The Real ROI: Why Many Labs Choose Refurbished Over New
Setting up or expanding a laboratory whether clinical, histology, or research can come with significant costs. New equipment can quickly consume budgets and delay profitability. That’s why more facilities are recognizing the real ROI in refurbished lab equipment. With professional refurbishment, strong warranties, and dependable long-term performance, refurbished instruments offer exceptional value while maintaining the reliability labs depend on. This article breaks down why refurbished equipment has become the preferred choice for many modern labs and how your facility can achieve high-quality performance with minimal upfront costs.
Understanding Refurbished Lab Equipment
Refurbished laboratory instruments are previously owned systems that have been professionally restored to meet original manufacturer specifications. This is not the same as simply buying used equipment. Proper refurbishment typically includes:
With this process, refurbished equipment performs consistently and reliably while costing significantly less than new equipment.
Why Labs Are Shifting Toward Refurbished Equipment
1. Substantial Cost Savings
Refurbished equipment offers dramatic savings, often costing 30–70% less than new machinery. For many labs, that price difference is the key to staying within budget without sacrificing performance.
A new tissue processor may cost $70,000 — and some advanced models exceed $100,000. A refurbished processor, however, may cost only a fraction of that while still delivering high-quality results.
These savings free up funds for staffing, consumables, automation tools, or additional instruments to increase lab capacity.
2. Proven Reliability With Long Life Expectancy
High-quality laboratory equipment is engineered for long-term use. When refurbished properly, labs can expect 5 to 7 years of dependable operation from their equipment — sometimes even longer with routine maintenance.
This makes refurbished systems a strong long-term investment, particularly for labs focused on maximizing ROI while maintaining consistent performance.
3. Industry-Standard Warranty Protection
A common misconception is that refurbished equipment doesn’t come with strong warranties. In reality, reputable suppliers offer coverage equivalent to new equipment.
Many refurbished systems include:
This ensures labs have the same confidence and protection they would receive with brand-new purchases. Explore the benefits of Mercedes Scientific’s refurbished tissue processors warranty.
4. Lead Times Vary — Often Comparable to New Equipment
Refurbished equipment is not always available right away. Some high-demand models still require time for inspection and preparation, which can result in lead times that are similar to or sometimes even longer than ordering new equipment.
Timing depends on:
Even so, the result is equipment that has been professionally inspected, tested, calibrated, and prepared for reliable use.
5. Environmentally Sustainable Choice
Refurbished equipment supports sustainability efforts by:
As more institutions prioritize eco-friendly practices, refurbished equipment aligns well with these organizational values.
6. Greater Budget Flexibility and Expansion Options
Because refurbished systems cost significantly less, labs can stretch their budgets further and scale more strategically. Savings can support investments in:
Lower equipment costs mean greater overall flexibility.
Breaking Down the ROI: Refurbished vs. New
Refurbished equipment delivers ROI faster, thanks to lower capital investment combined with long service life.
|
Category |
New Equipment |
Refurbished Equipment |
|---|---|---|
|
Price |
Very high |
30–70% lower |
|
Performance |
High |
High |
|
Warranty |
1 year |
Same-as-new, 1 year |
|
Lead Times |
Predictable |
Comparable or slightly longer |
|
Life Expectancy |
7–10 years |
5–7 years |
|
ROI Timeline |
3–4 years |
1.5–2 years |
With similar performance and coverage, refurbished systems offer exceptional long-term financial value.
Addressing Common Misconceptions
“Refurbished equipment isn’t reliable.”
Proper refurbishment ensures equipment is thoroughly inspected, repaired, calibrated, tested, and evaluated before being offered for sale.
“There’s no warranty.”
High-quality refurbishers provide same-as-new 1-year warranties, including parts, travel, and labor.
“It won’t meet compliance needs.”
Refurbished systems that are calibrated and properly tested meet operational performance requirements for CLIA, CAP, and other regulatory environments.
“Service or parts are hard to find.”
Many refurbished instruments share parts with current models, making maintenance simple and accessible.
When Refurbished Makes the Most Sense
Refurbished equipment is ideal for:
It’s a strategic choice when performance matters — but overspending doesn’t.
What to Look for in a Refurbished Equipment Provider
Evaluate providers based on:
1. Technical Expertise
The provider should specialize in your type of equipment (histology, pathology, research, etc.).
2. Thorough Testing & Evaluation Processes
Ask for details on what was inspected, replaced, calibrated, tested, and evaluated.
3. Warranty Coverage
Look for 1-year parts, travel, and labor, equivalent to new equipment warranties.
4. Installation & Training Support
Proper setup and training reduce downtime and ensure smooth operation.
5. Transparent Pricing
Quotes should clearly outline what’s included and any optional services.
Financing & Deferred Lab Packages
Financing enhances the value of refurbished equipment even further. Many suppliers offer:
This gives labs the ability to get fully operational with minimal upfront costs, making refurbishment an even more attractive solution.
Environmental ROI
Refurbished lab equipment offers measurable environmental benefits, including:
This contributes to a more responsible, sustainable lab operation without sacrificing performance.
Refurbished lab equipment is not just a budget option — it’s a smart, reliable, and environmentally responsible investment. With 5–7 years of expected life, same-as-new 1-year warranty coverage, and excellent cost savings, refurbished instruments offer a superior ROI for labs of all sizes.
Whether you’re launching a new lab or upgrading an existing operation, refurbished equipment often delivers the best balance of performance, longevity, and affordability. Contact Mercedes Scientific Histology. Contact Mercedes Scientific to discuss refurbished lab equipment options and request a quote.