My device displays a water drop icon and will not charge

Why does my Samsung Galaxy show a water drop icon and not charge?

Discover how to fix Samsung Galaxy charging issues caused by moisture detection, including USB port cleaning, software updates, and proper drying techniques for devices like Galaxy S24, Galaxy Z Fold, and Galaxy A series.

If your Samsung Galaxy displays a water drop icon and refuses to charge, it means the device has detected moisture in the USB port or surrounding areas. This safety feature prevents potential damage from water or humidity. Follow these steps to resolve the issue and restore normal charging functionality.

1. Why does the water drop icon appear on my Samsung Galaxy?

Samsung devices with IP68 or higher waterproof ratings include a moisture detection sensor near the USB port. When this sensor detects excessive moisture, it triggers a safety protocol that disables charging to protect internal components from corrosion or short circuits.

- The water drop icon appears even if your phone wasn't directly exposed to water—high humidity or damp environments can activate the sensor.

- Charging stops automatically when moisture is detected, regardless of whether you're using a wired or wireless charger.

2. What should I do when the water drop icon appears?

1. Power off your device immediately to prevent further electrical exposure.
2. Unplug the charger and remove any connected cables.
3. Wipe the USB port and surrounding areas gently with a dry, lint-free cloth.
4. Shake the device gently 5–10 times with the charging port facing downward to help drain residual moisture.
5. Place the device on a dry cloth in a well-ventilated area or use a fan to speed up drying. Avoid direct heat sources like hairdryers or ovens.
6. Wait at least 24 hours before attempting to charge again.

3. Why does the water drop icon persist after drying?

Even after drying, the moisture sensor may remain triggered due to residual humidity or a software glitch. In such cases, follow these steps:

1. Ensure your device's software is up to date. Go to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install.
2. Clear the USB cache to reset the charging system. To do this:
1. Press and hold the Power button and select Power off.
2. Tap and hold the Volume Down button for 10 seconds until you see "Clear USB Cache."
3. Release the button and wait for the process to complete.

4. Supported Samsung Galaxy devices

This guidance applies to most Samsung Galaxy devices, including:

- Galaxy S24, S25, S26 series

- Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip series

- Galaxy A series (A15, A25, etc.)

5. Additional things to check

If the water drop icon persists or charging issues continue, consider these factors:

- Check for physical debris or lint in the USB port that could interfere with the sensor.

- Verify that your charging cable and adapter are functioning properly. Try a different certified Samsung charger.

- For foldable devices like the Galaxy Z Fold or Z Flip, ensure the device is fully closed and aligned correctly on the wireless charging pad.

Related Samsung support topics

• How to clean the USB port on Samsung Galaxy devices

• How to update software on Samsung Galaxy phones

• How to troubleshoot wireless charging issues on Samsung devices