Can You Get Money for a Broken TV?

A broken television can seem like a complete loss, leaving you wondering if any value can be recovered. While the initial reaction might be to discard it, various avenues exist to potentially recoup some of your original investment or offset the cost of a new device.

Assessing the Damage and Potential Value

Before pursuing recovery options, assess the damage. Distinguish between a cracked screen and other malfunctions, as screen damage is often uneconomical to repair.

A cracked or smashed screen typically costs between $200 and $1,000 to fix, or even up to $2,000 or more for panel replacement, which can often exceed the cost of a new comparable TV.

Locate the TV’s model and serial numbers; this information is crucial for repair quotes, part identification, and insurance claims. These numbers are usually found on a label on the back panel of the TV or within the settings menu.

Comparing the estimated repair expense to the cost of a new television with similar features helps determine if repair is financially sound. Checking online marketplaces for the value of working models can also provide a benchmark for remaining value.

Exploring Repair Services

When considering professional repair, identify reputable service providers. Searching for local electronics repair shops, authorized service centers for the TV’s brand, or established online repair resources can provide viable options.

Many professional TV repair technicians charge between $60 and $150 per hour or a flat rate ranging from $60 to $300, depending on the repair’s complexity.

Obtain detailed diagnostic assessments and repair quotes. Some repair shops may charge a diagnostic fee, typically ranging from $50 to $150, which might be waived if you proceed with the repair service.

Inquire about the estimated repair time and any warranty provided. Compare the repair quote with the cost of a new television of similar features and the TV’s pre-damage value to determine if professional repair is sensible.

Selling for Parts or Scrap

Even extensively damaged televisions can hold residual value through components or as scrap. Common parts that often retain value include the main board, power supply board, and T-con board, especially for popular TV models.

The stand and remote control can also be sold separately if they are in good condition.

Online marketplaces such as eBay or specialized electronics parts forums are common platforms for selling individual components. Local electronics repair shops might also be interested in purchasing used parts for their own repairs.

Alternatively, the entire broken television can be listed “as-is” on local classifieds, like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, for individuals seeking parts or planning a repair project. While some electronics recycling centers or scrap metal yards may offer a minimal amount for raw materials, the financial return for scrapping an entire TV is often negligible.

Insurance and Warranty Coverage

Explore insurance and warranty coverage to recover value from a broken television. Extended warranties, often purchased at the time of sale from retailers or manufacturers, can provide coverage beyond the standard manufacturer’s warranty, which typically lasts 90 days to one year.

These plans may cover accidental damage, mechanical or electrical breakdowns, and power surges, depending on the terms.

Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies may cover damage to personal property, including televisions, under specific circumstances. Coverage typically applies if the damage results from a “covered peril,” such as fire, theft, vandalism, or certain types of water damage like a burst pipe.

However, accidental damage, such as dropping the TV, is generally not covered by standard homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Some credit cards offer extended warranty or purchase protection benefits for items bought with the card, which might cover damage for a limited period.

Filing a claim involves gathering documentation like proof of purchase, photos of the damage, and repair estimates. Contact the insurance or warranty provider and provide detailed information about the incident.

Be aware of potential deductibles and coverage limits, as these can impact the final reimbursement amount.