My device displays a water drop icon and will not charge

Last Update date : Dec 28. 2021

If there is water in your device’s USB port or moisture is detected that exceeds a set point, charging will not be supported. This is a safety measure to protect your phone from damage and corrosion. If your device displays a water drop icon which signifies moisture detection, you should power off your device and leave it to dry completely. If the icon does not go away and you continue to experience issues with charging, try clearing your USB cache.

Before you try the recommendations below, be sure to check if your device's software and related apps are updated to the latest version. To update your mobile device's software, follow these steps:

Step 1. Go to Settings > Software update.

Step 2. Tap on Download and install.

Step 3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Sudden Moisture detected error

Devices with a waterproof rating of IP68 and above (most of the Galaxy series) are equipped with a moisture detection sensor to prevent water damage to the device. If moisture is detected in the USB port, an error message will be displayed and charging will stop.

Moisture detected water drop error

In this case, unplug your device from the charger, then wipe with a dry cloth or gently shake your device (5-10 times) with the port facing downwards to release any excess moisture. Place your phone on a cloth in a well-ventilated area, or dry with a fan.

Dry device with a cloth or fan

Note:

  • Excessive force or shaking may cause damage to your phone. When shaking your device, be gentle.
  • You may get a Moisture detected error even if your phone did not come into contact with water. Exposure to environments with high humidity may also trigger a water drop icon. Try drying your device, and if your charging port is completely dry, restart your phone. Check that your device is placed directly in the center of the pad, without any obstructions in the way. The most common issue hindering wireless charging occurs due to improper placement on the charging pad. The wireless connection between the device and the charging pad may be interrupted, cutting off the power supply. Foldable devices such as the Galaxy Fold or Galaxy Z Flip should be closed and placed with the back side facing the charger. Please refer to the User Manual to check the charging contact point of your device model.

The water drop icon won’t go away even when dry

Does your device display the water drop icon even though it is completely dry and free of moisture? If you experience issues with charging even after drying your device, try clearing your USB cache. This should resolve your system error.

Filter and sort apps icon Filter and sort apps icon

Step 1. From Settings, navigate to Apps, then tap the Filter and sort icon.

enable Show system apps enable Show system apps

Step 2. Move the switch to the right to enable Show system apps, then tap OK.

USBSettings Storage USBSettings Storage

Step 3. Scroll to USBSettings and tap Storage.

USBSettings Clear cache USBSettings Clear cache

Step 4. Tap Clear cache located on the bottom right-hand corner of the screen to clear your USB cache.

Note: Device screenshots and menus may vary depending on the device model and software version.

How to use the Samsung Members app

If you are experiencing difficulties with your Samsung mobile, tablet, or wearables, you can send us a question in the Samsung Members app. Find out more about sending an error report.

Thank you for your feedback!