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Has your computer broken down on you? If so, a word of advice: skip trying to fix it yourself and call in a PC technician right away.

See, today’s computers can malfunction in a myriad of ways. If you’re unfamiliar with tech jargon, just diagnosing the issue can be a struggle. And even if you manage that, there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to fix it.

To save yourself the stress of troubleshooting your PC, leave this task to the professionals. Here are seven tips that will help you choose the right computer repair service for your needs!

1. Know What to Look For

These days, most repair shops offer a variety of computer repair services. Ideally, you’ll want a company that gives you as many options as possible.

Let’s say you need to reinstall your OS. At first glance, this is a simple fix that any repair shop can do. If there’s a software issue preventing the installation, though, you’ll want a technician who knows how to deal with it.

Is your computer broken and you have no idea why? If so, look for a home computer service that offers a free system diagnostic before giving a quote. This is the best way to ensure that repairing your PC will be worth it.

2. Read the Reviews

Step number two: collect feedback on your potential options. For best results, look at both personal recommendations and online reviews.

Start by asking your family and friends for opinions. Word of mouth is still the most reliable form of marketing out there. And since everyone has a PC these days, it shouldn’t be too hard to get recommendations this way.

For online reviews, focus on third-party review aggregators like Yelp. These sites often allow companies to interact with customers, which can be a valuable data point. Check if the repair service has a BBB listing as well.

Finally, you can check the company’s site for selected reviews and testimonials. Disregard reviews that seem too positive and focus on those that offer helpful details on how the company does business.

3. Consider Customer Support

Being without a PC can be stressful, so you’ll want to know you’ll get it back ASAP. The solution: find a repair shop with solid customer support.

One way to guarantee solid support is to choose a local PC repair shop. If you go to a big chain, your PC might travel to several locations before it’s fixed. With a local service, you likely won’t need to wait as long.

Want to test a company’s customer support? Ask them to give you an estimated timeline for the entire repair process. If they’re reliable, they’ll show up on time and stay in touch with you throughout the process.

4. Look for On-Site Services

The only thing worse than a broken computer is having to disconnect it, pack it up, and haul it across town. Fortunately, this isn’t always necessary.

While you’re looking up repair services, see if they offer on-site support. That means they’ll come to your house and diagnose your computer. Most companies charge extra for this service, but the convenience is worth it.

Keep in mind that even a great PC technician can’t fix all computer problems on-site. For example, recovering your data may require a more thorough study. Still, it’s always worth checking if the problem is serious or not.

5. Check Their Credentials

By now, you likely have a few repair shops you’re seriously considering. This is a good time to look at their credentials and experience.

First, ask them to see their license to operate and confirm it’s up to date. This will ensure that you won’t end up with pirated software on your PC. You can find a business license number by contacting your local licensing authority.

Next, see if your repair shop of choice has liability insurance. That’s the key factor that separates them from a nephew who’s “good with computers.” If the professional makes a mistake, they can cover the damages.

It’s also a good idea to look at the company’s experience. This isn’t a key indicator of quality, but it can sort out the wheat from the chaff. A company that’s been around for decades should have a solid reputation.

6. Ask for Guarantees

Any reputable laptop repair service will offer a guarantee for their work. They’ll likely offer a warranty on spare parts and accessories as well.

If possible, choose a company that adheres to a “no fix, no fee” policy. In other words, if they can’t fix your issue, they won’t charge for their service. An honest technician will tell you if your computer is fixable or not.

In the computer industry, a guarantee can last anywhere from three months to a year. The exact length will depend on the complexity of broken technology, the type of services rendered, and so on.

7. Compare Service Costs

As you narrow down your list of candidates, the cost of services becomes a key factor. Get at least three estimates before choosing a repair shop.

In general, it’s best to avoid companies that charge upfront or by the hour. Most repair services have fixed rates for specific types of jobs. Make sure their estimate includes the price of spare parts they may need to order.

Hunting for bargains is a good idea, but don’t use prices as the primary criterion to make a decision. If a company offers far lower rates than its competitors, its computer repair solutions may be subpar.

Choosing a Computer Repair Service

The bottom line: choosing a computer repair service will take some effort. That said, this is nothing compared to the effort you may waste trying to fix your computer yourself. Plus, the above guide will help you get started!

Looking for an experienced computer repair shop that offers a wide range of services? If so, you’re already in the right place! Contact us right here to get a free evaluation or learn more about our services.