Unfortunately, your lab equipment won’t last forever. Eventually, one of your lab supplies might become damaged or outdated, and you’ll need to restock it. Before you make your next purchase, you should know what to consider before buying new lab equipment.
Can You Repair Your Previous Equipment?
Before you even start looking into shiny, new equipment, consider whether you can or want to repair your old lab equipment. If you’re replacing an old model, ask yourself if it can be scheduled for repairs. Check if it’s still under warranty with the manufacturer or not. You may want to weigh how much you’d need to spend on repairs versus the cost of a new product. For example, before investing in a new lab freezer because of temperature issues, make sure your settings are correct and you’re up to date on all maintenance. Sometimes the solution could be as simple as a quick repair.
Identify Your Lab Needs
When your lab equipment breaks down or you discover a need for a new piece of equipment, consider any other lab supplies you might need. It can save you time and shipping costs in the future from running low on equipment supplies or materials if you stock up early.
Calculate Expected Lab Usage
Once you have your equipment and supplies in mind, consider how often you will be using these products in the future. You may have a new model in mind now, but if it’s something that you don’t utilize very often in the lab, you could save money by purchasing a used or refurbished model. You want to consider all your options before your purchase so that you don’t end up wasting money and resources.
Find Your Vendor Options
Once you know what equipment you’re looking for, start considering your vendors and manufacturers. Are you looking for a specific product or brand? Are you looking for new or used equipment? Different vendors and manufacturers can cater to your business’s unique needs.
Don’t just jump into a new lab equipment purchase without the right preparation. Make sure to remember what to consider before buying new lab equipment the next time you’re ready to restock your lab supplies.
