When it comes time to replace your current medical and laboratory equipment, there are three different options to consider:
One is to purchase new equipment through a manufacturer’s distributor. This is the costliest option, but it provides a warranty as well as technical support for setup, configuration, and troubleshooting.
Used and Refurbished Differences
The next two options do not include the manufacturer in most situations. Instead, the facilities manager may opt to purchase used or refurbished medical equipment.
Used equipment is sold as “used,” and it is sold without the used equipment dealer doing any upgrades or providing any service to the equipment. Of course, the dealer can provide information on the condition of the equipment as well as specifications on the system and the equipment operation.
The label of refurbished medical equipment means something different than used. Refurbished, which may also be called reconditioned equipment, is used equipment that has been tested and any damaged or worn parts or components have been replaced. In most cases, used and refurbished equipment dealers only offer warranties on refurbished equipment, and they are typically customized to meet the needs of the buyer.
Both used and refurbished medical equipment is a good option for any laboratory, research facility or medical health center. Understanding the specific need for the equipment, including if a warranty is required, is always a starting point in determining which of the two options is best.
It is important to shop using a respected and established online equipment dealer. These companies can provide information on their up-to-the-minute inventories and even work with customers to find specific types of refurbished or used medical equipment within their network of labs and healthcare settings.