How to take care of your HomePod

Apple’s HomePod is relatively durable. However, since, at $350, it ain’t inexpensive, you should take steps to take care of it. Here are some support and safety tips.

Do not use a HomePod near water or where it might be exposed to dripping or splashing. Keep the wireless speaker away from all sources of liquid, such as drinks, washbasins, bathtubs, shower stalls, swimming pools, spas, and so on. Do not place any object filled with liquid on top of it. Don’t expose a HomePod to moisture, dampness, or wet weather, such as rain, snow, or fog.

• Clean the speaker gently and only with a dry cloth.
• Don’t block any ventilation openings on the HomePod.
• Unplug it during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
• Don’t place a HomePod near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. Don’t place a naked flame such as a lighted candle or lit cigarette on or near the speaker.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where it exits from the HomePod.
• Only use attachments and accessories specified by Apple.
• Don’t attempt to repair or service HomePod yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when HomePod has been damaged in any way, such as when the power cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the HomePod, or when HomePod has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
• During operation, speaker vibration could cause the HomePod to move. Ensure that the speaker doesn’t fall from its mounting surface. Don’t hang the product by its power cord.
• The HomePod has no on/off switch. Also, it may appear to be off and disconnected from its power source when it’s actually still connected and in standby. To disconnect it from power, unplug the power cord. Make sure the main plug of the power cord is always easily accessible. When connecting or disconnecting it, always hold the plug by its sides. Don’t unplug by pulling the power cord. Keep fingers away from the metal part of the plug.

(This how-to is based on my experiences and info on Apple’s support pages — where the images sometimes come from.)