A Guide to Equipping Your Lab for the First Time

If you've decided to open your own lab, you need to know that equipping it may not be as simple as it seems. High-quality and appropriate equipment ensures that everything runs smoothly, which is important for a business where even the tiniest mistake can ruin the whole process. Some pieces of equipment have to be brand new, while others can be second-hand, saving you money and being eco-friendly. You need to know what the right way is.

Testing the equipment

No matter whether you're buying new equipment or second-hand items, you need to make sure everything functions properly. It's the safest way to know it will work once to bring it to your lab and start it. This is especially important if you're buying second-hand items. Even if the item looks like it's in good condition, it doesn't mean it will work. If the seller doesn't allow you to test it, then it's probably faulty.

Make sure there are available parts

Even if you but a perfectly working used machine, check whether spare parts are still available on the market. No use in saving money if you can't replace the parts when they get broken. You'll end up buying a new machine and you wasted more money than planned. Even if you take good care of the machine, it will still have to be fixed at some point simply because it's being used. Parts have to still be available so that you can continue using this piece of equipment. Outdated machines and equipment are not worth buying, no matter how cheap they are.

Buy from a trusted supplier

No matter if you're buying new or used equipment, a trusted supplier is almost a guarantee you'll get what you're paying for. The surest way is to do research on the supplier. If the supplier is certified and trusted in the niche in question, like, for example, Thermoline Scientific Equipment, then you can even get a reference. Also, don't be tempted with very cheap online prices of some equipment. Many times, it just turns out it wasn't worth it.

Ask for the warranty

New pieces of equipment usually come with the warranty and you shouldn't agree with otherwise. Even used pieces come with a warranty. Don't be afraid to ask one from the seller. If they don't have it, the chances are the equipment is broken or not functional at all. It will also help you identify shady sellers – they immediately withdraw from the selling when you ask for a warranty.

The life expectancy should be high

One of the important factors of lab equipment is its durability. Lab equipment is a quite expensive investment so you need to be sure that it has a high life expectancy, meaning more than just a few years. Actually, it should be bought only once. That way, the big initial investment will definitely pay off over a long period of time because you're probably planning to run your lab for decades. So, check the item's history and let the seller inform you of its full capability. It will give you a clearer insight into what you're really paying for.

Final words

When equipping your lab, it's important not to rush the process. This is a one-in-the-lifetime investment, so pick your decisions carefully. Don't be afraid to combine new pieces of equipment with the used ones. Both of them require careful research, a lot of accurate information and testing before the purchase. The right choices will ensure quality and profitable business.

Mike is an Australian business consulting specialist. He’s working with companies that outsource their IT maintenance. He often writes about technology, business and marketing and is a regular contributor on several sites.