MacBook Water Damage: Why Rice Doesn't Work

The Rice Myth Debunked

Putting your water-damaged MacBook in rice is one of the most persistent tech myths. Here's why it doesn't work and can actually make things worse:

• Rice isn't a good desiccant: It absorbs moisture very slowly compared to proper drying agents
• Corrosion continues: While you wait for rice to work, corrosion is actively damaging your MacBook's components
• Rice particles: Small rice particles and dust can enter ports and vents, causing additional problems
• False sense of security: The time wasted with rice allows damage to spread

What Actually Happens During Water Damage

When liquid enters your MacBook, several processes begin immediately:

1. Short Circuits: Water conducts electricity, causing components to short circuit. This can happen within seconds.

2. Corrosion Begins: Within minutes, corrosion starts forming on the logic board and other components. This process accelerates with power present.

3. Mineral Deposits: As water evaporates, it leaves behind minerals and contaminants that can cause permanent damage.

4. Component Degradation: Sensitive components like capacitors and chips begin to degrade immediately upon contact with liquid.

What You Should Do Instead

Immediate Actions (First 5 Minutes):

1. Power off immediately - don't try to save your work
2. Disconnect all cables and peripherals
3. Turn the MacBook upside down in a tent position
4. Wipe away visible liquid with a lint-free cloth
5. Do NOT use a hair dryer or heat source

Critical: Do NOT attempt to turn it on to "check if it works" - this causes additional damage!

Professional Water Damage Treatment

Professional repair is essential because:

• Ultrasonic Cleaning: We use specialized ultrasonic baths to remove all corrosion
• Component-Level Inspection: Every component is inspected under microscope
• Proper Drying: Professional equipment ensures complete moisture removal
• Corrosion Treatment: Special solutions neutralize ongoing corrosion
• Component Replacement: Damaged components are replaced at board level

Time Is Critical

The success rate of water damage repair depends heavily on response time:

• Within 24 hours: 85% success rate
• 24-48 hours: 65% success rate
• After 72 hours: 40% success rate
• After 1 week: Less than 20% success rate

Every hour counts - bring your MacBook to professionals immediately for the best chance of recovery.

Prevention Tips

• Keep liquids away from your workspace
• Use spill-proof containers with lids
• Consider a keyboard cover for minor spill protection
• Maintain backups - water damage can result in data loss
• Consider AppleCare+ which covers liquid damage (with deductible)