Contractor Tips Blog

Feb
18

Pros and Cons of Smartphone Insurance

Many people spend more on their smartphones than on computers – a new iPhone can cost several hundred dollars or more. Most wireless carriers and manufacturers offer insurance for a premium, giving you protection if you break or lose your phone. While this may seem like a good idea, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before you buy.

Pros of Buying Smartphone Insurance

If you have experienced broken and stolen phones in the past, you may be a good candidate for smartphone insurance. Here are some of the pros of having protection for your smartphone.

  • Multiple repairs. If you tend to smash or drop your phone often, insurance may be a good option.
  • Lost phones. While extended warranties will not help if you lose your phone, phone insurance through your carrier often will replace your phone if lost or stolen.
  • Kid’s phone. Many parents opt for insurance for their kid’s phone, especially if they are irresponsible.

Cons of Buying Smartphone Insurance

When deciding to buy smartphone insurance, you need to make sure the cost is worth the benefits. Some of the cons of insurance include:

  • High deductibles. Maybe you only need to pay $10-15 a month but if you have to pay a few hundred dollar deductible to replace your phone, that is a high cost for insurance. The monthly premiums over two years and deductible can come close to the cost of a new phone.
  • Refurbished phones. Read the fine print – you may only receive a refurbished, not new, phone if you need a replacement.
  • Limited use. Many insurance plans have a limit on how many times you can have your phone repaired or replaced.

If you tend to be careful with your phone, you may want to skip the insurance. This can save you $100-$300 or more per year off insurance (plus deductibles) that you can put toward repairs at a local cell phone shop if needed.

Posted on behalf of Cellairis

Mar
31

Is Cell Phone Insurance Worth the Cost?

Most cell phone carriers offer phone insurance to protect against damage, loss or component failure. With the high cost of iPhones and other brands of smartphones, this can seem like a good idea. However, the cost to cover your phone for replacement or repair can cost a $100 or more per year. Is this insurance worth the cost or would it be better to put that money away in case you need a repair?

Ten or more years ago, phone insurance was a good idea. If your cell phone stopped working or was damaged, you had no local options to get it fixed. Phone insurance was the only way to get your phone repaired or replaced without having to pay full retail on a new phone between upgrades. Times have changed. Now almost every mall has one or more cell phone repair places that can fix your cell phone on the spot. No sending your phone away or waiting on hold when you call to use your insurance. You can walk in to a repair shop and walk out in no time at all with a repaired phone.

Phone insurance has become almost obsolete. No one wants to switch over to an old phone for a week or longer while they wait for a new phone to come in the mail. There is also usually a deductible to pay on top of the monthly premium, so it can cost more than a local repair.

Skip the phone insurance and put that money in a piggy bank instead. If you do need a repair, you will have the money to get it fixed the same day. If you don’t, it will be money you can put toward your next upgrade when the time comes.

Posted on behalf of Cellairis

Jan
23

Can Repairing Your Cell Phone Save you Money?

Cell phones are no longer a freebie with wireless service. Some phones like the iPhone and Samsung Galaxy run several hundred dollars for new models, even hitting a thousand dollars in some cases. Since these phones are often more expensive than a computer or big screen TV, it can be devastating when you damage your cell phone. The question is, should you repair it or buy a new cell phone to make the best financial decision?

Cost Versus Value

When deciding whether to invest in a repair for your cell phone, it comes down to cost and value. While it is not always cheap to repair your cell phone, it is almost always less expensive than buying a new premium phone. You want to ensure that the cost of cell phone repairs will provide you the most value, not just in dollars and cents, but in convenience and practicality. Here are some things to consider:

  • How old is your phone? If you have had it longer than a year and a half, the average time before consumers upgrade their cell phones, you may want to consider a new phone versus repair. A newer phone is always a good bet to be repaired.
  • Do you like your phone? If you love your phone, then get it repaired. Sometimes new is not always better if you really enjoy the product you already own.
  • Do you hate setting up a new phone? When you get a new phone, it can take days, even weeks, to get all the apps and settings the way you like them.

If you like your current cell phone and it is not too old, repairing can be a better option and save you money in long run, while giving you value and convenience. However, if you decide to go with a new phone, check with your local cell phone repair shop. They often buy used, even broken, cell phones for cash.

Posted on behalf of:
iDeviceMD
1570 Old Alabama Rd
Roswell, GA 30076
(678) 869-9899

Nov
30

Repair or Replace: A Cellphone Dilemma

Your iPhone’s screen goes blank or your Samsung Galaxy’s screen is shattered – now what? You depend on your cell phone for much more than just texts and calls – it is your lifeline to the world. Your address book, email, social connections, camera and so much more are tied to that phone. So, is it time to repair your trusty device or should you consider replacement?

While it can be tempting to upgrade to the next model of your favorite brand, consider the implications. If your phone is fairly new, it could last for another year or more before it needs replacement. Upgrading to a new phone means redoing all your settings, downloading your favorites apps and many other inconveniences. It also could mean a big bite out of your wallet.

Cellphone repair has come a long way in the last few years. Considering the cost of a new iPhone or Galaxy, repair is a cost-effective and viable option in most cases. You no longer need to send away your phone for repair through an insurance company. Most major towns and cities have quality cell phone repair shops right in malls and shopping centers – some even offer mobile repairs that come to you.

Most common smartphone issues can be repaired the same day. This means in a few hours you could have your trusty phone back, working like new again. Make sure to ask about the repair warranty. There are shops that offer a lifetime warranty on their repair services.

Skip the upgrade and call a local repair shop first- you could save hundreds of dollars and get more life out of your phone.

iDeviceMD
1570 Old Alabama Rd
Roswell, GA 30076
(678) 869-9899

Nov
30

4 Excellent Reasons to Recycle Your Old Mobile Devices

Every year millions of new cell phones and tablets are purchased in the U.S.; there are also millions of mobile devices that are set aside. Many are shoved into desk drawers, closets and closets, while too many others find their way into landfills. If you have old iPods, iPads or smartphones collecting in your home, now is the time to recycle them. Here are four excellent reasons to recycle all your electronic devices.

  1. Be green. Recycling is the best way to reuse valuable materials instead of mining for new ones. Mobile devices contain gold, silver, plastic and other materials that can be recycled and reused, saving energy needed to mine or manufacture new materials.
  2. Toxic waste. Electronics emit toxins into the soil when they end up in landfills. They are not bio-degradable and add to the mountain of waste in our environment.
  3. De-clutter your home. Why are you still holding on to that first-generation iPhone or iPad? Make room in your home and storage spots by recycling all those old devices that you will never use again.
  4. Money in your wallet. Last, but not least, get some cash for those old mobile devices. There are quality mobile device repair chains that offer money for your old cell phones, tablets and even iPods. Why recycle them for free when you can get a little money back from your investment into new technology?

It is time to gather up all those mobile devices that are collecting dust and trade them in for a little extra cash for your wallet. Recycling is good for the environment and a great way to get money for your next mobile device purchase.

Posted on behalf of Cellairis

Oct
4

5 Reasons to Visit Your Local Cell Phone Repair Store

Do you own an iPhone, iPad or Samsung Galaxy or a combination of these devices? If you do, you need to check out your local cell phone repair store. Most major malls and large retail outlets have a cell phone repair place that can offer many services you may not realize. Even if your device is working great, stop in and see what they offer. You may be surprised to find out they do much more than just repair cell phones. Here are five reasons to learn more about what your local store offers.

  1. Many cell phone repair places have great accessories in stock for your device. While it may not be their focus, you can often find a great screen protector or case for your iPhone.
  2. Cash for old devices. Many cell phone repair shops also buy old iPhones, iPads and other mobile devices. Get some money for those old phones hiding in drawers around your home.
  3. Mobile service. Next time you see a cell phone repair shop, stop in and ask if they offer mobile service. Some repair companies will come to you when you phone or tablet needs repair.
  4. Computer repair. Did you know some cell phone repair shops also do fast repairs on computers? Find out if they work on your brand.
  5. Warrantied repairs. Ask about their warranty on cell phone, tablet and computer repairs. Many have excellent warranties so you can rest assured your device will be repaired with quality parts and expertise.

You never know when you will need the services of a quality cell phone repair shop. Stop in and find out more about what they offer next time you see one during your travels.

Posted on behalf of:
iDeviceMD
1570 Old Alabama Rd
Roswell, GA 30076
(678) 869-9899

Jul
21

Caring for Your Mobile Devices

Smartphones and tablets enhance our lives, keeping us connected wherever we are. We use them for work, school and play, which is why if one gets damaged it can send our life into a tailspin. While accidents happen, there are ways to protect your precious iPhones, iPads and other devices. Get the most life out of your newest device by following these tips for care. 

  • Cover and protect. Smartphones and tablets are too expensive to leave unprotected. Since they go wherever you do, they need armor to protect the delicate screen and case. Invest in a quality cover or case with a screen protector as soon as possible. It only takes one drop on tile, cement or asphalt to shatter your device. If you are active, opt for a case that is rugged for the best protection.
  • Don’t overcharge. One of the most common mistakes people make with their phones and tablets is leaving them on their charger. Not only can this detract from the battery lifespan, there have been instances of fires caused from devices left plugged in.
  • Water protection. If you will be near the pool or out on a body of water, put your device inside a waterproof plastic bag. A large clear plastic bag that seals will allow you to still see and use your device while protecting it from water damage.

Caring for your smartphones and tablets can help ensure they last – at least until you decide it is time to upgrade to the newest model. However, if your device does get damaged, there are local repair shops that can fix your device the same day so you never need to be without your beloved device for long.

Posted on behalf of:
iDeviceMD
1570 Old Alabama Rd
Roswell, GA 30076
(678) 869-9899

Apr
19

Importance of Recycling Your Cell Phone

Electronic waste has become a major problem in landfills, especially items that are replaced often like cell phones. It is estimated that the average cell phone owner replaces their device about every year and a half, even when their current device is still working. The problem is where the old phones go once they have been replaced by a new model. Recycling is vital to keep these devices out of landfills to protect the environment.

Cell phones are made from materials that can be toxic to the environment. The metals and other elements they contain can pollute the water system and soil, never breaking down but building up to toxic levels. However, almost all the components in cell phones can be recycled or reused. By recycling a million cell phones, the following metals can be obtained:

  • 750 pounds of silver
  • 70 pounds of gold
  • 30 pounds of palladium
  • 35,000 pounds of copper

These metals can be used to make new cell phones and other electronic devices, instead of mining for more metals. This also saves on the resources needed to mine and process these metals, offering a double benefit to the environment.

Electronic recycling is recommended by the EPA and is the law in many states. Most major retailers of electronics offer e-cycling drop-off points where you can bring your cell phones, TVs, computers and other devices. But you don’t need to recycle your cell phones for free. Most cell phones are worth money, even when they don’t work any longer.

Check with your local cell phone repair store. Some of the major chains of cell phone repair also buy old cell phones for cash, recycling them for their usable parts and materials. It is a great way to finally recycle those old cell phones and get paid a little money for doing the right thing.

Posted on behalf of:
iDeviceMD
1570 Old Alabama Rd
Roswell, GA 30076
(678) 869-9899

Apr
19

Give Your Old Phone a New Look

Cell phones have become more than just a way to stay connected. They are the unisex accessory that goes with you wherever you go. For many, the look of their cell phone is as important as the clothes they put on each day. It needs to be stylish and fit their personality. If you have been considering replacing your old phone because it no longer reflects your taste, why not just give it a makeover instead? Here are a few ways to give your old phone a new look to avoid the expense of replacement.

  • Fix that cracked screen. Have you been using an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy with a cracked screen for months? Not only does it look bad, it can jeopardize the phone’s components. Get that screen repaired – many quality cell phone repair stores can fix cracks in just a few minutes.
  • Update your case. Your cell phone can look like new again with a simple changing of its outfit. Cases come in thousands of options, including customized styles you make yourself. Pick up a few new cases and change the look of your cell phone to match your mood.
  • Add accessories. How your phone looks is not as important as how well it functions. New accessories like headphones, speakers and chargers can ensure your phone does everything you need.

Buying a new cell phone is expensive. If your existing phone stills works great, keep it and save the money by giving a new look and makeover. Fixing a crack or buying a new case is an affordable way to extend the life of your phone while keeping it fresh and stylish.

Posted on behalf of Cellairis

Dec
30

Broken iPhone: Repair or Replace?

It happens to even the most scrupulous iPhone user. Even with screen protectors and expensive cases, your iPhone is never completely resilient to damage. Drop that phone just right on cement or accidentally sit on it when it is in your pocket and you can end up with a cracked screen that just doesn’t function right anymore. Even a tiny crack will eventually grow, turning your trusty iPhone into an expensive paperweight. So when the unthinkable happens, do you shell out hundreds of dollars for a new phone or get it repaired?

The problem with many repair options is that you need to send your phone to be fixed or replaced, especially if you use phone insurance through your carrier. While this may seem like a good option, in the mean time you are without a phone. There is a good chance you will not get your same phone back, meaning you will need to reload all your apps and other settings on your replacement phone. The same is true if you buy a new phone. But there is one more option: same day, local repair.

Luckily, there are now mobile device repair shops in most shopping centers that can repair your iPhone on the spot. Some even offer mobile repairs where the technician comes to you. Most common damage issues can be fixed in as little as a few minutes, allowing you to keep your same phone, apps and settings, while repairing your cracked screen or other issues.

If you find yourself with a broken iPhone, iPad or other mobile device, check around before going through the hassle of sending it off for repair or buying a new device. You may be able to get it fixed the same day for a reasonable price right in your home town.

Posted on behalf of:
iDeviceMD
1570 Old Alabama Rd
Roswell, GA 30076
(678) 869-9899

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