Repair your tech

Forked out a fortune on a phone and smashed the screen? Kids bashed the telly and it’s on the blink? Here’s how to fix your kit…

Here’s how – and where – to fix your kit

From coffee cups to last year’s laptop, there’s no escaping the fact we live in a throwaway society, and although prices have dropped, making it tempting to simply buy new if something breaks, you can try to repair your appliances instead.

My TV has broken, given how cheap they are, is it worth getting it fixed?

If your TV is more than eight years old, it is probably not worth repairing. Repairing an old-fashioned CRT television (boxy, not flatscreen) is hugely expensive these days. Modern sets can often be repaired – like a computer, parts can be swapped in and out – so call a local repair shop or the manufacturer for a quote. You may also be able to see what the fault is via the service/fault menu screen.

What if something breaks when it’s new?

You can ask the retailer for a repair or refund, but only within the first 30 days of purchase. If it breaks within the first six months, and the retailer can’t prove that it wasn’t faulty at the point of sale, you’re entitled to a free repair or replacement. If they refuse, contact Trading Standards. Faults that occur after six months of use, provided you’re still under warranty, can be handled by either the retailer or manufacturer.

How can I guarantee my stuff won’t break in the first place?

It’s impossible to know whether an appliance will last for decades or not, but investing in a high-quality item usually ensures it will give you many years of service. One great example is Dualit’s Classic toaster – it may be expensive, but it can be easily repaired, and the company actually sells replacement elements and timers, so your investment should last decades. For more investment buys, check out buymeonce.com.

I’ve smashed yet another phone screen, where should I get it fixed?

a cracked screen is not covered by a standard warranty, but lots of high street and online shops specialise in screen repairs (try Geek Squad for official repairs). Steer clear of unofficial thirdparty repair shops, however cheap, to avoid invalidating your warranty.

What about DIY repairs?

That depends whether you’re handy with a toolkit (or tiny screwdriver) and don’t mind possibly invalidating your warranty. You’ll find hundreds of Youtube videos and repair guides online, such as ifixit.com, which has step-by-step instructions for replacing everything from smartphone batteries to upgrading laptop memory.

Is gadget insurance worth it?

If you’re prone to losing things, it might be an idea. Cover for a bundle of gadgets (satnav, camera, headphones) costs from £40 a year, but more expensive items, like a laptop, cost £100-150. Check your home insurance as some policies include gadget cover. For mobile phones, expect to pay £70-150 per year, plus around £100 excess, but do check your bank account as many lenders offer phone insurance as a freebie.

BUY ANYTHING OVER £100 ON A CREDIT CARD.YOUR CARD COMPANY OFFERS FREE PURCHASE PROTECT ION IF THE ITEM IS FAULTY, THE COMPANY WON’T FIX IT,OR IT GOES BUST BEFORE DELIVERY