Recycling Your Old Computer

Submitted by HelpMeRick.com on December 30, 2005 - 5:55pm.

If you received or bought yourself a new computer during the holidays (or any time), many options are available for the use of your old computer. In addition to passing on a still useful machine, remember that in many cities throwing out old computers or monitors is illegal.

First and foremost BEFORE giving away your computer, make sure you purge it of any of your personal information. If your computer came with restore CD's, use them to restore the computer back to its original state. If you don't have restore CD's , you will have to uninstall programs manually and delete your email, financial data, etc on your own.

Probably the first option to consider for your old computer lies in your own circle of family and friends. Chances are pretty good that someone you know either doesn't have a computer at all or has an older one that you do. This makes a great use for your computer and makes you a family favorite at the same time.

Next, consider contacting a local church or charity who often have lists of families or individuals who could use a computer. Salvation Army, hospice organizations and similar entities make good choices.

Technical schools make good options also. Many high school and post-grad technical schools will either use the machines or take them apart for teaching purposes. Note that most public and private schools will not accept older computer technology for their use, but these technical schools will.

Some larger corporations will also take back your old computer (sometimes for a fee) and recycle your computer through commercial means. Dell, eBay, Office Depot, and others offer incentives or programs to do just this. Ask or check their web sites for more details.

Your old computer doesn't have to hit the land fill or collect dust in your garage. Take a moment to explore some of these options (or explore your own) and keep that machine churning. Many computers can function for more than 10 years and although not capable of performing tasks that new computers can, they make great word processors, spreadsheet crunchers and even basic game machines for someone who does not have a computer.