Tips for Your Home > Living Room 

Electronics

We are surrounded by all kinds of electronic equipment that make our lives wonderful when they work and miserable when they don’t. When these devices break, our first instinct is to throw them away and buy bigger and better new ones. See below for other options.

Buy a top quality product. It may cost more up front, but it will last much longer and save you money in the long run. Talk with sales staff, read warranties, check Consumer Reports for the latest information, talk to friends who have purchased similar items, and research brands and models on the web to ensure you are getting the very best product for your investment.

Look for products labeled with the ENERGY STAR® logo. They will help you reduce energy use and save money on your utility bills.

Repair rather than replace. For a minimal investment, you may be able to fix whatever ails a formerly reliable piece of equipment.

Upgrade what you have, rather than buying new. Instead of purchasing a new computer, for example, consider increasing the memory of the old one, or adding accessories.

Recycle unwanted electronics through manufacturer and/or retailer take-back programs, private vendors, or electronic recycling events.  Rechargeable batteries inside unwanted electronics can be taken to NYC retailers who sell those products for recycling.

ALSO SEE new homes for old stuff for where to donate, buy, or sell used items; and appliances section in resources for links to additional information.

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