As our customers begin researching x-rays systems, they often ask about the option of purchasing a used x-ray system. The purpose of this article is to help explain some of the things you should consider when deciding whether purchasing a new or used system is right for you and your practice.
Most customers who end up purchasing a used system, do so because of cost and wanting to save money. Yes, the price of a used system is often lower than that of a new system. However, the initial purchase price of a used system might not accurately reflect the true cost of ownership for that system.
Here are a few questions to consider when looking at the true cost of purchasing and owning a used system:
- What is the ongoing cost of maintenance and repairs for a used system vs purchasing a new system that comes with a warranty? Unfortunately, we have seen situations where a customer has purchased a used system thinking they were getting a great deal, only to discover that they would have to pay for costly repairs and maintenance that they were not expecting. Most new x-ray systems come with 5 year warranties that are highly valuable. When considering a used system, think about the repairs and maintenance you may need to invest in the used system to keep it operational for the next 10-20 years. If the used system needs a ton of repairs and maintenance, you could easily spend more than if you had purchased a new system.
- Are you planning on financing your x-ray equipment purchase? If you are looking to finance your digital x-ray system an important consideration is that many companies do not finance used equipment.
- What is the cost to de-install, move and re-install the used system? When comparing prices, make sure you account for these costs in your total purchase price. Does the vendor selling the equipment provide these services or will you have to find your own installer?
- Can you verify that the used system you are looking at purchasing works? If you are unable to verify that the system works correctly prior to purchasing, you may be risking having to invest additional money to get the system operational. Also, x-ray machines that have sat in storage or unused for a length of time tend to have more problems.
- Are all of the parts there? Occasionally a part can go missing when an x-ray system is disassembled, stored or moved from one location to another. Unfortunately, we have seen this happen several times. In some cases, this can make the x-ray unusable if the missing part is no longer available.
When looking to purchase a used system, you have to be cautious. There’s often little to no guarantee that the used system will not require costly repairs and maintenance soon after purchase that will negate the cost savings of purchasing used equipment. You may be thinking you are comfortable with the potential risk and still want to purchase a used system.
Here are some things we recommend when purchasing used x-ray equipment:
- Look for an x-ray machine that is under 15 years old.
- Look for an x-ray machine that has a record of routine maintenance and service.
- Look for a system that can show proof of working.
- Pair a used x-ray machine with a new DR panel. Technology on DR panels has evolved over the years and this is not a piece of equipment you want to go used with.
- Avoid CR and older DR panel technology. Some older panel manufacturers are no longer in business and the panels can no longer be supported. CR digital systems and DR panels with CCR or GADOX are older technology and not recommended.
To summarize, we have found that customers often don’t end up saving as much as they hoped they would by purchasing a used digital x-ray system. While it is certainly possible to find a great used system, and we have seen customers with great results- especially when they pair their used machine with a new digital DR panel. Unfortunately, some experience frequent breakdowns and costly repairs when they purchase used equipment. The additional costs and disruption to patient care associated with breakdowns and repairs on used equipment has led to several customers expressing buyers remorse for purchasing a used x-ray system. If you do decide to purchase used equipment, make sure you consider the items we have discussed here.
If you are looking at a used system and need help evaluating if it’s a good deal, please reach out to us. Our team would be happy to assist you and give you honest feedback if we think it’s a good purchase.
