The weather is changing, and protecting IT assets during severe temperatures is critical. As we head into colder months, it’s important to remember that electronics like laptops, headphones, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and even earbuds can be affected in cold and warmer temperatures. During colder weather, there are multiple ways electronics can be damaged if not properly stored or protected, including condensation, battery damage, and freezing. In this blog post, we’ve highlighted tips for keeping electronics warm in freezing weather and what to do with frozen electronics.
- When the temperature fluctuates, condensation builds on surfaces like windowsills, glass, and inside potted plants. This also happens to electronics and can lead to corrosion if not addressed. LCD screens contain fluid that can freeze in extreme temperatures and cause devices to malfunction.
- Batteries can also be negatively affected by freezing temperatures. When a battery gets cold, it discharges more rapidly in a “rundown,” which will gradually lessen the charge potential. This will eventually affect the battery’s ability to charge at all. Many electronics are now made with Lithium Ion batteries, which cannot be charged below 32ºF (0ºC) without causing damage.
- Electronics such as motors, disk drives, and servo valves that rely on movement can also experience performance failure from the cold. Metal contracts as the temperature drops, making moving parts run under higher load stress.
It is essential to store IT assets properly to prevent damage to electronics during freezing weather. Practice caution when using devices after they have been exposed to severe weather. Waiting a few hours before powering on electronics in extreme temperatures is one way to help prevent moisture-related device failure. After bringing in electronics, condensation may form once they are inside where it’s warmer, and waiting before use helps allow any potential moisture to dry.
If your device has been sitting outside in freezing temperatures, exposing it to a sudden rise in temperature will create a layer of fog, which will later turn into a thin layer of condensation. Moisture of any kind can cause electrical shortages in circuitry. If the device is inside a box, leave it in the box or package and let it warm up before removing it. Or, give the device time to thaw before turning it on.
In the case of permanently damaged devices, ITAD facilities such as HOBI International are environmentally sound disposal methods for retired, unwanted, or damaged IT assets. HOBI has been in the IT and Mobile Asset Disposition industry for thirty years, focusing on maximizing economic return and mitigating potential environmental liability.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.