5 Tips for donating a computer – new york computer help green computer tip

Throwing out a computer is wrong.  Recycling a computer is better, but donating a computer is the best option to allow someone else to re-use the computer.  Plus, if the computer is still working, why not! 

You don’t want to just donate anything and everything of course.  That goes for you Commodore 64 and Atari fans!  As the weather gets warmer, it’s a good idea to clean out your place, and typically old computer and equipment are right there in the thick of it. 

Here are 5 important tips to remember when thinking about donating your computer equipment:

1. Is there a time stamp?  Yes, if the computer equipment is over 8 years old, it should be tagged as “recycle.”  Although some less technological schools might benefit from 9-year old working computers, the chances that the computer will reach year 10 are slim, and will cause more time and cost to replace the computer.
2. Computer doesn’t turn on.  Still donation-worthy?  Yes.  It is wise to know what the computer issue is or at least look for a free computer diagnostic from a computer shop to know.  If it’s a hard drive, RAM issue, or some other fixable solution, then, this is still able to be donated.  You don’t need to feel compelled to fix it yourself.  Just give the details to the lucky recipient and let them fix it if interested.
3. Don’t forget the accessories!  Just like a nice suit needs accessorizing (if that’s a word), so does a computer.  If it’s a desktop, remember to include the mouse, keyboard, and power plug.  A monitor would be great too if possible.
4. Wipe away your important data.  Be sure to clean your hard drive before donating to ensure no files are out in the wilderness.  A computer repair shop may do this for free or a nominal cost.
5. Who should you donate to?  Schools, and non-for-profit organizations are a no-brainer.  For a good local NYC donation computer company, you may enter all your equipment and even schedule a pickup from Computers with Causes.

If your computers don’t fall within the donation realm, then you should recycle your equipment.