what to do when spot gen 3 gets wet

2 min read 16-01-2025

Introduction:

So, your Spot Gen 3 robot dog took an unexpected swim? Don't panic! While Spot isn't waterproof, it's more resilient to water damage than you might think. This guide will walk you through the steps to take if your Spot Gen 3 gets wet, minimizing the risk of permanent damage. Quick action is key to preventing long-term problems.

Assessing the Damage:

First, carefully assess the extent of the water exposure. How wet is Spot? Was it submerged, or just splashed? Was the water clean or dirty (saltwater is particularly damaging)? Knowing this helps determine the necessary next steps.

Minor Wetness (Splashes or Light Rain):

If Spot only experienced light rain or a few splashes, it's likely fine. However, it's still a good idea to:

Wipe down the exterior: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe down the entire robot. Remove any visible water droplets.
Allow it to air dry: Place Spot in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat. Avoid using a hair dryer or other heat sources.

Significant Wetness (Submersion or Heavy Rain):

If Spot was submerged or exposed to heavy rain, more immediate action is required.

Immediately disconnect the power: Unplug Spot's power cord and remove the battery if possible (refer to your Spot user manual for instructions).
Do NOT attempt to turn it on: Trying to power on a wet robot can cause serious damage.
Remove any visible water: Gently wipe down any exterior water using a clean, dry cloth.
Do NOT use heat: Avoid using hair dryers, ovens, or other heat sources to dry Spot. This can damage internal components.

What NOT to Do:

Don't try to force-dry it: Avoid using heat or fans, as this could cause internal damage.
Don't submerge it again to "clean" it: This will only exacerbate the problem.
Don't use compressed air: This could damage internal components.
Don't use cleaning agents: Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaning agents.
Don't immediately power it back on: Wait at least 24-48 hours.

Next Steps:

Once you've taken the immediate steps, your next actions depend on the level of water exposure:

Minor Wetness: After 24 hours, carefully inspect Spot for any signs of damage or malfunction. If it seems fine, you can test it briefly.
Significant Wetness: Contact Boston Dynamics support immediately. They can guide you through further troubleshooting and, if necessary, arrange for repair. Water damage is often not covered under warranty, depending on the circumstances.

Prevention is Key:

To avoid future water damage incidents:

Keep Spot away from water: This seems obvious, but it’s the most effective method.
Use a protective cover: Consider using a weatherproof cover for storage, especially if it’s frequently outdoors.

Conclusion:

While Spot Gen 3 is surprisingly robust, it’s not waterproof. Prompt and appropriate action is crucial if it gets wet. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of permanent damage and ensure your Spot robot continues to perform optimally. Remember, contacting Boston Dynamics support is always the best option if you're unsure about how to proceed after significant water exposure. Always refer to the official user manual for detailed instructions and safety guidelines.