FAQ

Some questions we’re frequently asked:

Q: I can’t find anyone who’ll repair my [item] – should I just throw it out or is it worth keeping?

A: Enough of these have been thrown out already; we can forward your inquiry to a collector/repairer (there’s always somebody somewhere) who has the parts or actually makes them. It can take time – and some money – but consider how many times you’ll replace it with a new one. If you love the piece, but can't justify the repair cost, then consider other uses for it. We love to see items reused in imaginative ways!

Q: A lot of the older electrical items use more power than newer ones. Isn’t efficiency an important thing to consider when replacing an old TV or fridge?

A: You should always consider your power usage; after all, we’re about saving materials and keeping green. We’re not inclined to recommend you keep a fifty-year-old fridge running 24/7 in the shed just to keep the weekend beers cool, but we know how you can modify it to make it more economical. A lot of it is about conservative use, when you need it. And not all new things compare favourably – plasma TVs often use around 30% more power than tubes or LCDs. If you are concerned about power usage, you can generally borrow a plug-in power meter from your local library.

Q: How do I keep my ‘70s TV going when the digital switch-over happens? The picture is still fantastic and I love the cabinet.

A: We know how you feel about that old set. Don’t panic; all you need is an RCA/external antenna splitter for the set-top box, or just run your box through the VCR. If you still have a VCR (we think you do) just run the (set-top) output leads through the VCR and use the cable (out) through to the TV antenna plug. You’ll be watching all the new channels instantly on you vintage tube (and wishing there was something worth watching).

Q:Where can I find older Hi Fi and video equipment that’s worth buying?

A: You need to get out more! Seriously – straight down to you nearest St. Vincents or Red Cross – until we hear otherwise, they have checked equipment going for very reasonable ($10-25) prices. Don’t assume you’re the only one looking – if you see something good, buy it. A lot of this gear is becoming popular with the younger set who’ve grown up with iPods.