Making the decision between buying a Used or New Parts Washer involves careful consideration of various factors.
One way to keep costs low and operations productive is buying used equipment. Used parts washers are a fraction of the price of new and if constructed of stainless steel will generally be of comparable quality. Follow our guide to evaluate buying a used parts washer.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Parts Washers
- Assess your needs: Start by clearly defining your specific cleaning requirements. Consider factors such as the size, shape, and type of parts you need to clean, the volume of parts to be processed, soils removed and amount of waste water. Will you need filtration, how much is enough? Do you need gas or electric heat? How much HP will be required to effectively clean? Do you need a Cabinet style rotary table parts washer, Immersion or Dip-tank, Pass-Thru/Conveyor Parts Washer, Rotary Drum, or Basket. Aqueous based or solvent based parts washer?
- Research available options: Get quotes on new and used parts washers available in the market that meet your needs. Compare the specifications, features, and prices of different models. We suggest buying Stainless Steel when purchasing a used parts washer.
- Inspection of used parts washer: If considering a used parts washer, thoroughly inspect its condition in person. If you cannot do a physical inspection and no service records are available, review photographs and videos of the washer as closely as possible to assess its current condition. Check for signs of wear and tear, rust, leaks, and overall performance. Ask for maintenance records if available. Ask the seller why they're selling the parts washer. Often, equipment is sold following an upgrade or due to a company liquidation or asset recovery initiative. A reputable seller should be willing to provide this information.
- Availability of spare parts: Ensure that spare parts and components are readily available for both new and used parts washers. The availability of spare parts can impact the cost and downtime in case of repairs.
- Consider warranties and guarantees: New parts washers often come with manufacturer warranties, providing additional peace of mind. Some used equipment might also have remaining warranties or aftermarket guarantees.
- Technology and features: New parts washers may offer the latest technology, improved efficiency, and advanced features, while used equipment might have older specifications. Assess whether the latest features are essential for your cleaning needs or if older technology would suffice.
- Resale value: If applicable, consider the potential resale value of new and used parts washers. Some brands or models may retain value better than others, which can impact the total cost of ownership in the long run. Stainless will always retain a higher value than carbon steel.
- Weigh pros and cons: Make a list of the advantages and disadvantages of both new and used options based on your research and evaluation. Compare the benefits and drawbacks to determine which choice aligns best with your needs and budget.
By following this step-by-step guide and thoroughly assessing your specific cleaning requirements and financial considerations, you can make an informed decision on whether to buy a new or used parts washer that best suits your needs and budget.