do not mix. Leaving a wet camera powered on will almost certainly cause irreversible damage through short circuits.

• Power over Ethernet (PoE): If your camera is powered by PoE, disconnect the Ethernet cable from the network switch port that is providing power. This is the safest way to cut power remotely.
• Separate Power Supply: If the camera uses a separate power adapter, unplug it from the mains socket immediately.
• Prioritise Safety: If you need to use a ladder or access a difficult area, ensure you do so safely. Do not put yourself at risk, especially in wet or stormy conditions. Do not attempt to power the camera back on.

Step 2: Dry the Exterior and Bring It Indoors

Once the camera is safely powered down and disconnected, you can assess the situation.

• Retrieve the Camera: Carefully remove the camera from its mounting.
• External Drying: Use a dry, lint-free cloth to wipe down the entire exterior of the camera housing. Pay close attention to seams, connection points, and the lens cover.
• Move to a Dry Environment: Bring the camera inside to a warm, dry, and well-ventilated room. Do not place it on a radiator or use a hairdryer on high heat, as excessive heat can damage components. The goal is gentle, steady air circulation.

Step 3: Assess the Extent of the Water Ingress

Now you need to determine how badly the camera has been affected.

• Look for Obvious Signs: Check the lens dome or cover for any visible condensation or water droplets on the inside. This is a clear sign that the internal seals have been breached.
• Check the Connection Bay: Open any service hatches or connection covers. Look for any signs of moisture or corrosion (which can appear as green or white residue) on the ports and circuit boards.
• The Rice Myth: Placing electronics in a bag of uncooked rice is a popular but largely ineffective method. While rice does absorb some moisture, it is not efficient and can introduce dust and starch into sensitive parts of the camera. Air drying is a much better option. Allow the camera to sit for at least 48-72 hours in the dry location to give it the best chance for internal moisture to evaporate.

Step 4: The Moment of Truth - Testing the Camera

After you have allowed the camera to dry completely for several days, you can attempt to test it. This should be done in a safe, controlled environment (e.g., indoors on a test bench).

1. Inspect Again: Before connecting power, give the camera one last visual inspection for any signs of moisture.
2. Connect and Observe: Use a reliable PoE injector or power supply and connect the camera.
3. Watch and Listen: Pay close attention to any unusual sounds (crackling, popping) or smells (burning electronics). If you notice anything unusual, disconnect the power immediately.
4. Check for Network Activity: See if the camera appears on your network or if its status LEDs light up as expected.

Be Prepared for Bad News: In many cases, especially if the camera was powered on when the water damage occurred, the mainboard or image sensor will be permanently damaged. Common failure symptoms include a complete inability to power on, no network connection, or a distorted/non-existent video feed.

Prevention is the Best Cure

To avoid this situation in the future, always follow best practices during installation.

• Use the Correct IP Rating: Ensure the camera's IP rating (e.g., IP66, IP67) is suitable for its environment.
• Install Gaskets Correctly: Make sure all rubber seals and cable gaskets are seated properly and are not twisted or damaged.
• Use a Drip Loop: When running cables to the camera, form a "drip loop"—a small downward loop in the cable just before it enters the camera or wall. This ensures water drips off the bottom of the loop instead of running along the cable and into the camera's housing.
• Regular Inspections: Periodically check your outdoor cameras for any signs of wear and tear on the seals, especially after harsh weather.