The Samsung Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra have been highly acclaimed as top-selling smartphones, offering an exceptional user experience. However, some users have recently encountered an issue known as the “moisture detected error in the USB port.” This error is designed to protect the device from potential damage caused by moisture or water ingress. Both models come with an IP68 rating, which means they are resistant to dust and can withstand being submerged in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. The moisture detection sensor is a crucial safety feature that prevents short-circuiting and protects the phone’s internal components. In this guide, we will explore various methods to fix the moisture detected error on Samsung Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra.
When your Samsung Note 20 or Note 20 Ultra detects moisture or foreign materials in the charging/USB port, it triggers an alert to prevent potential damage. Upon receiving this error message, it is essential to take immediate action to safeguard your device. If your phone’s charging port or the USB cable is wet, it can lead to a short-circuit, rendering the device non-functional or causing permanent damage. As a safety measure, your phone will display a warning message and prevent charging until the moisture issue is resolved. This notification is accompanied by a water drop icon in the status bar and a system notification from the Android operating system.
Quick Fixes for Moisture Detected Error
Before attempting any troubleshooting steps, it is crucial to ensure the safety of your device. Here are some initial steps you can take to resolve the moisture detected error on your Samsung Note 20 or Note 20 Ultra:
1. Disconnect the Cable and Inspect for Moisture
When the moisture detected error appears, the first action you should take is to disconnect the charging cable from your phone. Carefully check both the cable and the phone’s charging port for any signs of moisture or foreign materials. It is essential to ensure your hands are dry when handling the cable and phone to avoid any further complications.
2. Unplug the Charger and Allow Drying Time
If the moisture detected error persists even after disconnecting the cable, unplug the charger from the power source. Set aside both the charger and the phone in a dry and well-ventilated area. Allow them to air dry completely before attempting to charge your device again. It is crucial to ensure that both the charger and the phone are moisture-free before proceeding.
3. Clean the Charging Port and USB Cable
Dust, lint, or debris in the charging port or on the USB cable can trigger the moisture detected error. To eliminate this possibility, clean the charging port using a soft, dry cloth. Gently wipe the port to remove any visible particles. Similarly, inspect the USB cable connectors for any obstructions and clean them using a soft cloth or a cotton swab. This cleaning process can help ensure a proper connection and eliminate any false moisture detection.
4. Utilize a Hairdryer to Evaporate Moisture
If the moisture detected error persists, you can employ a hairdryer to evaporate any remaining moisture in the charging port. Set the hairdryer to a low or moderate heat setting and direct the airflow into the port. Keep the hairdryer at a safe distance to avoid overheating the device. Move the hairdryer around the charging port in a gentle sweeping motion for a few minutes. This method can effectively dry out any residual moisture that may be causing the error.
5. Utilize Rice or Silica Gel to Absorb Moisture
Rice and silica gel are known for their moisture-absorbing properties. If the moisture detected error persists, you can place your phone in a bag or container filled with dry rice or silica gel packets. Ensure that your device is fully submerged in the rice or surrounded by silica gel. Leave it for at least an hour to allow the absorbent material to draw out the moisture from the charging port. This method can be particularly helpful if your device has been exposed to high humidity or accidental contact with water.
6. Check for Corrosion and Clean with Isopropyl Alcohol
Corrosion or dirt accumulation on the charging contacts can also trigger the moisture detected error. Use a set of tweezers or a cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol to clean the charging contacts. Gently rub the contacts to remove any corrosion or debris that may be obstructing the charging process. This cleaning method can improve the connection between the charger and the device, eliminating any false moisture detection.
Advanced Troubleshooting Methods
If the quick fixes mentioned above do not resolve the moisture detected error on your Samsung Note 20 or Note 20 Ultra, you can try the following advanced troubleshooting methods:
7. Restart Your Device in Safe Mode
Sometimes, third-party apps can interfere with the charging process and trigger false moisture detection. Restart your device in Safe Mode to determine if a specific app is causing the issue. To enter Safe Mode, press and hold the Power button until the power menu appears. Then, press and hold the “Power off” option until the Safe Mode prompt appears. Select “Safe mode” to reboot your device in this mode. If the moisture detected error does not appear in Safe Mode, it indicates that a third-party app is causing the problem. Uninstall recently installed apps one by one to identify the culprit.
8. Disable Fast Charging
Disabling fast charging can help resolve the moisture detected error in some cases. To disable fast charging, navigate to the device settings and locate the battery or charging settings. Disable the fast charging option and connect your phone to the charger again. If the error no longer appears, you can re-enable fast charging after ensuring that the charging port is dry.
9. Wipe the Cache Partition
Clearing the cache partition can resolve various software-related issues, including the moisture detected error. To wipe the cache partition, turn off your device and enter the recovery mode by pressing and holding specific key combinations (varies by device model). Once in recovery mode, use the volume buttons to navigate to the “Wipe cache partition” option, and select it using the power button. This process clears temporary system files and can potentially resolve the moisture detected error.
10. Reset Device Settings
Resetting your device settings can help eliminate any configuration issues that may be causing the moisture detected error. Go to the device settings menu and locate the general management or reset options. Select the “Reset all settings” option to restore your device settings to their default state. It is important to note that this process will not delete your personal data or files but will reset settings related to connectivity, display, and other system preferences.
11. Perform a Factory Reset
If all other troubleshooting methods fail to resolve the moisture detected error, performing a factory reset can be considered as a last resort. This process will erase all data and settings on your device, returning it to its original factory state. Before proceeding with a factory reset, make sure to back up all important data to prevent data loss. To perform a factory reset, go to the device settings menu and select the reset options. Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the factory reset process.
12. Seek Professional Assistance
If none of the above methods resolve the moisture detected error on your Samsung Note 20 or Note 20 Ultra, it is recommended to seek professional assistance. Contact Samsung support or visit an authorized service center for further diagnosis and repair. There may be underlying hardware issues that require professional attention. The service center technicians have specialized tools and expertise to identify and fix any hardware-related problems.
Conclusion
The moisture detected error on Samsung Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra is a protective feature designed to safeguard your device from potential damage caused by moisture or water ingress. By following the troubleshooting methods outlined in this guide, you can effectively resolve the moisture detected error and ensure the proper functioning of your device. Remember to handle your device with care and avoid exposing it to excessive moisture or humid environments. If you encounter persistent issues, do not hesitate to seek professional assistance from Samsung support or an authorized service center.
Experiencing difficulties with your Device, check out our “How To” page on how to resolve some of these issues.
