Dealing with a Water-Damaged Laview Camera? Here's What to Do
Accidents happen. Whether your Laview camera was caught in a severe downpour, dropped in a puddle, or sprayed with a hose, water ingress can cause serious damage. However, quick and correct action can sometimes save the device from permanent failure.
This guide will provide you with the crucial steps to take immediately after your camera has been exposed to water. Following these steps is not a guarantee of recovery, but it offers the best possible chance.
CRITICAL First Step: Disconnect All Power Immediately
This is the most important step. Water itself isn't the instant killer for electronics; electricity is. When power flows through wet circuitry, it causes short circuits that can burn out components permanently.
- Wired Cameras: Unplug the power adapter from the electrical outlet immediately.
- Battery-Powered Cameras: If your model has a removable battery, eject it as quickly as possible.
- PoE (Power over Ethernet) Cameras: Disconnect the Ethernet cable from the camera or from the PoE switch/injector.
Do NOT attempt to power the camera on to check if it still works. This is the worst thing you can do.
Step 2: Disassemble and Dry the Exterior
Once the power is removed, you need to begin the drying process.
- Remove what you can: Open any covers, such as the SD card slot or battery compartment, to allow air to circulate. Remove the SD card and any batteries.
- Towel Dry: Use a soft, absorbent cloth (like a microfibre towel) to gently pat dry the entire exterior of the camera.
- Address Nooks and Crannies: Use cotton swabs to carefully absorb water from seams, ports, and other hard-to-reach areas.
Step 3: The Internal Drying Process (Patience is Key)
The most critical part is drying the internal components you can't see. You need to use a desiccant to draw the moisture out.
- The Rice Method (Good): The most well-known method is to submerge the camera in a bowl or bag of uncooked rice. The rice acts as a desiccant, absorbing moisture. Ensure the camera is fully covered.
- The Silica Gel Method (Better): A more effective option is to use silica gel packets (the small packets you find in new shoes or electronics boxes). Place the camera and several silica packets in an airtight, sealed container.
Leave the camera in the desiccant for a minimum of 48 to 72 hours. Do not rush this process. It takes a long time for all the internal moisture to be drawn out.
Step 4: The Moment of Truth - Testing the Camera
After at least two to three days, you can attempt to power the camera back on.
- Inspect for Moisture: Before re-inserting the battery or plugging it in, look closely at the lens and any visible ports for any signs of remaining condensation or moisture. If you see any, put it back in the desiccant.
- Power On: If it looks completely dry, insert the battery or connect the power cable.
- Observe: Watch for any unusual behaviour, such as flickering lights, smoke, or strange noises. If you notice anything, disconnect the power immediately.
- Test Functionality: If it powers on normally, test all its functions – video feed, recording, night vision, etc.
Preventing Future Water Damage
- Check IP Ratings: Ensure your outdoor cameras have an appropriate IP (Ingress Protection) rating (e.g., IP66 or higher) for their installation environment.
- Proper Installation: Mount the camera according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring any protective seals or gaskets are correctly in place.
- Shelter if Possible: Whenever you can, install outdoor cameras under an eave or other form of shelter to protect them from the worst of the elements.