1. How do you recycle computers?

RE·PC disassembles end-of-life computers into component parts that can be readily recycled.  Circuit boards for precious metals, cases and other miscellaneous for mixed metal and the salvaging of many parts and peripherals for reuse and resale. CRT's (monitors and televisions) are either refurbished or recycled through a facility the recycles the lead in the monitors at a glass to glass facility or smelter.

2. What items do you accept for recycling?

Almost any item related to computers or electronics.

3. Are there any items that can't be recycled?

Yes.  Many items are end-of-life comingled material (such as plastics) that have little or no remarketable value. In addition, RE·PC is limited  to certain size restrictions and the realities of market recycling (can it be reused or resold?)
.
4. Is there a recycling fee?

Yes, for some items and quantities. The current (as of January, 2004)rate structure is as follows:
Computer CRT's :  $10.00 each
Computers w/ Built-in Monitors: $10.00 each
Televisions up to 19":  $25.00 each
Televisions 20"and over:  $35.00 each 
TV Consoles and Projection TV's:  $50.00 each
CPU Boxes: $5.00 each
Printers: $5.00 each
Copiers: (small) $20.00 (large) $50.00  Line Printers:  $50.00
Battery Back-ups: $5.00 each
Peripherals and other misc:  No charge unless very large quantity or excessive weight or difficult to move.

5. Do you pick up equipment for recycling?
Yes, but not for small quantities.  Will pick up equipment from businesses
and pre-arranged loads of large size.

6. Is there a drop off area?

Yes, inside the store there is a location for recycling drop-off.

7. Can I get a recycling receipt?

Yes.

8. Is it tax deductible?

No.  RE·PC is not a non-profit organization.

9. How long has RE·PC been recycling?

Over 10 years, since 1994

10. Does RE·PC belong to any recycling organizations?

Yes.  RE·PC has been part of King County's Computer Recovery Project and is currently a memeber of the TakeItBack Network jointly sponsored by King and Snohomish Counties. In addition, RE·PC is a signer of the Electronics Recycler's Pledge of responsible recycling and is a member of the Washington State Recycling Association.

11. What about the data on my hard drive?

Although RE·PC destroys unusable drives and reformats those it resells, you are responsible for the data on your hard drive. Always delete with a utility that completely deletes your data.

12. Why is there a fee for recycling monitors?

The $10.00 fee we charge for monitor recycling pays for the processing of glass and electronics in the monitors. The monitor processor charges us a fee for the processing and we add a nominal charge to the price for handling plus tax (because in the State of Washington it's a taxable service). The monitor recycling fee total is $10.88 ($10.00 fee, $0.88 tax)

13. Why can't I just throw it away?   Can't I just take it to Goodwill?

Many charities have stopped accepting computers and monitors because of the liability factors and cost of disposal.  Further, just dumping your monitor is an irresponsible act and an affront to the environment considering the toxicity of lead and its effects.

15. Are there any local charities or non-profits that will take my donation?
      Do you have their number?

Go to this link: http://store.yahoo.com/repc/recyclinginfo.html

16. Do you make money on recycling the metal?

No.  Actually we have to pay to have it hauled to the recycler.

17. Why don't you pay me for my old _____ that I paid $$$$$$ in 19__?

Because in the rapidly changing and depreciating market of computers, it probably isn't worth much.

18. What toxic materials are in computers and monitors?

Go to www.svtc.org (Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition) and all the information regarding the toxicity of electronics will be found.

19. What percentage of computers are recycled in the U.S.?

Latest estimates are approx. 30%.  In addition, huge amounts are sent offshore.

20. What are the local laws on disposal of computer equipment?

Currently there are ordinances in King County and Snohomish County that prohibit CRT and consumer electronics dumping.

23. What are RE·PC's views on recycling?

RE·PC believes in reuse and market recycling and is committed to helping realize responsible end-of-life disposal of all electronic devices.

25.  I have a friend in __.  Can you tell me where he can
        recycle equipment in that area?

Yes. Follow this link for that information:  http://www.repc.com/linkspage.html