Apple Watch Series 6: What to Do When It Dies After Swimming

The Apple Watch Series 6 is known for its impressive water resistance, rated up to 50 meters according to the ISO standard 22810:2010. This makes it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities. However, users occasionally report that their Apple Watch 6 stops working after swimming, which can be distressing and confusing. This article explores why this might happen, offers troubleshooting steps, and provides tips for ensuring your Apple Watch remains functional after exposure to water.

Understanding Water Resistance Ratings

Apple’s water resistance rating for the Apple Watch Series 6 is based on a standard that ensures the watch can withstand exposure to water during specific activities. The watch's rating of 50 meters means it should be fine for shallow water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. The water resistance is achieved through a combination of gaskets, seals, and a tightly fitted design that helps prevent water ingress.

Important to note: While the Apple Watch Series 6 is water-resistant, it is not waterproof. Water resistance can degrade over time, especially with wear and tear. Factors like exposure to soaps, shampoos, lotions, and other chemicals can weaken the watch’s water resistance capabilities.

Common Issues Leading to Apple Watch Failure After Swimming

1. Water Resistance Degradation: Over time, the seals that provide water resistance can wear out or degrade. This can make your watch more susceptible to water ingress. Regular exposure to water, particularly in chlorinated pools or salty seawater, can accelerate this process.

2. Excessive Water Exposure: While the Apple Watch 6 is designed to handle everyday water exposure, prolonged or excessive exposure to water beyond its rating (e.g., deep-sea diving or exposure to high-pressure water) can lead to issues.

3. Malfunction Due to Foreign Substances: Chemicals from pool chlorine, seawater, or even soap and lotions can damage the watch’s internal components or weaken the water resistance. This can lead to malfunction or complete failure of the watch.

4. Physical Damage: Dropping the watch or other forms of impact can damage its water resistance capabilities. Even minor cracks or impacts can compromise the seals and lead to water ingress.

Troubleshooting Steps for a Non-Responsive Apple Watch

1. Check for Physical Damage: Inspect the watch for any visible signs of damage. If you notice any cracks or loose parts, it may indicate that water has entered the device.

2. Perform a Hard Reset: Try performing a hard reset by pressing and holding both the side button and the Digital Crown until the Apple logo appears. This can sometimes resolve minor issues.

3. Dry the Watch: If the watch got wet, gently dry it with a clean, soft cloth. Avoid using any heat sources or placing the watch in direct sunlight, as this can cause further damage.

4. Check for Updates: Ensure that your Apple Watch is running the latest version of watchOS. Sometimes software issues can cause operational problems, and updates may fix these bugs.

5. Visit Apple Support: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it's best to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for professional assistance. They can perform diagnostics and determine whether the watch needs repair or replacement.

Preventive Measures for Future Use

1. Regularly Inspect Seals and Gaskets: Ensure that the seals and gaskets are intact and functioning properly. If you notice any signs of wear, consider having the watch checked by a professional.

2. Avoid Exposing the Watch to Harsh Chemicals: Rinse the watch with fresh water after exposure to pool chlorine, seawater, or other chemicals. This helps remove any residue that could damage the watch over time.

3. Remove the Watch Before High-Pressure Activities: Avoid wearing the watch during high-pressure water activities or deep-sea diving. Stick to swimming and shallow water activities within the watch’s rated limits.

4. Regular Maintenance: Consider having the watch serviced periodically to ensure that the water resistance is maintained and the device is functioning properly.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 6 is a robust and reliable device designed to handle water exposure during regular use. However, like any electronic device, it has its limitations and can suffer from issues if not properly maintained or if exposed to conditions beyond its design specifications. By understanding the limitations of water resistance and following preventive measures, you can help ensure that your Apple Watch remains in good working condition and continues to serve you well during your aquatic adventures.