The Refurbishing Process: Technical Refurbishment VS Cosmetic Refurbishment

When deciding on whether to purchase new, used, or refurbished medical equipment, it is always a smart play to do some research before making any drastic purchasing decisions.  Being well informed is crucial when it comes to making the right decisions for your facility, especially when it comes to purchasing refurbished equipment. For instance, does the selling company have a dedicated project management team? Do they offer a turn-key solution? Or, is the equipment pre-owned, used, or refurbished?  These terms are not synonymous. 

Used equipment is typically sold as is.  Pre-owned, however, typically means the equipment was purchased new, but does not indicate the condition the machine is currently in.  Refurbished, on the other hand, is a unit that has been repaired in some way.  These repairs can either be cosmetic or technical.

Below, you will find the characteristics that make up the Technical Refurbishing process and the Cosmetic Refurbishing process:

Technical Refurbishment

• Physical check, unit is cleaned off and batteries are replaced.
• All equipment parameters and conditions are functionally verified.
• All parts or components that are not performing properly are replaced and/or repaired.
• Unit reassembled and undergoes further testing and calibration. All accessories, peripherals and modules commonly used with the equipment are introduced so overall operation and effectiveness can be verified.
• Every replacement, testing and servicing are properly recorded under the equipment history log.
• Approval by the quality control department

Cosmetic Refurbishment

• Equipment is inspected for any wear and tear
• Units are primed, sanded and painted
• Use of AFC paint booth for perfect results
• The end product is completely blemish free

Please keep in mind that all pieces of equipment are refurbished according to the original manufacturers specifications. 

Buying refurbished equipment could prove to be the right fit for your organization.  The thousands of dollars saved on each purchase of refurbished equipment can be put back into the facility. Be sure to ask the company you are purchasing the refurbished equipment from if they offer service options including a “shared risk program" and if they will pay “fair market value” for your trade in.  These two options alone will help to further maximize your overall savings.