Hot temperatures mean trouble for tech gadgets

SEATTLE—Heat can cause havoc for your electronic gadgets.

When temperatures rise, the risk of damaging smartphones, tablets and home entertainment systems increases dramatically.

While long-term damage is less likely—both Apple and Android devices are designed to power off automatically when the internal temperature rises—extended extreme heat can cause battery failure and memory loss.

Another hazard during a summer heatwave is water. Outdoor activities often include a trip to the lake, out on a boat, or lounging by a pool, and going swimming with your phone can lead to disappointing failure.

Most warranties do not cover damage caused to a mobile device by an underwater dunk. Small water sensors inside detect contact with liquids and will void coverage.

POWER DOWN

There are several steps you can take to protect your gadgets from both extreme heat and an unplanned encounter with water.

First, keep your device out of direct sunlight. Place your smartphone in a pocket, bag, or even under the beach blanket. Avoid leaving your phone on the dash of your car.

Consider powering down your personal electronics. Just like you need a break, so does your phone. Give it a rest to let it cool down.

To prevent your smartphone from being damaged if dropped in water, look for a waterproof case or treatment.

WATERPROOF IT

One popular case, by Otterbox-owned Lifeproof, is available for many Samsung and Apple phones. The case is water- and impact- resistant, and while most cases are meant only for temporary exposure to water, they do work and will likely save your device from liquid doom when used properly.

(Given manufacturers can't verify you've installed the case properly, or that it was on at the time your phone was dropped in water, they often won't guarantee your phone's safety. Be sure to follow enclosed instructions closely, including testing.)

Other cases from Drycase are waterproof pouches that fit a variety phone sizes. While not as form-fitting as a case designed specifically for your phone, these are great options if you change phones frequently or if you can't find a custom option.

For additional protection, companies like Liquipel will treat your device with a nano-thin coating that adds water protection to your smartphone. Send your approved tablet or smartphone in for treatment and you will receive a case-less protective layer against liquids.

One drawback of this solution, of course, is parting with your phone for the round trip to the treatment center. The company is working with retailers to provide on-site service with faster turnaround.

IF YOU DUNK IT, THEN...

If you're in the market for a new smartphone, consider a waterproof phone. Devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active (there are two other "S6" models, the "Active" is key here) come water resistant out of the box. The phone, available only from AT&T, is said to withstand being dunked for up to 30 minutes in water almost five feet deep.

The phone is more rugged than the standard, non-"Active" Galaxy S6 phones while maintaining superior camera quality and a brilliant display.

What about the phone dropped in water without protection?

If your phone goes for a swim without the proper case or treatment, take these steps:

• Don't panic
• Power off your device
• Take out the battery (if possible)
• Remove any visible water droplets

There is debate about whether or not leaving your phone in a bag of rice really works. Some users have reported success, while other experts say it can actually cause additional damage by whisking water to more sensitive areas inside the phone. The most important advice is to keep your phone powered off for as long as possible -- twelve hours or more is ideal.

Special bags called "Bheestie Bags" claim to be seven times more effective than a bowl of rice, but only work if you have one handy. The bags start at approximately $18 and are available at Amazon and other retailers.

Perhaps the best advice for keeping your gadgets safe as you beat the heat? Leave them at home.Your tech toys, like you, could likely use the break.

Follow KING 5 Technology Reporter Brian M. Westbrook on Twitter: @BrianWestbrook