The solution used to fix on the remote takes some time to dry. Forgetting the button positioning is very easy when you’re forced to wait before putting it back together. Fortunately, you will have a handy picture to make it easier! Putting back the screws can also be confusing, so make sure you have pictures of all of them and know where they belong.
Depending on the remote, you may need to remove the batteries to open the casing anyway.
Some remotes may not have any visible screws. These types of removes usually just need to be pried open with a dull blade. Be cautious when removing the screws. If the screwdriver slips, it could scratch up your remote.
Handle the remote carefully to avoid scratching it. Never attempt to open it with anything sharp.
Repair kits are available online and at some electronics stores. These repair kits work for other devices, including garage door openers, calculators, and even keyboards.
Use one of the brushes in your kit or get an old toothbrush. Rub away any noticeable debris, but spend extra time scrubbing any buttons that stick when you press them.
Test the buttons. If they stick or feel sticky, then spend more time scrubbing them. Look closely for any debris that could cause them to stop functioning.
Make sure the remote control components are out of the way so they don’t end up getting knocked over and lost. The parts have to be completely dry before going back into the remote or else the moisture could damage the circuitry.
The electrical parts are delicate, so apply rubbing alcohol sparingly by using something soft, such as a cotton ball.
Check the repair kit instructions before opening the included jar of paint. You may need to prepare or mix it in a certain way in order to use it.
Leave the keypad with the contacts face up so the paint doesn’t rub off on the towel.
If the remote still doesn’t work, it may be time to invest in a replacement. Take the old remote to a facility that recycles electronics.
Test all of the buttons before opening the remote. That way, you can repair them all at once instead of having to open the remote multiple times.
If your remote needs a deeper cleaning, take out the removable components and wash them with soap and water. Scrub the electronic components with rubbing alcohol.
If the foil is too big, it may get in the way of the other contacts or fail to fit inside the remote. You really can’t make the foil too small, however.
While you can squeeze the glue onto the contacts, you will usually end up using too much of it. It can lead to a mess that is difficult to clean up. If you’re having a hard time placing the foil on the contacts, use tweezers or another tool. Positioning the small squares by hand can be difficult.
Set the remote parts out on a towel with the contacts up in the air. This will help the glue dry and also prevent the foil from coming off the contacts.
If the buttons still aren’t working, you may need to replace the remote.
To make cleanup easier, take some time to prepare your work surface. Spread newspaper out under the remote to catch any corrosion. Work in an area with good ventilation. Turn on ventilation fans or open nearby doors and windows.
If you don’t see any signs of corrosion, you don’t have to worry about neutralizing anything and can focus on cleaning the electrical contacts inside the battery chamber. You can mix in a little baking soda to clear stubborn spots of corrosion.
Wipe the corrosion off onto a newspaper or sweep it into a garbage bag. Be careful to avoid spreading it throughout your home. If you need to, use a toothpick or pencil eraser to reach anything you can’t remove with a cotton swab or toothbrush.
Use a metal file to clean areas that are tough to reach. Another good tool to have around is a wire brush, which can also be used in place of the sandpaper. When you’re done, install new batteries and test the remote. Corroded terminals can’t properly receive power from batteries, so cleaning them can make the remote work again. If it still doesn’t work, you may need to buy a new one.
