What to look for when selecting a computer repair service

Because the reliability of computers and mobile devices is so important to your daily life, it’s important to know who to call when you have a repair need. But how do you decide which service is the best? Your options could range from a small, local computer repair shop to national chain like Geek Squad/Best Buy. But biggest isn’t always better, and it is in your best interest to do some research before you have the need.

Without a doubt, the very best way to choose a reliable computer repair service is through a referral or by searching online for a company where reviews are most often posted (such as Yelp, Google Local and Angie’s List). You may be tempted by a classy flyer, an Internet citing, or a full page newspaper advertisement – but none of these marketing techniques are equivalent to positive referrals and 5-star reviews. Just keep in mind that flyers and advertisements are not referrals.

One way to check out a repair shop once you have read the reviews is to pay a visit. Most computer repair businesses have a retail area as well – even if it is small. While you browse through the merchandise, listen and observe customers picking up or dropping off their computers. Do they seem satisfied? Do the technicians appear to be knowledgeable and respectful as they answer questions? How long have they been in business?

Computers and devices come in many shapes and sizes. Make sure that they are experienced in your device, whether it is a Mac or PC, a Desktop or Laptop, a Tablet or Smartphone. Are the technicians trained and certified? Not every shop is experienced with every possible computer repair, but it’s a plus if you can find one that has a technical staff that covers most scenarios.

For instance, in the event that your computer becomes infected with a virus, does the service you are considering clean a computer to a “just like new” status. In that case, your virus will be removed, but so will your files. You may want to find a service that offers to back up your data before working on your computer.

If you have a problem with your laptop, its repairs might involve difficult hardware repair work including soldering, replacing the LCD screen or the power jack.

Data recovery is another common problem. Although data recovery could be achieved fairly easily in most cases, it may also very well be the most difficult computer repair job where a specialist is required.

Perhaps your computer needs a performance tune-up. Find out whether the service provides a startup inspection, disk defragmentation, RAM and an analysis of your drive and security updates. And are the technicians experienced in hardware and software installations?

Some of the most obvious questions that people forget to ask include:

• What is the charge per hour? $55 to $75 per hour is average, but it depends on the location of the shop. Sometimes you will find that a shop bills a flat rate for a specific service. Also ask for an estimate of how many billable hours are needed to fix the problem.
• Is there a minimum charge?
• Are there any charges other than the hourly rate?
• Will you save my files?
• How long will it take? Will I be notified when the repair is completed?
• Do you have a guarantee?

HB Computers invites you to visit our location and ask questions! We are highly experienced and have consistently received 5-star ratings on major consumer feedback sites. We look forward to meeting you and discussing how our computer repair services can meet your needs.