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How to Clean Your HOVERAir AQUA After Saltwater: A Complete Guide

Simon
Updated

Overview

 

This guide explains how to properly clean your HOVERAir AQUA after flying in saltwater. Rinsing with fresh water after every saltwater flight protects internal moving parts and keeps AQUA ready for your next water adventure.

 

Many pilots underestimate saltwater damage: once seawater dries, sharp salt crystals form inside gimbal gaps and motor bearings. Even a single ocean session without prompt cleaning can lead to gimbal binding, grinding noise, or permanent motor corrosion weeks later. Freshwater cleaning immediately after use is the most important maintenance step to protect your AQUA.

 

Clean AQUA after every saltwater session. Rinse it with running fresh water when available, or use a bucket of clean fresh water when running water isn't accessible. It is important to clean AQUA before the saltwater dries.

 

As seawater evaporates, tiny sharp salt crystals build up inside the gimbal, motor shafts and gaps. These crystals scratch and jam moving parts over time. Cleaning AQUA while it is still wet helps prevent salt buildup.

Before You Go

Consider packing:
  • A bottle of clean fresh water
  • A soft microfiber cloth
This way you can begin cleaning AQUA on-site — before the saltwater dries — which is the most effective way to prevent salt buildup on the gimbal and motors.

Before Cleaning

 

Keep the battery installed and properly sealed.
 
AQUA's battery is waterproof only when correctly installed in the AQUA. Do not remove it while the AQUA is still wet.

How to Rinse AQUA

 

Option 1: Rinse with Running Fresh Water

If running fresh water is available, rinse the entire AQUA thoroughly for a few minutes.
While rinsing, gently move the gimbal and rotate the propellers to help fresh water reach areas where salt, sand, and other residue may collect. Never force either part.
 

Option 2: Use a Bucket of Fresh Water

If running fresh water isn't available, placing AQUA in a bucket or basin of clean fresh water is another good maintenance option.
 
Gently move the gimbal and rotate the propellers while the AQUA is in the water. This helps release residue around the moving parts and flush the motor areas.
 
Replace the water if it becomes visibly dirty.
 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Do NOT delay cleaning until you get home. Salt crystals can form in as little as 10–15 minutes in hot, windy coastal conditions. 

 

❌ Do NOT scrub dried salt deposits or force the gimbal. 

 

❌ Do NOT use high-pressure washers or strong water jets. 

 

❌ Do NOT add soap, detergent, rust remover or any household chemicals to the water. These will damage coatings and waterproof seals. 

 

❌ Do NOT remove or charge the battery before the entire unit is fully dry. Moisture inside the battery compartment causes contact corrosion and short circuit risk.

 
You can rinse or soak AQUA depending on what is available. Soaking is an alternative to running-water rinsing — it is not a required additional step.

What If the Saltwater Has Already Dried?

 

⚠️Do not scrub dried salt or force the gimbal.
 
Place AQUA in clean fresh water first to help dissolve the salt deposits. Gently move the gimbal and rotate the propellers, then rinse with fresh water when available.
 
⚠️If the gimbal remains stiff, makes an unusual noise, or does not move normally after cleaning and drying, stop using it and contact HOVERAir Support.

Clean the Lens Gently

 

If sand may be present, gently pat the lens with a clean microfiber cloth — do not rub it.
Do not use:
  • Paper towels
  • Clothing or sleeves
  • Rough or abrasive cloths
  • Household cleaning solutions applied directly to the lens

Let AQUA Dry Completely

 

1. Wipe away surface water with a clean microfiber cloth
 
2. Leave AQUA in a cool, well-ventilated place until it is completely dry
 
3. Do not use a hair dryer, hot air, or another heat source
 
Before removing or charging the battery, make sure the AQUA, battery compartment, connectors, and battery are completely dry.
 
Once dry, store AQUA in a cool, dry place. Before your next flight, check that the gimbal and propellers move freely.

When to Contact Support

 

If the gimbal remains stiff, makes an unusual noise, or does not move normally after cleaning and drying, stop using it and contact HOVERAir Support.

Quick Checklist

 

Step
Done?
Keep the battery installed
☐
Rinse with fresh water or soak in a bucket
☐
Gently move the gimbal and rotate the propellers
☐
Wipe dry and let AIR completely
☐
Check that the gimbal moves freely before next flight
☐

Official Tutorial Videos

 

Topic
Video
AQUA Rinsing Tutorial
AQUA Lens Care

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