If you’ve decided that it’s time to recycle your old computer, you may be wondering where you can get rid of it. Unfortunately, refurbished computers aren’t considered “new” and aren’t able to be sold again. In addition, refurbished computers aren’t sold because they contain hazardous materials. On the other hand, cell phones need to be recycled as well. Read on to find out where to take your old computer.
Best places to recycle computers
There are several places in New York City to recycle computers, laptops, and other e-waste. While Best Buy will accept computer monitors for free, other locations may charge a fee for the service. If you’re not comfortable paying for recycling the monitor yourself, you can call the company and ask about their policy. There are also recycling centers run by NYC Sanitation in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and many of them accept computers and other e-waste.
Most manufacturers of computers have recycling programs. Typically, these are mail-in programs or partnerships with retailers. Some retailers will only accept certain brands, however. In addition, the Federal Trade Commission offers guidance on properly disposing of electronics for recycling. The organization’s website also includes information on securing personal data before sending them for recycling. However, even if you decide to send your electronics for recycling, always be sure to remove the personal information before sending them off. You can find other places with recycling services to know where you can take your computers or cellphones, like recycling services Fort Lauderdale FL.
You cannot sell refurbished computers as new.
Commercial establishments or individual consumers can use refurbished computers. Initially, these machines were aimed at schools and NGOs in the US and UK. Today, they are increasingly being purchased by companies for many reasons. The first and most obvious reason is cost. Many refurbished computers are cheaper because they come from dismantled machines. But you should always check the condition of your computer before purchasing it.
You cannot sell refurbished computers as brand new, so people must inspect them for defects before they are offered for sale. While they may have defective parts, they are rebuilt by electronics retailers. You may find a computer with an outdated processor or other parts replaced due to a manufacturing failure. Even if your computer is not perfect, a refurbished computer offers excellent value and may even be better than the new one!
Refurbished computers contain hazardous materials.
Refurbished computers are often cheaper, but they can still contain dangerous materials. Older models of computers often have lead and other hazardous materials. These substances are extracted from the earth and disposed of in a hazardous manner, which releases them into the air, water, and human beings. Refurbished computers contain fewer of these chemicals and are a great alternative to new ones. Therefore, buying a refurbished computer may be better than buying a new one.
According to the EPA, 75% of discarded computers contain harmful materials. The materials are leached from the circuit boards, causing water pollution and other problems. Moreover, disposed of computers often contain harmful substances, such as lead and mercury. These chemicals are toxic to humans and are not only harmful to the environment but also our health. Toxic substances may even affect our DNA. Therefore, it is crucial to recycle refurbished computers responsibly.
You must recycle cell phones.
If you’re unsure where to send your old cell phone, you might be surprised to find out that there are programs available. Recycling your cell phone is a great way to help the environment. Many cell phones contain valuable plastics, coppers, and metals that can be reused to make other devices. In addition to the phone, you can recycle the charging cords, circuit boards, and other components, too. Cell phones don’t have to be thrown away, though.
Most major computer manufacturers have recycling programs for electronics and other computer parts. Before you drop off your old computer, you should remove the battery and perform a factory reset. Also, remove the SIM card and any other storage devices from your cell phone. You should also recycle the accessories and batteries. Moreover, make sure to back up all your essential files. It’s even better to send your old cell phone to a recycling center for recycling.
You can donate refurbished electronics to developing countries.
Donating refurbished electronics is one way to help the developing world. This type of recycling is often done by nonprofits and businesses specializing in helping the developing world. The electronics are updated and resold to other people in need. These items are then shipped to developing countries to be used by the locals. Nonprofits such as Homes of Hope have a long-standing relationship with Arrow Electronics.
The charity World Computer Aid refurbishes used computers for less than PS40, plus shipping costs. Computer Aid International will also supply the recipient with IT training and technical support. To date, the organization has donated over 10,000 fully refurbished computers. It also offers practical support and advice about end-of-life recycling for the computers. The computers are then shipped to underdeveloped countries to be used by the locals.