How To Get Rid Of Old Computers

Many people think that getting rid of old computers is like disposing stale food. Technology is more complicated than that. Very few people are aware of the fact that an average color CRT monitor contains 4 pounds of lead in it. The rest of the computer contains heavy metals that can cause kidney failure, liver damage, cancer and many different diseases that not only affect humans but wildlife as well. It also causes pollution and is associated with deaths of plants and animals, along with birth defects. Because of all these side effects, many firms offer proper computer recycling by encouraging consumers to turn in their old computers so that they can break it down into their various components and give a new lease of life to materials. In many places, it is illegal to throw computer parts or old computers into the trash. Moreover, since we bought the computer, it is our duty to recycle it properly or get rid of it in a way that doesn’t harm anyone or anything. By following a few tips given below, you will be able to get rid of old computers without harming the surroundings.

Tips On Getting Rid Of Old Computers

There are plenty of local organizations, friends or family members who will be dying to take your computer if you don’t have the time to sell it or recycle it. Find someone willing to pick up your junk. Donating your computer is a very noble idea because it will end up being a prized possession for someone who would otherwise not have been able to afford a shiny new one. You could also donate it to Good Will or the Salvation Army. They will either give it to people who are not privileged enough to buy a new one or sell it for a low price to those who can not afford a new one. You could also donate it to schools or colleges if it’s in proper working condition. There are many schools and colleges that do not have enough funds to buy new computers. So, this is the best way to make a small difference in a child’s or teen’s future education.
Companies like HP or Dell will take in your old computer when you buy one of their new ones.
Recycle your computer. All electronic recycling requires specialized equipment and highly trained staff and not all recycling companies are run in environment-friendly ways. Many firms, for their own benefit, get rid of old computers in a way which can lead to pollution and health problems for their employees, an e.g. being breaking a computer screen with a hammer to access the valuable metal inside. Many journalists have revealed the shocking truth of firms exporting old electronic goods to developing countries, only to be disposed off by untrained people, leading to extreme pollution, piles of waste, health problems, etc., in such places. So it is always better to do some research about the company before giving your computer for recycling.
You could also sell the old computer on websites like Ebay and Craigslist. These two sites are quite popular for buying and selling second hand goods. Many people consider old computers “vintage” material and also find a significant value in its current existence, whether it works or not. This is the easiest and quickest way to even make some money in the process. You could also put an ad in the local newspaper.
Before donating, recycling or trashing your computer, take your computer to a certified professional because some of the things in your computer, like your hard drive and memory can be re-used in your new computer. Some computer stores offer in-store credit as an alternative to recycling, disposing or selling your computer online. To get the best offer it is a good idea to do some research about all the privately owned computer retailer/services and also visit them.

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