FAQs

Yes, Eco-Tech can help with your crashing desktop computer by providing a professional diagnosis for just $20.00, which will determine if the problem is related to the storage device, memory, power supply, graphics card, or another component. If you require a replacement part, they also offer refurbished options at a lower price than new ones. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Eco-Tech accepts Apple devices for free recycling, but does not sell or repair Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, or iMacs, due to their long lifespan of 15 or more years and the specialized tools and knowledge required for upgrades, which makes them challenging for general repair services. Instead, Eco-Tech focuses primarily on non-Apple product sales and repairs.

Problems that result from: Upgrading the Operating System pre-installed to any other OS or installing incorrect, unverified system drivers resulting in OS system failure Usage such as running high-demand software such as 3D Rendering, or Video Games that the purchased computer system specifications does not support External causes such as tripping over power cables and causing power jack malfunctions or failures, accident, abuse, misuse, or problems with electrical power Servicing not authorized by Eco-Tech Failure to follow the product instructions or failure to perform preventive maintenance Problems caused by using accessories, parts, or components not supplied by Eco-Tech Products with missing or altered Service Tags or serial numbers Products for which Eco-Tech has not received payment or are being disputed Products damaged by misuse, abuse, riot, vandalism, theft, fire, flood, wind, lightning, freezing, power failure, power reduction, telephone failure or acts of Nature Cost of installation, removal or reinstallation of this product or any component of the product Purely cosmetic scratches, dents or other similar damages

Eco-Tech does not purchase computers nor offer trade-ins as it prioritizes sustainability by sourcing refurbished technology exclusively through donations and wholesalers. This approach helps minimize electronic waste, extends the lifespan of devices, and contributes to a circular economy, making a positive impact on the tech industry's environmental footprint.

Yes, Eco-Tech provides a convenient service where their Certified IT Tech will come to your location within K-W for a fee of $120, which covers the diagnosis, transportation of your device to their Waterloo facility for extensive repairs, and its return once the repairs are complete; however, they do not service Apple products. Please be aware that this fee is solely for the convenience of the service, and the actual repair costs are billed separately. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Eco-Tech has a 7-day return policy for all products, requiring that items be returned in their original condition. A full refund is provided, minus a restock fee per unit, to account for the cleaning and reconfiguration efforts needed for returned products. While monitors require less effort to prepare for resale compared to computers, they still undergo cleaning and testing. Restocking Fees per product: Laptop restock fee: $60 fee + any deemed damages deducted from refund amount. Desktop restock fee: $40 fee + any deemed damages deducted from refund amount. Gaming computer restock fee: $80 fee + any deemed damages deducted from refund amount. Monitor restock fee: $10 fee + any deemed damages deducted from refund amount.

Absolutely! Eco-Tech is equipped to assist with your laptop troubles by offering a professional diagnosis for just $20.00. This service will help identify if the issue lies with the battery, charger, or the laptop itself. Additionally, if you need a replacement charger, Eco-Tech has refurbished options available at a lower cost than new chargers. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

No. Eco-Tech specializes in computer repairs exclusively, recognizing that the cost of repairing other devices often outweighs their replacement value. While replacement parts may be inexpensive, the labor involved in repairs can escalate costs, making it economically unfeasible for consumers. By focusing strategically on computer repairs, Eco-Tech is able to streamline their services and offer cost-effective solutions to their clients.

Eco-Tech offers a 180 or 365-day limited hardware warranty on all refurbished computers, monitors, and accessories, ensuring that each device has undergone rigorous evaluation, testing, and thorough cleaning to meet factory specifications by our Certified IT specialists. The warranty specifically covers defects in materials and workmanship, safeguarding customers against part-related issues.

Yes, Eco-Tech provides no-cost recycling of your computers while preserving your files. They offer services to safely remove hard drives within your laptop or desktop for a nominal per drive rate for you to re-use, or so long as your drives are in good health, they can copy your important documents, photos, and apps onto another storage device, such as a portable drive, at competitive rates per drive, ensuring you maintain access to your data according to your preferences and budget. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Yes, Eco-Tech offers affordable laptop screen repair services for most laptop brands, excluding Apple with the total cost typically around $200 due to the $150 price of the screen itself. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Eco-Tech specializes in specific products listed on their website and does not offer individual components like computer cases, heat sinks, cooling fans, cables, or any items not explicitly mentioned in their Products page.

When you purchase a refurbished computer from Eco-Tech, you can be certain that you’re getting a quality computer for a great price based on current fair market value. To make sure you know exactly what it is that you’re buying our team individually grade each computer based on cosmetic appearance. Grade A - Slight Cosmetic Damage This may include very slight wear on keys, very slight marks or scratches on upper plastics or the chassis. Grade B - Cosmetic Damage May include scratches to the chassis or upper plastics, loose hinges and minor structural damage which have been repaired. Grade C - Noticeable Cosmetic Damage May include missing flaps or bezels. Any Missing parts will be stated on the product description.

Yes! Eco-Tech can significantly enhance your computer's performance at affordable rates. They specialize in adding more system memory and replacing old mechanical hard drives with faster SSDs or NVMe drives, while also cloning your original drive. These upgrades provide a cost-effective solution to improving your system's speed without the need for a full replacement. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Yes, Eco-Tech offers shredding services for x-ray films at a per pound rate but does not provide any monetary compensation for them, as the value from the contained silver halide is negligible unless processed in large quantities. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Yes! Eco-Tech Waterloo provides a dual-layer approach to data destruction, utilizing a Certified NSA-Approved device for on-site hard drive or SSD destruction, which guarantees both effective digital data eradication and audit capabilities for added security and traceability. Additionally, they offer an option for secondary destruction by shredding the destroyed drives at their facility, ensuring maximum confidentiality and ultimate destruction of sensitive information. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Once E-waste is delivered to Eco-Tech, it is promptly sorted and sent to an R2 Certified Processor for recycling. It's important to only bring in items you no longer need, as processed items become Eco-Tech's property and cannot be returned to their original owners.

Eco-Tech's secure facility stores destroyed devices under 24/7 surveillance until a minimum of 750+ pounds is reached for transport to a trusted R2 Certified Processor. The processor then further processes the broken or shredded hard drive material, meticulously separating valuable components such as circuit boards and various non-ferrous metals like aluminum and palladium, thereby maximizing economic return while reducing environmental and compliance risks.

No, delivered documents are not shredded immediately. Eco-Tech first prioritizes the destruction of pre-paid boxes, weighing incoming documents for cost calculation and securing them in a monitored security cage until they are destroyed later the same or following business day. Customers can monitor the secure storage process in real time through surveillance cameras and will receive a Certificate of Destruction via email after the documents are destroyed, confirming their completion. The company offers priority destruction with a supervised shredding service for those who need expedited service, allowing clients to oversee the quick and efficient completion of their shredding needs, all while ensuring the confidentiality and protection of their sensitive information.

Yes, Eco-Tech provides secure destruction of Intellectual Property (IP) materials through the use of security carts for safe transportation of sensitive items such as printed circuit boards, soft-metal, and plastic-based materials, along with GPS tracking to ensure client monitoring and the integrity of the chain of custody. Upon arrival at their facility, materials are weighed for cost calculation and processed by an industrial shredder to ensure complete destruction, making duplication impossible. The destroyed materials are then either recycled through R2 Certified Processors or disposed of, upholding environmentally responsible standards. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Yes, Eco-Tech offers ongoing shredding services with options including a compact 36" console that holds up to 3 banker's boxes or 100 pounds of documents, and a larger 95-gallon security cart, which can accommodate up to 14 boxes or 350 pounds. While their rates often match those of competitors, they prioritize safer and sustainable business practices by requiring a 24-month commitment and a security deposit to initiate these services. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Yes, Eco-Tech accepts various mixed wires and cables for recycling at no cost, including power, telephone, Cat 5/6 Ethernet, USB-C, HDMI, audio/visual cables, and extension cords. However, they do not offer compensation for these materials because substantial volumes of thousands of pounds, along with meticulous separation by grade, are required to generate meaningful commodity value that ensures sustainable operations.

Yes, Eco-Tech provides a straightforward per-pound rate for both hard and soft-cover books, magazines, and newspapers, providing clients with a versatile solution for securely destroying various paper products alongside their private documents. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Yes, Eco-Tech accepts printer toners and cartridges for recycling at a fee of $1.00 per toner or $0.50 per cartridge, when they are delivered alone without the printer they belong to, as these items are classified as hazardous waste and do not qualify for free recycling subsidies.

Eco-Tech employs advanced machinery, including a high-volume shredder and a robust vertical baler, to efficiently process and recycle shredded paper, creating mill-sized bales weighing over 1000+ pounds each. Once enough bales are accumulated, they are shipped directly to a paper mill for recycling, ensuring a streamlined and effective waste management process.

Eco-Tech's E-waste events now come with a service fee per event day, a necessity due to declining commodity values and rising logistics costs since 2020. Despite the fee, sponsoring these events remains an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to environmental sustainability in Waterloo Region. To sponsor an E-waste event, please contact us for a quote.

Eco-Tech offers two reliable data destruction services: one using a Certified NSA-approved crushing machine, and the other employing a powerful industrial shredder. This flexible approach allows customers to select the option that best aligns with their specific data destruction requirements and budget, ensuring secure and efficient disposal of sensitive information.

Eco-Tech primarily focuses on shredding paper documents and does not accept additional paper or cardboard for recycling, as these materials have low value and require extensive logistics, including heavy machinery and significant warehousing, to accumulate enough volume to be economically viable.

Eco-Tech offers a simple and transparent pricing model for shredding private paper documents, charging a per-pound rate regardless of whether the documents are loose, in bags, or in banker's boxes, ensuring secure and efficient destruction of sensitive materials for both residential and business clients, although surcharges will apply for any non-paper items found within the documents, such as CDs, e-waste, or garbage. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Eco-Tech offers a convenient, reliable recycling service for VHS/Beta tapes, CD/DVDs, vinyl records, and floppy disks, charging a per-pound rate with a minimum charge of $10.00 since these items are not classified as e-waste and do not receive recycling subsidies. The company partners with R2 Certified Processors to uphold strict recycling protocols, ensuring that these items are recycled responsibly and kept out of landfills.

Yes, Eco-Tech Waterloo provides professional, reliable pick-up services for e-waste on ground-level, within 25 feet of an exit for business locations in Waterloo Region, though surcharges apply for items further away or on different levels. Residential clients are encouraged to deliver e-waste for free recycling or to contact our friends at Junk Works Waterloo for affordable pick-up services in the Region. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Eco-Tech does not provide on-site document shredding at your location due to the logistical challenges and high costs associated with specialized shredding machinery. Instead, we focus on reliable off-site shredding services in the Waterloo region, offering a supervised shredding option for clients who wish to oversee the shredding process in real-time to ensure the confidentiality and protection of their sensitive information.

Eco-Tech's decision not to purchase e-waste from the public stems from the increasing handling costs and declining commodity values since 2020, rendering it economically unfeasible. The significant expenses associated with labor and machinery for processing large e-waste volumes pose a threat to sustainable recycling initiatives. Furthermore, to ensure its continued operation in the Waterloo Region and to avoid the fate of other local e-waste businesses that failed largely due to purchasing challenges, Eco-Tech has opted to focus on safer, more sustainable practices that align with its long-term viability.

Yes, Eco-Tech offers free recycling services for common batteries, including alkaline, lead-acid (including UPS and automotive), and lithium-ion/polymer batteries from laptops and smartphones, though no compensation is provided for these. For specialized batteries, such as Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP), lithium-polymer, and lithium-ion batteries found in E-bikes, drones, or robotics, a handling fee per pound is charged, as there are no subsidies to offset the recycling costs for these batteries. For batteries incurring recycling fees, please contact us for a quote.

Yes, Eco-Tech collaborates with R2 Certified Lamp Processors to accept incandescent, CFL bulbs, and fluorescent tubes for recycling, collecting and warehousing them in quantities until reaching hundreds of units while ensuring they are safeguarded from shattering and minimizing exposure to mercury. Due to the complexities of handling mercury and the associated logistics, a per-unit handling fee is charged. Conversely, LED bulbs can be recycled at no cost, providing a more environmentally friendly and economical option for customers. For service details, please contact us for a quote.

Yes! Eco-Tech provides affordable pick-up services for documents within 25 feet of the ground-level exit for home and business locations across the Waterloo Region, catering to various types of documents, whether loose or stored in banker boxes, bags, crates, or filing cabinets. Equipped with the necessary tools and equipment, they ensure secure, efficient handling of all materials, though additional fees may apply for those situated on upper or lower levels or exceeding the specified distance from the exit.

Yes, Eco-Tech can issue a basic Certificate of Recycling that includes item descriptions and their weights at no cost. For serialized Certificates, please contact us for further assistance.

Eco-Tech is dedicated to diverting E-waste and batteries for recycling while also accepting ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metals at no cost. However, they do not offer compensation for these metals due to their low market value and the high costs associated with handling them.

Eco-Tech focuses on E-waste and battery recycling and does not accept paints or oils due to their requirement for special handling; however, it can assist customers by directing them to resources like productcare.org, which helps locate nearby facilities for hazardous waste disposal and offers guidance on responsible waste management.

Yes, Eco-Tech accepts large flat screen and CRT TVs for free recycling, however there is a $5.00 handling fee per rear-projection or console television due to the absence of recycling subsidies for those types.

Eco-Tech provides a complimentary Certificate of Destruction following the secure disposal of documents, detailing how the documents were received—whether in boxes, bags, or loose—as well as their respective weights.

Eco-Tech offers a reliable solution for secure data destruction of your digital data stored on laptops, tablets, Apple/Android smartphones, flash drives, portable drives, SD, tape drives, VHS tapes, Floppy diskettes, CD/DVD discs, Apple MacBook's, iMacs, or other storage devices by employing powerful, industrial shredding machinery to permanently eliminate sensitive information from electronic devices. Customers can enhance their trust in our product destruction service by observing the shredding process in real-time through live camera feeds, ensuring a transparent and secure experience.