Guide Helps You Shop Used Electronics and Have A Greener Holiday

Media Contacts
Abe Scarr

State Director, Illinois PIRG; Energy and Utilities Program Director, PIRG

With supply chain issues limiting options, Illinois PIRG’s updated holiday guide helps shop repaired or refurbished electronics

Illinois PIRG

This holiday season, you can avoid shipping delays and backorders from global supply shortages while paying even less than you would on Black Friday for electronics, if you buy them used and refurbished. “Fixed for the Holidays” helps consumers purchase used items with confidence — detailing what to buy, how to know if you are getting a good deal and where to shop. 

“Not only can you save 20 percent or more by shopping refurbished, buying used products is also better for the environment and cuts waste,” said Illinois PIRG Director Abe Scarr. “It’s a win-win for the person getting the electronics and his or her community.” 

Our guide, published at www.Illinoispirg.org/feature/usp/fixed-for-the-holidays has tips that include: 

  • Four tips on what makes a good refurbished gift.

  • The risks you might encounter in buying used products.

  • Where to shop for refurbished electronics.

  • How to know if you are getting a good price. 

  • How to get your money back if there are issues. 

Refurbished electronics are only available when people have the tools and knowledge to repair used products. Illinois PIRG supports “Right to Repair” reforms to require manufacturers to give consumers and third parties access to the parts and information necessary to fix our electronics. After recent, major repair concessions from Apple, Illinois PIRG and allies plan a renewed push to pass Right to Repair legislation, House Bill 3061 (Mussman), in the upcoming legislative session.

“Repair cuts costs for consumers and cuts down on the electronics headed for the scrap heap,” added Scarr. “Buying refurbished is a great way to support the right to repair.” 

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