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Unlocking the Secret to a Dry Apple Watch Series 3: Effective Techniques for Water Expulsion

Lindsey is a photographer based in Los Angeles. She has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in portraits and events. Lindsey started her career with DSLR cameras but made the switch to Nikon's line of Z mirrorless cameras in 2020. Since then, she has been extensively...

What To Know

  • The Apple Watch Series 3 is water-resistant to 50 meters (164 feet), meaning it can withstand splashes and even swimming in shallow water.
  • The speaker on the Apple Watch Series 3 is designed to expel water through a series of small holes.
  • If you’re unable to expel water from your Apple Watch Series 3 or if you suspect damage, it’s best to contact Apple Support.

The Apple Watch Series 3 is a fantastic smartwatch for fitness enthusiasts, especially swimmers. Its water resistance allows you to track your swimming workouts with ease. However, water can sometimes get trapped inside the watch, leading to a muffled sound or even affecting its functionality. If you’re wondering how to expel water from your Apple Watch Series 3, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Understanding Water Resistance and the Speaker

The Apple Watch Series 3 is water-resistant to 50 meters (164 feet), meaning it can withstand splashes and even swimming in shallow water. However, it’s crucial to understand that this doesn’t mean it’s waterproof. Water can still find its way into the speaker grille, especially if you’re swimming in rough waters or engaging in water sports that involve high pressure.
The speaker on the Apple Watch Series 3 is designed to expel water through a series of small holes. When water enters the speaker grille, it can get trapped in these holes, leading to muffled sound or even blocking the speaker completely.

How to Expel Water from Your Apple Watch Series 3

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to expel water from your Apple Watch Series 3:
1. Remove the Watch Band: Take off your Apple Watch band to expose the speaker grille.
2. Tilt and Tap: Gently tilt the watch side-to-side and tap the back of the watch lightly. This will help dislodge any water trapped in the speaker grille.
3. Use a Dry Cloth: If water is still present, use a clean, dry cloth to gently wipe the speaker grille and any other areas where water might have accumulated.
4. Use a Hairdryer: For more stubborn water, you can use a hairdryer on a low heat setting. Hold the hairdryer a few inches away from the watch and gently blow air over the speaker grille. **Important:** Do not use high heat as it can damage the watch.
5. Water Expulsion Mode: Apple Watch Series 3 and later models have a built-in water expulsion mode. To activate this mode:

  • Open the Control Center on your Apple Watch.
  • Tap the Water Drop icon.
  • The watch will play a sound to expel any remaining water.

6. Wait for the Speaker to Dry: After expelling the water, let the watch air dry completely. Avoid wearing it for a few hours to ensure the speaker is fully dry.

Preventing Water from Entering Your Apple Watch

Here are some tips to prevent water from entering your Apple Watch Series 3 in the first place:

  • Avoid Swimming in Deep Water: The Apple Watch Series 3 is not designed for deep-water diving or swimming.
  • Avoid High-Pressure Water Sports: Activities like water skiing or wakeboarding can generate high pressure, which can force water into the watch.
  • Clean Your Watch Regularly: After swimming or showering, gently wipe down your Apple Watch with a clean, dry cloth to remove any moisture.
  • Don’t Wear Your Watch in a Sauna or Steam Room: The extreme heat in these environments can damage the watch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you’re still experiencing problems with your Apple Watch after following these steps, here are some common issues and solutions:

  • Muffled Sound: If the sound is muffled, but you can still hear it, try cleaning the speaker grille with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • No Sound: If you can’t hear any sound at all, the speaker might be damaged. Contact Apple Support or an authorized repair center.
  • Water Damage: If you notice any signs of water damage, such as condensation or corrosion, immediately stop using the watch and contact Apple Support.

When to Contact Apple Support

If you’re unable to expel water from your Apple Watch Series 3 or if you suspect damage, it’s best to contact Apple Support. They can provide guidance and assistance, or direct you to an authorized repair center.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Apple Watch Series 3 Swimming-Ready

By following these tips and taking proper care of your Apple Watch Series 3, you can keep it swimming-ready and enjoy all its features. Remember, water resistance doesn’t mean waterproof. Always use caution when swimming or engaging in water sports with your Apple Watch, and if you encounter any issues, contact Apple Support for assistance.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use a vacuum cleaner to expel water from my Apple Watch?
A: No, using a vacuum cleaner is not recommended as it can damage the watch’s internal components.
Q: How long should I wait before wearing my Apple Watch after expelling water?
A: It’s best to wait for at least a few hours to ensure the speaker is completely dry.
Q: What should I do if my Apple Watch gets wet and I can’t dry it immediately?
A: If you can’t dry your Apple Watch immediately, remove the band and gently pat it dry with a clean cloth. Avoid using any harsh cleaning agents or abrasive materials.
Q: Does the water expulsion mode work on all Apple Watch models?
A: The water expulsion mode is available on Apple Watch Series 3 and later models.
Q: Can I use my Apple Watch Series 3 for scuba diving?
A: No, the Apple Watch Series 3 is not designed for scuba diving or other underwater activities that involve significant pressure changes.

Lindsey

Lindsey is a photographer based in Los Angeles. She has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in portraits and events. Lindsey started her career with DSLR cameras but made the switch to Nikon's line of Z mirrorless cameras in 2020. Since then, she has been extensively testing and reviewing Nikon's latest mirrorless cameras like the Z5, Z6, Z7 and Z50 on her blog. Through her writing on lindseyshoots.com, Lindsey aims to help other photographers make the transition from DSLRs to mirrorless. She shares detailed hands-on reviews, comparisons between different mirrorless camera models, tips for beginners, and photo tutorials. When she isn't testing cameras, Lindsey enjoys landscape, street and travel photography. Her work has been published in several magazines and online publications. Lindsey is also a member of the Nikon Professional Services program.
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