How to Determine if Your Lab Equipment is Too Old and if it needs to be Replaced

Just like everything else, even laboratory equipment eventually becomes outdated and needs to be replaced. However, science lab equipment is admittedly very expensive, so you want to make sure that you are only replacing your equipment when it is time. But how do you know when that time has come and how can you determine that your lab equipment is too old? We are Longo Labs, and we can help you make that determination. As lab experts, our team plans and executes science lab renovations for businesses and schools who have asked themselves that very same question. Here are a few things to consider when making that determination.

The Age of the Lab Equipment

Of course, the best place to start is with the age of the equipment. Have there been changes to safety standards or industry best practices since your equipment was manufactured? Even if an old piece of equipment still works, it doesn’t mean that it is not worth upgrading and replacing it. You might still be better off buying new products for your lab.

The Status of the Equipment

Does your lab equipment work? This should be your next consideration. As we mentioned above, even if it works it might still be worth replacing, but if something doesn’t work properly or at all it is definitely too old and time to replace it. If the equipment is not functioning properly, then chances are that you have sunken money into it to have it serviced. While routine maintenance is helpful, unexpected maintenance for sudden issues can add up.

The Use of the Equipment

How often, if ever, is this piece of equipment used? If you have equipment that is obsolete and no longer in use, it is too old. Your laboratory should only contain pieces of equipment that you actively use for the sake of both money and space. The modern science classroom, for instance, is constantly evolving and frequently being rearranged, so having an idle piece of unused lab equipment is taking up space in the labs that students could use for their projects.

Contact the Manufacturer

It is worth calling into the manufacturer with the model number, generation number, and other specific equipment to inquire about replacement parts or repairs. The manufacturer will be able to make recommendations about whether or not you should decommission the equipment based on its age, status, and usage.

Be Cautious When Buying Used Lab Equipment

Getting replacement parts directly from the manufacturer is one thing, but buying a used piece of equipment poses risks. Cheaper does not mean better and might not be the safest option for you. While buying used products might be cheaper and save you money upfront, it can actually end up being more expensive in the long run if the used equipment requires frequent maintenance or stops working altogether in a short amount of time.

Ready for New Lab Equipment?

Hopefully these considerations will help you make a more informed decision about whether or not your lab equipment is too old. To summarize:

• Even working old equipment is worth replacing
• Consider the age, status, and usage of the lab equipment
• Buying used equipment is risky and not the safest choice

If your school or company is in need of new equipment or a full lab renovation, then Longo Labs is here to help! Please feel free to contact us. You can either send us a message or give us a call at (800) 635-6646 or (201) 825-1500. Let’s work together to find the best new products for your lab.