Repair Tech
[phone repair] Water damage ultrasonic cleaning — still worth offering?
As a repair shop owner, I've been contemplating the value of offering ultrasonic cleaning for water-damaged phones. I’ve seen a surge in water damage cases recently, and while I know ultrasonic cleaning can be effective, I’m unsure if it’s worthwhile to add it to my services. I've done some research, but practical experiences and insights from other shop owners would be invaluable. Currently, I send out most of my water-damaged devices to a local lab, but I wonder if I should invest in an ultrasonic cleaner myself. What’s the typical cost for a decent unit? Also, how do you integrate this service into your workflow? Do you find that it significantly improves repair success rates, or is it more of a niche service that customers might not be willing to pay for?
2 Answers
I run a small repair shop and decided to invest in an ultrasonic cleaner about a year ago. It was a bit pricey upfront, around $600, but has paid off well. We charge customers about $75 for ultrasonic cleaning, and we've noticed a higher success rate in reviving water-damaged phones since incorporating it into our workflow. We also use some repair shop management software to track which devices have undergone this service, which helps streamline our process. I recommend starting with a reliable brand like Branson or iSonic. Make sure to train your team on proper techniques, as it’s crucial for effectiveness. Overall, it’s been a great addition to our services, and customers appreciate having a local solution rather than sending their devices out.
I’ve been in the repair business for a while and have debated over ultrasonic cleaning too. My experience is that it can be hit or miss; sometimes it works wonders, and other times, the damage is too severe. If you’re primarily focused on volume, I’d recommend sticking to your current model of outsourcing water damage repairs unless you’re ready to handle the additional overhead. If you do decide to go for it, I’d suggest starting with a smaller, less expensive unit to test the waters. You might also want to consider a partnership with a local lab for cases that are beyond repair. This way, you can offer a broader service without the risk of investing heavily at the start.