Extreme heat is harmful to electronics, but what about the extreme cold? Some iPad users put their iPad in the freezer to cool it down when it gets hot. However, does this damage the iPad, and should you do it?
According to Apple, you should store iPads in temperatures between -20º and 45ºC (-4º to 113ºF). Unfortunately, the average freezer temperature is 0° F (-18° C) lower than Apple’s recommended storage temperature. Doing this activity shortens battery life causing your iPad to turn off.
Putting your iPad in the freezer for a short amount of time (when it becomes very hot) will not harm your iPad. Just be careful to not leave it there long, as this risks permanent damage to the battery.
If you want more information and are curious about what happens if you put your iPad in the fridge, please keep reading.
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Can You Put an iPad in the Freezer?
Temperature is the most significant factor to consider when using battery-powered devices. Most of them will warn you against using or leaving mobiles and iPads in excessively hot or cold climates.
Like other battery-powered devices, the iPad has limitations with its operating conditions. However, it can be operated safely when the temperature is between 32 degrees and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperature specifications indicate that you cannot put iPads in the freezer.
Why can’t an iPad sustain freezing temperatures? The iPad uses a lithium-polymer battery that stores plenty of energy in its small and light components. Inside each battery is a substance called liquid electrolytes. The ions flow through the electrolytes, which in turn deliver power to the energy to the iPad.
If you put your iPad in the freezer, the temperature drops instantly, making the electrolytes thicker. As a result, it slows down the chemical reaction, which affects the movement of ions and shuts down the device. Apple suggests that the best way to sustain cold weather is to turn off the gadget and find temperatures above zero.
Has your iPad slowed down recently? One of the best things to make your iPad as good as new is to replace the battery. See if a battery replacement is worth it in my helpful article.
What Happens if I Put My iPad in the Fridge?
Nothing will happen if your iPad is in the fridge. According to Apple, iPads should be stored where the temperature is between -20º and 45ºC (-4º to 113ºF). An average refrigerator temperature is at or below 40°F (4°C), which is within Apple’s recommended range.
However, I still don’t recommend placing your iPad in the fridge. There’s still a risk of accidental spillage of liquids or food falling onto the iPad’s screen. But in terms of temperature, a refrigerator is perfectly fine for the iPad.
However, it’s still important to understand the potential issues of leaving your iPad in a cold place.
Cold Weather Issues
- As soon as the temperature dips, the touch screen parts of your device start behaving erratically. It either shuts down entirely or takes way longer than usual to respond.
- Additionally, the battery starts draining more quickly than it usually does. This problem will continue happening even if your iPad is switched off.
- Putting the device at a temperature below its operational limit may damage its battery permanently. It won’t start charging even when the device is plugged in.
Condensation
Taking your iPad out of the freezer causes condensation, potentially leading to water damage. Water is more likely to be trapped inside your iPad when you move it from cold, frozen to warm, room temperature.
The moisture present in the iPad can cause irreparable damage to the device’s electrical components. If you have mistakenly put your iPad in the freezer, take it out immediately and allow some time for the device to reach room temperature before turning it on.
Electronic devices are designed with certain temperature limitations, and the Apple iPad is no exception. Never expose your device to a temperature lower than the operational limit, and it will add years to its battery life.
Is your iPad’s beautiful screen scratched or damaged? Even if the screen is fine, it’s important to understand if it’s worth replacing an iPad or buying a new one. To know the facts, please read more in my dedicated article.