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It’s never a good feeling when you realize that your TV can’t be fixed. You may have tried everything, from troubleshooting the issue to calling in a professional repair service. But, unfortunately, your TV is beyond repair. Don’t despair; there are several things you can do with a broken TV that can’t be fixed. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the options available to you.
First, Check the Warranty
If your TV is still under warranty, check with the manufacturer to see if they can repair or replace it. However, keep in mind that physical damage, such as cracked screens or visible dents and scratches, may disqualify your device for a warranty claim.
Most companies offer a one-year warranty, so be sure to check the date you purchased your TV. If the manufacturer accepts your warranty claim and issues a new device, consider buying an extended warranty for your new TV. It will last up to three years and have more comprehensive coverage than the initial manufacturer warranty.
Sell It for Parts
If you have a broken TV, you can sell it for parts. This is an excellent option if your TV has valuable components that can be salvaged. You can dismantle the TV and sell the individual parts such as the power supply, circuit board, or screen. There are several online marketplaces where you can sell your TV parts, such as eBay or Craigslist. Be sure to price your parts competitively, as you’re likely to face stiff competition.
Sell Your Broken TV for Cash
Selling your broken TV can help cover the costs of buying a new one. However, it is not as easy as it used to be, especially if it is an old cathode-ray tube (CRT) TV. Recycling these TVs is also difficult, as many recycling centers do not accept them. However, there are still people who use them for parts or DIY projects. Here are some places where you can sell your old, broken TV:
Craigslist
Craigslist allows you to sell your TV locally and avoid delivery expenses. Check other ads for similar models to determine the price for your listing. Write an informative description of your TV, including the brand, model, type of screen, and any possible damage.
eBay
eBay has over 180 million prospective shoppers, making it a great platform to sell your broken TV. However, delivery costs can cut into your earnings, so consider opting for local pick-up. Unlike Amazon, it is free to sell used items on eBay, but you will have to pay a fee once your TV sells. Consider adding the fee to the initial asking price.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook’s platform for selling and buying used and new items is an easy way to find people near you who need a broken TV for parts or DIY projects.
Sell Your TV to TV Repair Shops for Spare Parts
TV repair shops usually buy broken TVs that they can refurbish and resell. However, they also need replacement parts and sometimes buy old TVs that cannot be fixed. Anything from a power board, capacitor, or t-con board to the power supply and inverter can be reused. To find a nearby TV repair shop, search online for “TV repair shop near me.” General electronics stores and pawn shops may also be interested in buying old TVs.
Donate It to a Charity
Another option is to donate your broken TV to a charity. Many charities accept broken electronics and use them for parts or recycle them responsibly. You can check with your local charities to see if they accept broken TVs. Some charities may also pick up the TV from your home, saving you the hassle of transporting it.
Recycle It
If you can’t sell your TV for parts or donate it, the best option is to recycle it. Recycling is the most environmentally friendly way to dispose of your broken TV. Many cities have e-waste recycling centers that accept broken TVs. You can also check with the manufacturer of your TV to see if they have a recycling program. Some retailers, such as Best Buy, also offer TV recycling programs.
Throwing an electronic appliance in the regular trash may be illegal in your location, so check local regulations. Here are three ways to recycle your old TV:
Your Local Landfill
Check if your local landfill accepts electronic waste. If it does, drop off your old TV and pay the necessary fee.
MRM Recycling
MRM Recycling offers recycling services for electronic devices, including TVs. Go to their website to find a nearby drop-off location.
Samsung Recycling Program
Samsung offers a recycling program for all Samsung-branded electronics, including TVs. Simply drop off your old TV at a Samsung collection center or ship it to them using a prepaid shipping label.
DIY Project Ideas With Broken TV
If you’re feeling creative and handy, you can repurpose your broken TV and turn it into something new and useful. Here are some DIY project ideas you can try with your old TV:
Make a Light Panel Out Of The Old LCD Screen
If your old TV has an LCD screen, you can turn it into a unique and stylish light panel. You can buy an LED light strip and attach it to the back of the screen, and then hang it on the wall. This can create a beautiful ambient light that can change color and set the mood in any room.
Make a Coffee Table
If you’re looking for a more practical use for your old TV, you can turn it into a coffee table. This project requires a bit more woodworking skills, but it can be a fun and rewarding project. You can add legs to the TV and a glass top to create a unique and functional piece of furniture.
Make an Interesting Fish Tank
If you have an old CRT TV, you can turn it into an interesting fish tank. This project requires some cutting and drilling, but the result can be very rewarding. You can also add LED lights to the inside of the TV to make it look even more impressive.
Conclusion
When your TV breaks beyond repair, it can be frustrating, but it doesn’t mean it’s useless. There are many things you can do with a broken TV that can’t be fixed and even make some money out of it. You can sell it for spare parts, recycle it, or turn it into a unique DIY project. The key is to find the option that works best for you and the environment. So don’t just throw your old TV in the trash bin; give it a new purpose and enjoy the satisfaction of repurposing old technology.