10 replies
This may not relate in this forum section, but I wanted to say that my computer teacher said that we can make money repairing computers. Im about to get a cisco certifcation before christmas and at the end of this year I'm gonna try to get my A+. Im only 17 and I have no job. I wanted to some advice if I should repair computers. Lets say I do and I fry a part in the computer oh lets say the hdd and have no money to give the customer a new one. What should I do?
#computers
  • Profile picture of the author jaggyjay
    Actually, that's not a bad business. I remember actually wanting to get into that many years back. Now, on my free time, I actually find myself doing this for my friends and family - for free. LOL!

    Anyway, IMHO, I think it's just better to "clean out" computers (ie: vacuuming, dusting, virus/malware scanning and cleaning, deleting "temp" files, etc.). For one, you don't need any certification to do this. Another thing is that one rarely has to remove any parts from the computer to clean it.

    As far as protecting yourself in the event of "frying" a comptuer... well, don't offer any "guarantees" -- at least at first. And especially if you have no money to pay for any damage.

    Practice on your computer and those belonging to friends and family members - if they let you . After you become confident and know that frying a computer will be unlikely, then offer your services to others.

    As part of your service, offer a "service" guarantee. For example, guarantee the computer will run faster or that it will 100% free of "known" viruses/malware. Be sure to let your customers know that there are inherent risks involved in cleaning or repairing their computer and draft any guarantee to reflect that.

    I've cleaned/repaired enough computers to know that "stuff" happens. So, the first thing I tell people is that X, Y, and Z can wrong; but that I'll do my best. Of course, I don't charge my friends and family, but I still cover myself.

    Hope this gives you some insight.

    - Jay
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  • Profile picture of the author HairyPoppins
    Write up a contract before hand that states you're not responsible for any damages. It's a pretty typical practice with computer repair at least out here.

    I was in your boat not very long ago but things just couldn't get off the ground. People we're charging almost nothing and I just couldn't compete so I gave up.

    A good place to start is to advertise services where there's older people. A. they usually have money and b. they tend to almost be afraid to deal with technology. I would avoid advertising in things like the penny saver as people looking through those tend to not have very much money.

    It's not a bad thing to get into. A friend of mine makes a very comfortable living working out of his garage. It's good work if you can make it happen.
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  • Profile picture of the author caseycase
    Go for it man! What a great way to get your start at 17! As far as your concerns about something that breaks and whether you would have to replace it, I can't really speak to that, but I hope you do go for it anyway and find a way to make that work.
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  • Profile picture of the author HonestJ
    Originally Posted by flatbro94 View Post

    This may not relate in this forum section, but I wanted to say that my computer teacher said that we can make money repairing computers. Im about to get a cisco certifcation before christmas and at the end of this year I'm gonna try to get my A+. Im only 17 and I have no job. I wanted to some advice if I should repair computers. Lets say I do and I fry a part in the computer oh lets say the hdd and have no money to give the customer a new one. What should I do?
    Great idea- pursue it!
    There is nothing like providing a service everyone needs. To stay above the competition, see how much GeekSquad and other national chains charge and low-ball by 10-15%... and you will do well.
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    • Profile picture of the author Zack Sprague
      I wanna go for it but im iffy of whats gonna happen if i fry a compuyer part in the customers computer. And i dont have a car either to pick up the desktop. I can use my teachers stuff in the classroom which is huge we have everything for repairing computers. And i wont be able to purchase new parts if i fry theres.
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      Zack Sprague

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      • Profile picture of the author Rich Struck
        Originally Posted by flatbro94 View Post

        I wanna go for it but im iffy of whats gonna happen if i fry a compuyer part in the customers computer. And i dont have a car either to pick up the desktop. I can use my teachers stuff in the classroom which is huge we have everything for repairing computers. And i wont be able to purchase new parts if i fry theres.
        If you took your car in for an oil change and they broke the windshield, who do you think would pay for that? In my mind it is the same thing. If you said, "I'll add some memory but if I break something too bad" you won't get too many customers. Nobody is going to sign anything giving you permission to accidentally break stuff.

        I know you are chomping at the bit to make money but it sounds like you need some more experience first.

        It's been mentioned here but this is a very, very competitive business and you'll be competing against people who are willing to work for peanuts.

        Maybe you could find something to specialize in such as virus removal or gaming upgrades or something like that, you might do better.

        Good luck.
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        • Profile picture of the author tagiscom
          Maybe you could find something to specialize in such as virus removal or gaming upgrades or something like that, you might do better.
          Yeah, l tend to agree, l knew someone who went with the client to a computer shop and bought all the parts, (new) and then put them together, for the client.

          That way apart from a defective part, there is very little risk of frying anything and if you do, then it could be a few hundred down the drain, but as long as you know how to build one and have expert advise, and make a contract first, then it could be the best option.

          If you want to go this way, regardless, of opinions.

          But l should also point out with the economic downturn he is currently out of work.

          Maybe find someone online that can sweeten the pot by offering some product or service that comes with the computer?

          Shane
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  • Profile picture of the author Pauline Bennett
    Go for it! My husband and I moved over from UK to live on a Greek island and he has built up a good business doing the same thing for the expat community and now he has some Greek clients as word is spreading that he does a good job plus he does not overcharge, so my advice is do it!
    Good luck
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  • Profile picture of the author roneidaselva
    As a beginner, you need to work under computer repair professional. After getting one and half year of experience you can open your own business of computer repair.

    Dont go directly in repair field its very critical. Its good you have cisco certificate but work experience does matter.

    It has been 8 year since i am working in this field. So i advice you to go with some expert or professional if you want to build your career in this field.
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  • Profile picture of the author sheinjhon
    It is not a bad business.
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