Although the PlayStation 5 boasts a handful of advanced features, it’s still a pretty delicate console — and it requires proper cleaning and maintenance. In most cases, gaming consoles sit on a TV stand or desk, so they don’t get damaged too easily. But what are you supposed to do if your PS5 does happen to get wet?
The PS5 is not waterproof and if your console starts glitching, freezing, or doesn’t turn on, it may have water damage. If your PS5 gets wet, open it up immediately, soak up the water with a towel, and let the components dry out. If it still doesn’t work, send it to a professional for repair.
Let’s take a closer look at how you can tell if your PS5 has water damage, what you should do if it gets wet, and whether water damage is covered under warranty. It’s worth noting that you probably don’t want to position your console near a dog’s water bowl or under a fish tank! But accidents happen, a simple glass of water knocked of a shelf onto the console may put you in this situation.
Are PS5s Waterproof?
The PS5 (on Amazon) is neither waterproof nor water-resistant. However, if there are only a few drops of water on the outside of the console, there’s probably nothing to worry about. Just soak up the water with a towel and you’re good to go.
Water that has entered the console is a completely different story. Once water gets through the vents, it can seep into and destroy the components. This is because water amplifies electricity, causing high surges in the voltage and short-circuiting the components.
We talk through more details about the console–placement, management, etc.–in our Ultimate PS5 Owner’s Guide, so be sure to check that out after this!
How to Tell If a PS5 Has Water Damage
Water inside your PS5 can short-circuit or blow certain components. In most cases, water causes irreparable damage to components like the motherboard or CPU.
You can tell if your console has water damage if it starts glitching or freezing. The PS5 refusing to turn on is also a sign of water damage. However, the only real way to determine the problem is by taking it to a professional.
What to Do If Your PS5 Gets Wet
The first and most important step you need to take if your PS5 gets wet is to turn it off immediately and disconnect all wires and cables.
Once you’ve successfully done that, here are the next steps you need to follow:
- Hold the console upside down so that the water drips out. Try to get out as much water as possible, as even a few drops in the console can cause irreparable damage.
- Open up your PS5 and allow its components to air out. You don’t need to completely take apart the console — just as much is needed to dry out the components.
- Take a small microfiber cloth (on Amazon) or towel and soak up any visible puddles of water in the console. Make sure you don’t damage any parts or wires while dabbing up the water.
- Reassemble your PS5 once the water has dried off completely. This can take a couple of days or even longer, depending on the amount of water that entered the console.
- Plug your PS5 back in and check if it’s working properly. It’s also advisable to check for any unusual smells or sounds and to turn off the console immediately if you notice any.
- If you don’t notice any odd smells or sounds, reconnect the console to the TV and check if there are any changes in the output. Make sure you also check your games and controllers for any problems.
Is Water Damage Covered Under the PS5 Warranty?
Unfortunately, the PS5 warranty doesn’t cover water damage. In fact, the warranty doesn’t cover any damage caused by accident, abuse, negligence, misuse, or unreasonable use.
However, don’t give up hope just yet. If your PS5 doesn’t work even after you dry out the components, try sending it to a professional who specializes in consoles; they might be able to save your console.