How to Dispose of Computers

The fast-changing technology and frequent updates can make your computer outdated very soon. On an average, computer users replace their old computer within 40 months of its purchase. A key statistics in recycling suggests that only one out of every five disposed computers get recycled. This leads to high percentage of computers disposed of in ways not conducive to the environment.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Maintain a computer and its accessories storage space either in the basement of your home or other storage areas of your office.

2. Keep all the information about your computer inventory along with date of purchase, vendor information, model number, configuration and operating system installed handy.

3. Learn more about computer recycling programs. Surf the internet to locate such centers. You can look at the PEP National Directory which provides names of organizations located in your area where you can take your old or outdated computers.

4. Search for companies that recycle old computers. You will find plenty of information online. Companies often recycle computer peripherals such as monitors, motherboards, printers, scanners as part of their business.

5. Look out for lucrative buybacks and exchange schemes by computer retailers. You can drop your old computer and buy a new one with a discount or an instant rebate. Learn more on how you can dispose your old computer and also save money.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the computer is disposed of in a safe way. Contact the person to whom you have handed over your computer and confirm that the desired task is over.

[pat71896]

on 6/22/2009 This is good information. I do have the free software for earsing your hard drive at: http://www.ehow.com/how_5111708_dispose-old-pc.html

[RachelMoore]

on 12/15/2008 Good info. I also heard that the hard drive should be removed before disposing of the computer. Supposedly, personal info remains on the hard drive.