A major problem for businesses of all sizes is the disposal of old desktop computers, printers, displays, servers, and more when it’s no longer needed.
While I’ll often encourage small businesses to make the most of existing equipment and improve performance by upgrading their machines rather than replacing them wherever possible, there does come a time when replacement is the most cost effective way to go. And since none of us like the idea of hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and other toxic substances leaking into the groundwater, recycling is often the best option.
But, before you call the truck to come haul it all away to be crushed, consider if what you have can still be used by others. For example, many organizations will accept charitable donations of older computer equipment to either reuse in schools – especially those without the budget to maintain the latest and greatest – or they’ll refurbish and sell the equipment used for others to get some extra life out of it. Samples of such organizations include The United Cerebral Palsy Association and Goodwill Industries. Others like the National Cristina Foundation receive so many donations that they’ve adjusted their lists for what they’ll take in, so please be sure to contact them to find out what they’re currently looking for and the best way to get your old computers into the hands of those who need them most.
Making a donation of your old computers depends, of course, on the condition of your hardware, but even devices that no longer turn on can sometimes be used for parts.
If donating is not an option, you might consider trading your old equipment in for new. Companies like Apple, Dell, HP, and others will either offer free recycling, or they’ll take your old computers and apply a credit toward new. Trade-in programs are often a great way to save a little extra off the bottom line when re-outfitting your company.
If your computers are of recent vintage, an option might be to resell them yourself. Some brands, like Apple, hold their value well and you might surprise yourself with how much you can get for them selling used. Some companies may offer to sell your equipment on consignment, so ask around to see what your options are.
Then, there’s recycling.
By recycling your equipment, you’ll keep those toxic chemicals we talked of out of our landfills and get them disposed of properly. The company I mentioned in my earlier post, Computer Recycling Center out of Crystal Lake, is a good choice and they’ll accept your drop-offs during normal business hours. There’s also Falcon Waste & Recycling and Elgin Recycling Inc to choose from. If you’d like a list of other recyclers in the area, you can’t go wrong checking with the McHenry County Defenders or the McHenry Country Conservation District. Both groups will be happy to point you in the right direction!
Finally, if you’re local and don’t have the time needed to handle the old computers and other electronic equipment yourself, give us a call and we’ll come out to help you find the best plan for disposing of your office’s eWaste.