How to know when you should buy new, or just repair the old.  

 

October 20th, 2022

By Darren Jackson

 

 

If your company has been around for a while, it has undoubtedly encountered this situation: critical hardware breaks down, and management is unsure whether to replace it or repair it.

The solution is straightforward if you partner with a seasoned vendor to manage your gear. The vendor’s personnel can determine the optimum solution for your company based on data and their understanding of your device.

Before selecting whether to fix a broken item or get a new one for devices not covered by an ongoing maintenance agreement, here are some things to take into account.

 

Perform a cost analysis

You should compare the resources required to get a new gadget delivered and installed with the time and money it might take to repair the current one.

You will need the following information in order to calculate a device’s overall value:

1. Amount paid at the time of purchase for the device
2. Whether the product is still covered by warranty
3. What the operating costs are
4. Whether the hardware might be salvageable.

 

 

Understand the typical lifespan of your device

 

Everyone is aware that equipment has a limited lifespan. The total period that a device is anticipated to last after being first used is known as its technical life. 

The device’s life also depends on how often you use it. Operational life is the duration of use of the device (expressed in hours or years of operation).

The total amount of time the equipment can be expected to be utilized before it needs to be discarded and replaced is the remaining life. Keep in mind that safety can be a concern with some older equipment. Employees shouldn’t be using outdated equipment that could malfunction and harm someone.

The technical life of your gadget can be determined by consulting your manufacturer’s warranty, and the operational time can be estimated by the staff members who use the item on a daily basis. Next, to receive the most accurate estimate of the remaining life of your individual gadgets, you might think it prudent to visit a professional technician certified in their repair.

The remaining life can also be determined by deducting the operational life from the technical life.

 

Determine the repair cost

 

 

The next step is to compare the cost of a remedy versus the cost of replacing the device, if you already know how much that will cost. For small devices, depot repair services can quote maintenance and parts cost for equipment that is both in and out of warranty.

Get a price from a service provider with experience fixing the same make and model of large devices that need on-site repair.

Particularly if the device, such as a receipt printer or payment processing device, has a direct impact on your sales funnel, the anticipated downtime that will occur while the equipment is being repaired should be taken into account in the cost.

 

Consider the environment

 

Manufacturers are making hardware more disposable on a regular basis. From the standpoint of global waste, this is alarming. Even while equipment may begin to appear worn-out on the outside over time, not every malfunction necessitates a total replacement.

Many commercial devices can readily be repaired using OEM parts. It may be better for the environment to prolong the life of your present device rather than adding more materials to a landfill if repairs can be made quickly, affordably, and with the same level of efficiency as before. Use this map to locate a technology recycling facility close to you if you do need to replace it to ensure that you do it in a secure and environmentally responsible manner.


Conclusion
TechMedic Computers specializes in custom built computers that are compatible with standard components and can be upgraded for years to come. We have reduced cost and waste for many of our business and home users by only replacing the parts that aren’t adequate for their needs. Let us know if you want a solution that lowers the total cost of ownership and reduces the amount of hardware thrown in the landfill.

 

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