How to Protect Your Phone from Heat, Water, and Other Summer Hazards

Tech - by Joe Weber - updated on 3/6/2025

Summer is right around the corner, which means more time spent outdoors, at the beach, by the pool, and on the go. But while enjoying the sunshine, your phone could be at risk. Blazing heat, unexpected water exposure, and sudden temperature changes can all take a toll on your device, leading to battery drain, slow performance, and even permanent damage.

Want to keep your phone safe all summer long? Here's what you need to know about protecting your device from heat, water, sand, and other seasonal threats.

Heat: The Biggest Summer Threat to Your Phone

High temperatures can drain your battery, slow performance, and even cause permanent damage to your phone's components. Here's what happens when your phone overheats:

• Battery Wear – Excess heat degrades your battery, leading to shorter charge cycles.
• Slower Performance – Overheating forces your phone to slow down to protect itself.
• Screen & Internal Damage – Extreme heat can cause screen warping and internal hardware failures.

How to Prevent Overheating

• Keep your phone out of direct sunlight – Leaving it in the sun (or a hot car) can make it overheat fast.
• Don't charge your phone in hot environments – Charging generates heat, so do it in a cool, shaded area.
• Close unused apps – Running multiple apps makes your phone work harder, increasing heat.
• Remove the case if your phone feels warm – Some cases trap heat, making the problem worse.
• Use Airplane Mode in weak signal areas – Searching for a signal strains your phone's processor and battery.

Avoid These Cooling Mistakes:

• Never put your phone in the fridge or freezer – Rapid temperature shifts can cause condensation inside the device.
• Avoid placing it against an ice pack – Moisture can seep in and cause water damage.

Water: Protecting Your Phone from Splashes and Submersion

Beach trips, pool days, and unexpected rain showers all increase the risk of water damage. Even phones with an IP67 or IP68 water resistance rating aren't completely waterproof—they can still be damaged by prolonged exposure or certain liquids like salt water and chlorine.

How to Keep Your Phone Dry

• Use a waterproof pouch – A simple dry bag or waterproof phone case is your best defense at the pool or beach.
• Keep your phone out of splash zones – Do not leave it near the edge of pools, boats, or wet surfaces.
• Dry your hands before using it – Even small amounts of moisture can sneak into charging ports.
• Be extra cautious with saltwater – If your phone is exposed to ocean water, rinse it with fresh water, as salt can corrode internal components.

What to Do If Your Phone Gets Wet:

1. Turn it off immediately – Prevent short circuits.
2. Remove the case and dry the outside – Use a clean towel to wipe it down.
3. Leave it to dry in a cool, well-ventilated area – Silica gel packets work better than rice.
4. Avoid using heat sources (like a hairdryer) – They can push moisture further into the device.

If your phone won't turn on after drying, visit a Batteries Plus store for professional repair options.

Cold Weather & Sudden Temperature Changes

While summer is all about heat, rapid shifts between hot and cold environments—like going from the sweltering sun into air conditioning—can also harm your phone.

How to Prevent Cold-Related Issues

• Keep your phone in a pocket or bag when entering AC-heavy areas to let it adjust gradually.
• Use a protective case to help insulate your phone from extreme cold.
• Avoid using your phone in direct cold for too long—batteries drain faster in low temperatures.

Sand, Sunscreen, and Other Summer Hazards

Your phone faces more than just heat and water in the summer. Sand, sunscreen, and dust can all find their way into ports and speakers, causing long-term damage.

How to Keep Your Phone Clean

• Use a dust-proof case – Some cases are designed to keep out sand and debris.
• Wipe your hands before using your phone – Sunscreen and lotions can smudge the screen or seep into buttons.
• Store it in a zippered pouch or bag – Keeping it in a sealed compartment prevents sand buildup.
• Use compressed air to clean ports – If sand gets inside, a quick burst of air can help remove it.

When to Replace Your Phone Battery

Even with proper care, summer conditions can take a toll on your battery. If you notice:

• Your phone isn't holding a charge as long as it used to
• It takes longer to charge
• It shuts down unexpectedly

… it may be time for a battery replacement.

At Batteries Plus, we offer fast, professional battery replacements for iPhones, Samsung Galaxy devices, and more.

Need a Repair? We've Got You Covered!

If your phone has suffered from heat, water, or sand damage, Batteries Plus can help! We repair most phone parts quickly and at a reasonable price—from screens and batteries to charging ports and buttons.

Why Choose Batteries Plus for Your Phone Repair?

At Batteries Plus, our technicians are WISE-certified, ensuring your repair is done by highly trained professionals using quality parts and industry-approved techniques. WISE (Wireless Industry Service Excellence) certification means:

• Expert Technicians – Our repair specialists undergo rigorous training and testing.
• High-Quality Repairs – We use top-tier parts and follow strict industry standards.
• Trusted Service – Repairs are completed with precision and care, so your phone performs like new.

Contact your local Batteries Plus store for more information, or schedule your repair service online today!