How to Make a Phone Refurbished
A refurbished telephone is a device previous owners have used and service personnel have reconditioned or at least thoroughly tested, according to PhoneScoop.com. Taking the time to refurbish a phone will enhance its value and make it easier to sell. You may also refurbish a telephone for personal use. The steps you must take before a telephone becomes fully refurbished will vary depending upon its current condition and whether it is corded, cordless, cellular or all-in-one.
Instructions
-
-
1
Test the phone thoroughly. Do not simply check for a dial tone; conduct a two-way conversation to test both the microphone and the speaker. Wait for an incoming phone call to test the ringer. Verify the buttons and switches work.
-
2
Conduct any repairs needed to restore the telephone to normal operation. You will need a screwdriver and possibly other tools. Remove any loose bits of plastic rattling around inside the phone.
-
-
3
Clean the phone. Telephone cleaning wipes are one option for cleaning the exterior; office supply stores sell these products, though they sometimes produce a strong chemical odor. The Chosunilbo newspaper recommends a less expensive alternative: clean the telephone with a wet cloth, using mostly water and a small amount of vinegar. A thorough cleaning is the most important step in giving the phone a refurbished appearance.
-
4
Replace the handset battery, if it has one. Some cordless phones use generic household rechargeable batteries, such as "AA," while others require special types. If you cannot find the appropriate battery at an electronics store, look for it online. Consider selling the phone with the previous battery as a backup if it still works.
-
5
Replace the handset cord if it's in poor condition or doesn't work. These cords can last for decades before needing replacement; they often only require cleaning and detangling to qualify as refurbished.
-
6
Consider replacing other parts of the phone that are in poor condition. Replace any cracked panels, bent antennas or damaged battery covers. If the phone contains an integrated answering machine with cassette tapes, replace the tapes with new, blank cassettes. Some tapes still contain private messages after you press the "Erase" button. If a plastic-covered slot on the phone holds a piece of paper with telephone numbers written on it, pull out the transparent plastic cover and replace the sheet of paper.
-
7
Conduct a final test of the phone. Inspect it for any remaining defects before declaring it fully refurbished.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
A phone's ringer on/off switch may be on the side, base or handset.
Consider replacing the entire handset if it's in much worse condition than the base.
Always disconnect a phone from power and telephone lines before taking it apart.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
