A computer doesn’t last forever. Even if your computer still technically works many years later, you may want to get rid of it anyways. Newer computers are faster, store far more data and are more capable of better running programs, games, and videos. However, after you have decided to upgrade, what should you do with your old computer parts? Instead of just chucking them in the trash, you can recycle them. Here are some tips that can show you how.

Selling Your Old Parts

One option you have for recycling is to actually sell your old parts on an aftermarket. eBay, for example, is an excellent choice. Craig’s List is another. There may also be some online and local independent electronics dealers you can investigate. You shouldn’t expect to receive much in exchange if the part in question has been used a good deal, but it is a form of recycling that involves some amount of compensation.

Self-Recycling

Alternatively, you could choose to self-recycle. This involves repurposing an old part for a different use for you or your family. For example, you could repurpose an old personal computer as a home server with a little work. With a few extra components, you could also transform an old monitor into an extra television.

Using an Electronics Recycling Service

You may simply want to dispose of your old computer parts entirely. Don’t just put them in the garbage or in a regular recycling container. Instead, bring them to a professional electronics recycling service that will actually break down the materials so they can be reused. Things that can be recycled by such a service include motherboards, processors, hard drives, disc drives, RAM, power supplies, monitors and more.

Removing Your Personal Data

However, before you hand over a computer, hard drive or other component that can store personal data, you should make sure to first wipe that data, so it does not get into the wrong hands. It could be used to steal your identity. Certain recyclers will offer to wipe the data for you. However, you can also wipe it yourself with downloadable programs that can overwrite data multiple times so it can never be accessed again.

Overall, recycling is the responsible thing to do. This is especially true for computer components and electronics that can harm the environment if not recycled properly. Consider your different options for unloading your computer parts in a responsible manner.