New Guide Helps Consumers Get Deals on Refurbished Electronics

MASSPIRG

New Guide Helps Consumers Get Deals on Refurbished Electronics

This holiday season, you can pay even less than you would on Black Friday for electronics, if you buy them used and refurbished. A new guide entitled “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 better for the environment and cuts waste,” said Janet Domenitz, Executive Director of MASSPIRG. “It’s a win-win for the consumer in terms of price, and for the community in reducing waste.”

The guide, published at https://masspirg.org/feature/usp/fixed-for-the-holidays has tips that include:

• 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 options when people have the tools and knowledge to repair used products. MASSPIRG 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. State Rep. Claire Cronin and Sen. Michael Brady filed such legislation in the 2017-18 session.

“Repair cuts costs for consumers and cuts down on the electronics headed for the scrap heap,” added Domenitz. “Buying refurbished is a great way to support the right to repair, and put us one step closer on the path to zero waste.”