5 Alternatives to Throwing Away Your Old Slow Computer

If your computer has become slow and unusable, you can't throw it in a landfill. There are toxins in the metal that leach into the groundwater when you throw away old PCs or other ewaste, and because of that, you are legally banned from putting old computers in the rubbish bin. Here are five alternatives:

1. Take Apart and Resell

Even if the computer as a whole is old and clunky, you may be able to get some value out of its components. Consider taking the computer apart and listing the parts on a resale site. You may be able to sell the motherboard, RAM sticks, graphics cards and similar components. In some cases, you may even be able to get a bit of money for the screen or even the case.

2. Strip Out the Metal

Alternatively, you can take apart the computer and strip out all the metal. Some scrap metal dealers may be willing to buy it from you. You may want to check into prices first to see if it's worth your time.

3. Teach Your Kids How to Build a Computer

If you've never built a computer, you may be surprised at how easy the process is. Basically, everything slots into the motherboard, and you use a few cables to connect those elements to the power supply. Finally, you connect the screen and away you go.

An old computer can be a great way to teach kids about building a computer. For really little kids, you may just want to let them explore and take apart the computer. Don't be surprised if they end up breaking the parts.

With older kids, you may want to urge them to take it apart and put it back together. There are lots of Youtube videos to guide them along. Then, turn it on and see if it still works. Even if the computer is slow and outdated, they still get the pride of putting it together correctly.

4. Call an EWaste Recycling Company

After the kids are done playing, contact an ewaste recycling company. They can pick up the computer and ensure that the parts don't reach the landfill. They typically take apart the computer and recycle as much of the old metal as possible.

5. Get Crafty

If you love crafts, you may want to turn the motherboard or circuit boards in your computer into something new. You can make coasters, cufflinks, keychains and anything else you think of. Just remember, however, that these items are ewaste. When you are done with them, you need to recycle them.

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