Tech Tip of the Day: Rainy Day Ready — Protect Your Tech from Moisture and Cold
As the mornings get colder and the rain rolls in, it’s not just your clothes that need extra care—your tech does too. Phones, laptops, tablets, and even accessories like chargers and headphones are all vulnerable to moisture and temperature swings this time of year.
Condensation can creep into your devices, especially if you’re moving them between the cold outdoors and a warm, dry home or office. And if you’ve ever left a phone in the car overnight, you know that chill doesn’t play nice with your battery life.
Here’s how to protect your tech this rainy season:
1. Don’t power on cold, damp devices immediately.
If your phone or laptop feels cold to the touch—or worse, damp—wait. Let it return to room temperature before you turn it on. Powering on too early could cause short circuits if condensation formed inside.
2. Use waterproof or weather-resistant gear.
Transporting your laptop or tablet in a standard backpack? Upgrade to a weatherproof sleeve or case, especially if you’re walking or commuting in the rain. Even a sealed Ziplock bag can help in a pinch.
3. Keep your charging ports clean and dry.
Moisture inside a USB or charging port is a common issue when devices are exposed to rain. Avoid charging your phone until you’re certain it’s dry.
4. Let devices air dry naturally.
If something does get wet, don’t grab a hairdryer. Instead, power it down, unplug everything, and place it in a dry, room-temperature space. You can use silica gel packs or even uncooked rice in a sealed bag to absorb extra moisture.
5. Store tech inside overnight.
Your car may be convenient, but the temperature fluctuations—especially between a cold night and a warm engine start in the morning—can create condensation. Always bring important devices inside when possible.
Bonus Tip from Working Dog Tech:
If you’ve already had a close call with water or cold-related tech damage, don’t wait. A quick video consult or in-person inspection can help prevent a total failure.