Repair or Replace Your Broken Tech? ~ High Tech House Calls

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Repair or Replace Your Broken Tech?

6:19 PM High Tech House Calls, Expert Computer Consulting

by Kim Komando http://tinyurl.com/o2gg63t

Your smartphone slides off a table and the screen cracks! Your laptop suddenly goes on the fritz! The only thing your HDTV displays is a blue screen! What do you do?

Various troubles occur in the lives of all gadgets from time to time, and it's usually when the gadget isn't under warranty. When that happens, the first thing you have to decide is whether to repair or replace it.

Unfortunately, it isn't always an easy decision to make. There are many factors you have to consider. And sometimes there are things you didn't consider that mean you end up spending more money than you thought you would.

Insider tip: While the gadget might not be in warranty anymore, you might still have an option. Some credit card companies offer extended warranty coverage if you bought the gadget on their card. Check with your card company to find out.

So, repair or replace: How do you decide?

Well, the first thing to find out is if the gadget is even repairable. Older gadgets might not just be out of warranty; replacement parts might be rare or unavailable.

If there's visible damage, such as a cracked smartphone screen, then start by contacting a reputable repair center for an estimate.

You'll want to get two or three repair estimates from different businesses, so you know you aren't being overcharged.

If the problem is less clear-cut, like a misbehaving computer or TV with a glitch, head online  to see if you can find other people having the same problem. It could be something you can fix yourself for little or nothing. For example, here are 5 common computer problems that most people can fix for free.

Once you determine that the gadget is repairable and you have a fair cost estimate, it's time to get down to business.

The 50 Percent Rule is what many techies live by. It says that if a repair will cost more than 50 percent of a new gadget's price tag, then it's time to buy a new one.

That sounds simple enough, but it doesn't always give you the whole picture.

One big consideration is the age of the item. If your computer is less than 3 years old, for example, then a repair is usually the way to go.

If it's more than 3 years old, you can expect problems to start popping up more frequently. Even if the repair will be less than 50 percent, I'd consider buy a new one. For computers older than 5 years, definitely buy a new one.

Even a budget computer will be faster and more secure than your old computer and should last you for 4 more years. Just remember to recycle your old computer properly.
Click here for my desktop and laptop buying guides.

For tablets, 2 years is about the limit for repairs, especially if you have a budget tablet. Beyond that, you're better off buying a newer model. See the best tablets on the market right now.

Smartphones and cellphones are trickier. Assuming you signed a two-year contract, the amount you paid for your phone isn't the phone's full price.

A $100 phone on contract might actually cost $400 or more. The higher price is the one you'll pay if you buy a new phone. Keep that in mind when you're doing your 50 percent calculation.

Also, remember that you'll be replacing the phone after two years anyway. If you don't, you're just wasting money. Click here to learn why.

For a TV, the age limit is around 3 to 4 years. If your TV is older than that, you can upgrade to a full 1080p, LED back-lighted, Internet-enabled model for less than you paid for your original. Learn more about buying a new HDTV.

The same principles apply to digital cameras, camcorders, e-readers and video game consoles. You can even use the same rules for home appliances like a refrigerator or washing machine.

If you do decide to replace your gadget, you might still be able to sell your old tech. Some people buy broken gadgets for parts or to fix on their own. Learn more about cashing in on old tech gear.

In some cases, you can even donate broken gadgets to local charities for a tax write-off. Click here to find legitimate charities in your area.

Buying a new gadget doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some simple ways to save.
    •    You might be wary of buying refurbished gadgets. Find out why they're a great way to save money.
    •    Want to bring down the price of a gadget? There might be a promo code for that. Learn how to find discounts for any online store.
    •    Just because you're buying new doesn't mean you have to buy the best. Find out why a new 802.11ac router isn't for everyone.

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