How often do you repair and replace items in your house? Do you find it difficult to decide between the two? Did you ever think about the effect each has on the environment? Consider this, and it will be easier for you to choose.
Generally, whenever you make such a decision, you consider the costs incurred. If you opt for replacement, you will have to purchase a new item, but you will also have to get rid of the item you were using initially. You can also continue repairing your existing item; the costs will not be much now, but in the long run, they will add up and become quite excessive.
So what should you opt for? There are certain things that can help you decide when you give importance to the surroundings. Let’s take a look.
Energy
One way to decide between a repair and a replacement is to consider if the item requires energy or not. If it does, you will easily find a model that has higher efficiency ratings and then replacement will be a good choice. A survey estimates that energy efficient appliances can bring down your electric bills by 30%, and if you are not making use of these already, you should do so now.
Energy efficient products are specified with the Energy Star label. Visit their website and you will find more details of energy which a certain product consumes and its efficiency ratings. Doing so will help you analyze the amount of energy you will be able to consume.
Repair Manuals
The internet is filled with so much information, and you should make good use of this. Conduct a search and you will come across repair manuals for every item imaginable. If the repair process takes less than five steps, go for it because it will probably be more environmentally friendly. If you do choose to replace, transportation will cause pollution and packaging will also be required, which means more usage of paper and thus, trees.
Warranty
Almost every product has a warranty that can range between 12 months to a couple of years depending on the item. If you have a warranty, you will be covered for most of the repair charges, but do consider the impact which shipping can have on the environment, and accordingly decide.
Source: www.earth911.com
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