Help! My Geeni Camera Got Wet: A Troubleshooting Guide
It's a sinking feeling when you realise your Geeni security camera has been exposed to water. Whether it was caught in a sudden downpour or accidentally splashed, liquid and electronics are not a good mix. But don't despair just yet. This guide will walk you through the steps to assess the situation and troubleshoot a water-damaged Geeni camera.
Immediate First Aid for Your Camera
If your camera has been exposed to water, time is of the essence. Acting quickly can make the difference between a temporary issue and permanent damage.
- Disconnect Power Immediately: The very first thing you must do is remove any power source. If your camera is plugged into the mains, unplug it. If it's a battery-powered model, remove the battery pack if possible. This helps prevent short circuits, which cause the most severe damage.
- Dry the Exterior: Use a soft, absorbent, lint-free cloth (like a microfibre cloth) to gently pat the outside of the camera dry. Get into all the crevices you can reach.
- Remove Accessories: Take off any removable parts, such as silicone skins, mounting brackets, or SD cards. This allows air to circulate more freely.
The Drying Out Process
Once you've completed the initial steps, the goal is to get the inside of the camera as dry as possible before attempting to power it on.
What Not to Do
- Do NOT turn the camera on to "see if it still works." This is the quickest way to cause a fatal short circuit.
- Do NOT use a hairdryer, heater, or microwave. Intense heat can warp the plastic housing, damage the lens, and harm delicate internal components.
- Do NOT shake the camera vigorously. This can spread the water further inside the device.
Recommended Drying Methods
- Air Drying: The simplest method. Place the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area for at least 48-72 hours. Position it so that any water can drain out easily.
- Silica Gel: A more effective method is to use desiccants. Place the camera in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag and surround it with silica gel packets (the kind you find in new shoe boxes or electronics packaging). This will actively draw the moisture out.
Assessing the Damage
After you have been patient and allowed the camera to dry completely for at least two to three days, you can attempt to power it back on.
- Inspect the Device: Before applying power, look for any signs of corrosion (a white or greenish crust) around the power ports or battery contacts. Check the lens for any persistent fogging or condensation.
- Power On: If everything looks clear, you can try plugging it in or reinserting the battery.
- Observe Functionality: Check if the status light comes on. Try to connect to the camera with the Geeni app. Test the live video feed, audio, and any other features.
If the camera powers on and functions correctly, you may have gotten lucky. However, monitor it closely for the next few days for any unusual behaviour. If it doesn't power on or if some features are not working, the internal components have likely been damaged.
When to Consider a Replacement
Unfortunately, water damage is often irreversible. If you've followed all the steps and your Geeni camera is still not working, it is probably time for a replacement. Attempting to repair complex electronics without the proper expertise can be difficult and is often not cost-effective. Check your warranty, but be aware that most standard warranties do not cover liquid damage.