3 Signs You Need to Retire That Old Lab Instrument

1. It's not energy efficient

Power consumption technology has improved leaps and bounds over the past few decades. Electrically-powered devices across every industry, business and consumer, are more efficient than ever. It's good for the planet and saves you money, too.


And yet, you may be holding off on replacing that decades-old ultracentrifuge because "Well, it still spins, right?"


While true, that doesn't mean continuing to use it is in your best interests. After all, that old centrifuge likely consumes a lot more power than a modern unit that can generate the same g-force or meet the same speed. Consequently, operating the old centrifuge is much more expensive in the long run.


The same holds true for virtually all lab equipment. While costly upfront, it may be cheaper in the long run to simply bite the bullet and purchase a new system whose energy consumption is so much more optimized.


2. You can't find replacement parts

Inevitably, all of your equipment will have to be repaired at some point. However, if one of your instruments goes down and you can't find any replacement parts to repair it, then you've reached a point where you should consider buying a new model altogether. After all, if critical processes in your lab's workflow are halted because you're scouring eBay for a circuit board that hasn't been manufactured since 1986, then your organization is actively losing money. At this point, replacing the instrument is your best option.


3. It's in bad cosmetic condition

Over years of continual usage, lab equipment will accrue scuffs and stains. This wear is to be expected. However, sometimes accidents occur or maintenance is forgotten, leaving a unit with large dents, deep scratches, or heavy corrosion. While it may run fine, using an instrument that looks like it was drop-kicked into the Grand Canyon can still cause problems.


For one thing, it may negatively impact the professionalism of your lab. Environment plays a large role in shaping the culture of a company and the overall mood of the employees, so you'll want to invest time and effort in keeping your equipment clean and presentable.


Additionally, it's important to project the right image to those outside of your organization. For instance, let's say you're a start-up lab that is seeking investors. If your equipment looks poorly maintained, then any prospective investors that see it while touring your facility may weigh that against you when they make a decision of whether to invest in your company or not.

Bring New Life to Your Lab

Looking to replace old equipment without breaking the bank? Contact us at cs@newlifescientific.com or 567-221-0615 and we'll help you find what you need.