The rules have changed for disposing of old unwanted electronics in North Carolina. All electronic items are now banned from landfills. Please note that this means that if you have old computers or even old radios that you want to dispose of, you can not just drop them in your trashcan at the curb. More information about what is now banned from the landfill, please check out this site.
There are several options for recycling your old tech if you do not just want to haul it off to a local “convenience disposal center.”
First and foremost you can find a charity to donate your old technology and electronics to. Just over in Durham, NC we have The Kramden Institute. They work with under privileged children who need technology to help them get a better education. There is also The United Way. They support people who are looking to better themselves and get better work. Also note, these are considered tax write offs because they are charitable donations to a non-profit. **Note we are not tax consultants and any advice given here is solely based on general information only. For exact write off amounts or any other tax concerns or questions regarding charitable donations, please contact your tax preparer or CPA.**
Also, you can try to take some of the metal components of the computers and go to a scrap metal recycling center. This is one we found locally (we have not done any business with them so we do not use this as an endorsement of their business.)
When you decide that it is time to recycle your old technology and electronics don’t forget to remove any data that may be on a harddrive or flasshdrive. Be cautious of your information. Ask a computer consultant if you aren’t sure how to protect yourself.
In our last post we talked about ways to buy used equipment that still has warranties etc. However, there are still good deals to be had if you want to use Craigslist, Ebay, or a local reseller. Some things to keep in mind if you choose to go this route are:
1) Plan out how the computer will be used beforehand and don’t be afraid to ask. As of this writing (July 2010), a good used 2-3 year old Windows laptop will average around $400.00 or less and a desktop will be cheaper. If you find a particular computer you like, see what a similar one is going for on Ebay to get an idea of the “street price.”
2) For Craigslist and Ebay, check the computer’s service tag (Dell) or serial number before you buy. Go to the manufacturer’s website and check for history on the computer. If you’re using Ebay, make sure the seller has a good rating (at least 99%) and go through their feedback. How easily do they handle returns, are previous customers satisfied, etc.
3) If you find one you’re interested in, look at the case on the computer. If the plastics or metal look discolored or scratched, or you have broken hinges, move on. Any external damage could mean more damage on the inside.
4) Lastly, has the drive been formatted and a fresh copy of Windows or OS X been installed and does the seller have a copy for you? From a business perspective, it’s better to start with a clean install and load only the software you have a licensed copy and need on the computer. Having a lot of extra software installed you don’t need and which may not be properly licensed or installed can cause problems later when you don’t have time for them.
If you have any doubts or concerns, contact a reputable computer consultant and they can help you walk through the process of purchasing used computer equipment or even checking out a computer you might be thinking about purchasing prior to buying it.
One thing on everyone’s mind today is saving money and one of the largest expenses for small businesses is their technology costs. As a technology company, we see the current costs and understand how quickly equipment can depreciate and become obsolete.
Buying used or refurbished is a great way to go but as a small business owner this can also be a problem. First, what has the laptop or desktop has been through? Second, is the price reasonable for a used computer? Lastly, can you be sure that this equipment isn’t stolen?
The easiest way to save money buying used or refurbished is by going to the manufacturer’s website and looking at their online outlet. Lenovo, Apple, Dell and most other vendors will have an online site for off lease, opened box, or refurbished equipment. The big advantage here is you get a computer from the manufacturer with a full warranty and clean system.
In another blog post we will be following up with the best practices to follow when purchasing a used laptop, desktop, etc. from either Craigslist or Ebay.
