Using the "a" key activates Caps Lock
Using the "a" key activates Caps Lock
I possess a mechanical keyboard, specifically the Dareu A87 Swallow Cherry MX Brown keys purchased in September 2021. Last night I accidentally spilled water on it. Right away I removed the power source and shook the device to remove excess moisture, then took off the keycaps to dry them thoroughly before placing it back on the table for drying. As of now, the keyboard is not working properly; most keys are functional except for the "a" key and the Windows key. The "a" key activates both the caps lock and types "a," while the Windows key remains unresponsive. Should I visit an IT store to repair it (the warranty expired last month) or attempt a DIY fix at home?
They didn't give you enough time. You didn't take it apart to eliminate moisture, and even if you attempt to, the harm could already be irreversible.
It appears the keyboard has suffered water damage to its internal components. Given the limited drying time of just 24 hours, it’s unlikely electronics will recover on their own. As suggested, carefully take apart the keyboard as much as possible and position it on a shallow layer of dry rice inside a plastic container. Cover the container but avoid completely sealing it to prevent moisture buildup. Allow it to sit for at least 72 hours, or up to a week, before checking again.
Purchase isopropyl alcohol, take apart the keyboard, and clean all surfaces using a paper towel soaked in the liquid. Remaining moisture or particles might disrupt connections, allowing current to flow through traces when pressing A—or vice versa
In a mostly sealed environment, using rice or other better desiccants can help reduce humidity from evaporation, but only in cases of actual dripping or extremely humid conditions. I remember placing a waterlogged phone in a bag of rice overnight—it helped with moisture removal, though the starch made it quite sticky. This was from 2017 with an older phone that was easy to take apart. For better results, a hair dryer on medium heat and some patience would be more effective.