When computers and phones first came on the scene, they were treasured devices that people held onto for years. While we undoubtedly still care about our computers and smartphones greatly, we tend to hold onto them for less time. Often, people replace their laptops every four years, while phones can last as long as two!
There are a few reasons for this. Firstly, people often purchase their smartphones on contracts, which enable regular upgrades so you can keep pace with the most innovative technology and camera features. On top of this, companies need to constantly roll out newer devices in order to stay relevant.
But, if you’re planning to gift or unbox a new device this holiday season, make sure you think about what you will not do with your older devices. On the other hand, Easter is many things—a time of renewal, an emerging from the bleak of winter, why not try to have easter cookies delivery which everyone will surely enjoy!
However, don’t just throw out old electronic systems like 80% of people do. Here’s why.
Fines for Illegally Disposal Tech Equipment
If you dispose of your tech equipment incorrectly, you could be fined under state laws. 25 US states have legislation about correctly recycling electronics, and some even make it illegal.
It’s not that the government is trying to catch you out. You see, electronics often contain hazardous materials that are bad for the planet, like lead, mercury and nickel. So, be sure to correctly dispose of your electronics to keep the environment safe!
Data Security Risks
Just think of the amount of sensitive data on your phone and laptop: photos, passwords, confidential documents and much more are on your old equipment. If you throw your devices away without following the proper procedure, just about anyone could find your old hardware and steal the information they find.They could then use this to commit fraud, causing you a lot of hardship and financial concern.
Lost Monetary Gains
A lot of companies will pay you a little bit of money if you send them your old devices. By simply throwing your hardware in the trash, you’re missing out on a financial opportunity! After spending lots over the holidays, every little helps!
How to Dispose of Electronics Correctly This Holiday Season
There are many different ways to correctly dispose of electrical devices like phones, laptops, computers, tablets and printers. Here are the best practices to know about to make sure you’re staying in line with government regulations.
Drop Off Your Hardware At A Recycling Center or With Us
Companies exist that specialize in repurposing or correctly disposing of electronic equipment, depending on the state it’s in. You can either visit a specialist electronics recycling outlet, or give us a call – we can take your old electronics off your hands, so you haven’t got to worry about disposal or cybersecurity!
Donate Your Electronics To A Charity You Care About
If you’d like to spread some holiday cheer this year, why not give your electronics to a charity that can re-purpose them for people who are less fortunate than you? You’ll need to make sure your devices are in good working order for this one. A phone that won’t switch on won’t be of much use.
Some charities to consider include:
- Goodwill & Dell Reconnect Program
- World Computer Exchange
- American Cell Phone Drive
- Human-I-T
Consider An Electronics Buy-Back Initiative
For certain circumstances, you could sell your electronics back to an electronic retailer, such as Apple, Target or Amazon. These retailers will pay you, either via bank transfer or gift vouchers, for sending back your devices. The price you get will vary depending on the device’s model and the condition it’s in, but it’s an option well-worth checking out!
Wipe Your Device Before You Sell Your Phone Or Give It To Charity!
Before you give your device to a charity or sell it back to a retailer, you’ll want to make sure that all of your personal information is removed from the device for good. This means deleting all hard drive files, erasing your browser history and saved passwords, and deleting all the photos, apps and data saved on the device.
One of the easiest ways to do this is, where possible, to select the option in your device’s settings to reset to “factory conditions”. Before you do this, make sure you’ve downloaded or uploaded any information you want to keep to your new device.
Get Help With Recycling Your Old Technology!
If this all sounds a bit like a hassle, give us a call. Our tech experts can help you with all three of these options, either taking your old device directly off your hands or helping you restore to factory settings, so you can trade-in your device or give it to charity with confidence. We’re here for you at 732-747-0020 so contact us today.
