Computer recycling doesn’t always involve dismantling the device for parts. Some computers that show little to no cosmetic damage and are relatively new, are now being “refurbished” and put back on the market as “used” or rebuilt devices. Many have upgrades included that make them better and more functional than they were when they were new.
What is a “Refurbished Computer?”
A refurbished computer is one that cannot be sold as new. It may have had defective parts or it may have been rebuilt after it was discarded by a previous owner who had no further use for it. Computers that have been rebuilt cannot be sold as new even if they include brand new, straight from the manufacturer parts. If someone recycles a computer and upgrades all of the parts to a newer, more efficient operating system, it will still be considered as refurbished.
For some, the word refurbished means “of a lower quality”. While that may be true in some cases, it doesn’t always hold true to computers and other digital devices. When a refurbished computer is sold, it must be labeled as such. The retailer must also detail any work that was done to the device. Many retailers will offer the same satisfaction guarantee on a refurbished device because they were the ones who performed any upgrades or changes to the system.
Are They Worth the Money?
If the person or business you are buying the device from offers a money back guarantee and they have a positive reputation for selling high-quality products, then a refurbished computer is worth what you pay for it. In most cases, a re-purposed or refurbished computer costs about half of what a brand new computer would cost if you bought it from the manufacturer or a licensed retailer.
If you don’t want to invest the money in a new computer, a refurbished device will work just as well, depending on what you will be using it for. If you rely on your computer for all of your business’s needs, it’s a wise decision to buy new. If the computer is only used for pleasure, then a refurbished device will serve its purpose. You will still be able to do everything you can on a new computer, you just may not get the same performance or efficiency.
Where Do the Computers Come From?
Refurbished computers come from a variety of places. They may have had a defect or have been damaged in some way straight from the manufacturer, or they may have been taken to a computer recycling center to be dismantled. Sometimes, the computer may work fine, but the person wants to purchase a new one instead of going to the time and trouble to do a complete system upgrade on the old one.
In some cases, computers are bought from resale places that buy large lots of defective or damaged devices. If a retailer purchases lots that come from this type of sale, it’s important to find out what was done to the computer, if anything, and if it has a guarantee or warranty attached to it. Before buying a refurbished device, ask the retailer where it came from and what was done to it. This includes inquiring about upgrades or any changes that were made to the operating system or RAM.
How Do I Get Rid of My Old Computers?
If you have old computers or laptops that you want to get rid of, the safest place to take them is to your local computer recycling center. Some facilities can arrange for a pick up at your location if you are trying to unload several devices at once. If the devices are damaged in any way and cannot be repaired in a cost-effective manner, they will be dismantled and their parts recycled accordingly. If the devices are in good condition, they may be sold to a retailer who can refurbish and then resell them. With the new trends in computer recycling, old devices can be brought back to life so that they are as good or better than they were when they were new.
Buying a refurbished computer or laptop can save you a lot of money, especially if you are on a tight budget. It’s important to always make sure there is a warranty or guarantee attached. Try to get as much information on the device as possible before you buy it. This will help you make a sound purchase decision. With more and more computer retailers offering refurbished devices, you will be able to find one that meets your needs at an affordable price.
For more tips on buying a refurbished computer or electronics recycling services, reach out to the team from Stream Recycling.
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