Are Drones Waterproof? A Must-Read

We are in an era of capturing, and one of the biggest achievements in this era is the drone. The reason why the drone is designed to capture aerial footage is that it is really beneficial in most fields. Anyways, when you want to utilize a drone, you have to consider some factors, especially the weather. Since there is a subtle electronic mechanism in a drone, you need to use it carefully. Thus, it is vital to check whether your drone is waterproof or not.  

When it is raining, can you use your drone? Are drones waterproof? Today, we will be talking about the possibility of using a drone in rainy conditions. 

Can Drones Fly in the Rain? 

If the drone can withstand exposure to water, it can fly in rain or snow without a problem. There are some waterproof drones that are specially designed for particular purposes, such as military service. 

If you use a regular drone, you are advised not to fly your drain in the rain and high humidity because the drones come with venting holes, so the electronic components might be exposed to moisture. Then, there will be short circuits inside the drone. Accordingly, flying a drone in the rain can be harmful. 

In addition, you should never try to use it underwater because they are designed for air traveling. If your drone falls into the water, its propellers and battery will be damaged. 

Waterproof drones can be flown in the rain because there is a special frame to protect the electronic parts of the drone. Moreover, there are some drones that can handle the level of moisture depending on their application. 

Related: How Fast Can Drones Fly?

Are Drones Waterproof? 

Some drones are waterproof, while others are not. Thus, if you hope to use a drone in the rain, you should choose one that is specifically designed to be waterproof. Unfortunately, almost every consumer drone is not waterproof. 

Waterproof drones can withstand water exposure. Therefore, they can be operated in wet conditions. You do not want to worry about its good quality. Waterproof drones are designed with special features and conditions, unlike regular drones.

For example, they come with sealed configurations so the water has no chance of entering and damaging the internal electronic parts. The major component of waterproof drones is their motors.

Those motors can keep functioning even though the drone is exposed to the water. Another key component is the sealed battery compartment. It also helps to protect the drone from any damage from water. 

Most waterproof drones have been designed to withstand rainy water, but they are not suitable for submerging in water. 

Difference Between Water-resistant and Waterproof Drones

If a drone is waterproof, it can handle heavy rain to some extent. Thus, waterproof drones are designed with a special frame that can seal the internal mechanism from excessive moisture. These drones are mostly used for special purposes like military service. 

On the other hand, some drones come with a water-resistant guarantee. It means that the drone can handle a little moisture. Indeed, all regular drones can be put in this category.

When a water-resistant drone comes into contact with moisture, it needs some after-care to work properly. You should try to dry the drone as soon as you can. Until you completely dry the drone, you should not fly it again because there will be some sudden electrical shortages. 

To determine whether your drone is waterproof or water-resistant, you need to go through the user manual or the manufacturer’s official website. 

Related: Can Drones Fly in Wet Conditions?

What Precautions Should I Take When Flying a Drone Near Water? 

You should follow these essential tips when flying a drone near a water body. 

Disable VPS

You should disable the Visual Positioning System (VPS) of your drone because the sensor will not work accurately when there is a reflective surface instead of a solid surface. So, disable that feature to take control, then keep a distance of at least 30 feet when you fly the drone. 

Plan Ahead

It would be better to plan your flight before flying the drone. Check whether your drone has flight path options, then chart a course. When you plan the flight, it is vital to avoid obstacles such as trees, rocks, etc. It would be better to avoid electromagnetic interference, too. 

Update the Home Point

Make sure to keep the ‘Home’ point of your drone up-to-date. Although there is a lack of signal over the water bodies, the drone can return to the location where you are. 

Flight Range

You are encouraged to enable maximum flight distance then you can constantly operate the drone at its range. When you enable this feature, the drone will stay in your sight. 

Related: How Far Can a Drone Fly From Controller?

Is DJI Drone Rainproof? 

The range of Matrice 200 and Agras 1 / 1S can be flown in rain or snow; they have been designed to be rain-proof. When the drone is flying in the rain, its tiny joints and seams can be opened to water intrusion.

Thus, the excess moisture has no chance to go inside. These models come with a rating of IP43, which means the drone can withstand water. However, it would be better not to constantly expose your DJI drone to such weather conditions. 

And other DJI models are not meant to be rain-proof, so their internal components can be damaged when moisture seeps through. 

Can I Fly My DJI in Light Rain? 

Yes, it is okay to fly your DJI drone in light rain if your model is Matrice 200 or Agras 1 / 1S . Other models are not waterproof, so you should not fly them close to water bodies and during the rain.

You are advised to check whether your DJI model has an IP43 rating before buying. That particular rating implies the drone’s ability to fly in rain. The IP rating is mentioned in the drone manual.