A little preparation makes your drop-off appointment quicker and helps me fix the right problem. Here is what I suggest.
1. Schedule first
Service is by appointment. Request a time, or call me, and wait until I confirm a day and time with you. A website request is pending until then.
2. Back up what matters, if you can
A backup is included with every desktop, laptop and Mac repair. When you drop off your computer, backing it up is my first step, if the computer and its drive are in good enough shape to read.
Please still copy your important files somewhere else first if you can. If the computer is clicking, freezing or struggling to start, don’t keep turning it on to try. Turn it off and tell me which files matter most. Getting files off a failing drive is data recovery, which is priced separately and can’t be guaranteed.
3. Write down what is happening
Notes help more than you might expect: when the problem started, what you were doing, any error message (a photo of the screen works), and anything that changed recently, such as an update, a new program, a drop or a spill.
4. Bring the charger
Bring the charger or power adapter. If the repair needs your password or PIN, I will explain how to share it safely. Please do not send passwords through the website form.
5. Know what happens if I find pests
To protect my workspace and other customers’ computers, I stop right away if I find pests, evidence of an infestation or hazardous contamination while I’m working on your computer. I keep it apart from other equipment as best I can and contact you as soon as possible so you can pick it up promptly. The diagnostic deposit isn’t refunded, even if the diagnosis isn’t finished. I’ll share what I found up to that point, but I won’t diagnose or repair it further. The details are in the Terms of Service.
What happens next
- I look into the problem and explain what I found.
- You approve the repair, or decide not to go ahead. Nothing extra is added without your approval.
- I repair and test the device, and we schedule a time for you to pick it up.
A $75 diagnostic deposit applies to all repairs and is credited toward an approved repair. If you decide not to go ahead, it covers the diagnostic work already done and is not refunded. See Pricing for details.