Help! My Sony Camera Has Water Damage
Accidents happen, and few things are more alarming for a photographer or videographer than seeing their expensive Sony camera exposed to water. Whether it was caught in a sudden downpour, splashed at the beach, or accidentally submerged, immediate and correct action is crucial. This guide provides essential first aid steps to take and explains what to do next to give your camera the best possible chance of survival.
Disclaimer: Water damage is a serious issue. These steps are intended to mitigate damage but are not a guarantee of a full recovery.
Immediate First Aid for a Wet Sony Camera
What you do in the first few minutes after water exposure can make all the difference. Follow these steps precisely.
1. DO NOT Turn It On
This is the most important rule. If the camera is off, leave it off. If it was on, turn it off immediately if possible. Turning on the camera while there is water inside can cause electrical short circuits, which are often the cause of permanent, irreparable damage.
2. Remove Power and Memory Cards
- Remove the Battery: Immediately open the battery compartment and take the battery out. This disconnects the main power source and is the most critical step in preventing short circuits.
- Remove Memory Card(s): Open the memory card slot and remove the card(s). This can help save your photos and also allows air to circulate inside the slot.
- Remove the Lens: If you have an interchangeable lens camera, remove the lens to allow the camera body's interior to air out. Check the lens for water damage separately.
3. Dry the Exterior
Use a soft, absorbent, lint-free cloth (like a microfibre cloth) to gently pat the exterior of the camera dry. Be thorough and get into all the nooks and crannies, around buttons, and on the LCD screen.
4. Begin the Drying Process
Now you need to draw the moisture out from the camera's internal components.
- Best Method: Silica Gel: The most effective method is to place the camera body (with all compartments open) into a large, airtight container or plastic bag. Fill the container with several silica gel packets. These are designed to absorb moisture and are much more effective than rice.
- Alternative Method: Uncooked Rice: If you do not have silica gel, you can use uncooked instant rice as a substitute, but it is less efficient and can introduce dust into the camera. Completely bury the camera in the rice.
- Patience is Key: Leave the camera in the sealed container for a minimum of 48-72 hours. Do not be tempted to check it early. You need to give the drying agent enough time to work.
What to Do After Drying
After at least two to three days, you can take the camera out of the container.
- Inspect for Moisture: Visually inspect the camera, especially the battery compartment and LCD screen, for any signs of remaining moisture or fogging. If you see any, put it back in the drying agent for another 24 hours.
- The Moment of Truth: If the camera looks completely dry, you can insert a fully charged battery and attempt to power it on.
- Test Functionality: If it powers on, test all its functions – take a picture, check the buttons, navigate the menu.
The Importance of Professional Servicing
Even if your camera seems to work perfectly after drying, it is strongly recommended that you send it to a certified Sony service centre for a professional inspection. Here's why:
- Corrosion: Water, especially saltwater or chlorinated water, leaves behind mineral deposits that can cause corrosion on the delicate internal electronics over time. A component that works today might fail a month from now due to this corrosion.
- Hidden Damage: Professionals can open the camera and properly clean the circuit boards and internal mechanisms, removing any residue and assessing the full extent of the damage.
Taking swift, correct action is vital when dealing with a water-damaged Sony camera. By following these steps, you maximise the chances of recovery and minimise the risk of long-term problems.