Experts warn: never put your phone in the fridge
Cooling a phone in the fridge can cause condensation and thermal shock damage; instead, remove the case and switch the device off.
During hot summer days, many people look for quick ways to cool down an overheating smartphone, and one popular but dangerous suggestion is to place it in the refrigerator. Although social media promotes this method as an easy fix, the reality is quite different – it can lead to serious damage.
The main risk is condensation. When a warm phone is placed in a cold environment, the air inside the device cools down and moisture can form on sensitive electronic components. Even more condensation may occur when the phone is taken out of the fridge and exposed to warmer air. Even if the phone has water resistance, that often does not protect against moisture reaching the internal mechanisms directly.
Additionally, rapid temperature changes can cause thermal shock. This phenomenon can damage several components, for example, reduce battery life, put extra stress on the lithium battery, or even crack the screen.
To avoid such risks, experts suggest other ways to keep your phone cool. First, avoid demanding activities like video streaming or playing graphics-intensive games, as they generate extra heat. Enabling power saving mode can reduce background processes and therefore also overheating.
If your phone is already overheated, one immediate solution is to remove the case, as it often acts as an insulator. Although some cases with mesh backs may reduce heat retention, the best option is still to use the phone without a case. Thermal pouches, which protect the device from extreme temperatures, can also be helpful, as can portable cooling fans that attach via MagSafe.
Finally, the safest way to prevent overheating is to simply turn off the phone, put it away, and enjoy the sunny day.
