Refurbished Medical Equipment vs New: Cost, Safety, and Warranty Explained

When healthcare facilities consider purchasing medical equipment, the decision often comes down to new versus refurbished. While new equipment may seem like the safer choice at first glance, refurbished medical equipment has become a trusted, cost-effective option for hospitals, clinics, surgery centers, and veterinary practices.

At Outfront Medical, we work with healthcare providers every day who want reliable equipment without the long lead times and high costs associated with buying new. Below, we break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.

What Does “Refurbished Medical Equipment” Really Mean?

Refurbished medical equipment is professionally restored to meet manufacturer specifications and performance standards. This is very different from simply buying “used” equipment.

A proper refurbishment process typically includes:

• Full inspection and testing
• Replacement of worn or failing components
• Calibration and performance verification
• Cosmetic restoration where applicable
• Final quality assurance testing before shipment

Reputable refurbishers follow strict protocols to ensure the equipment is safe, functional, and ready for clinical use.

Cost Comparison: Refurbished vs New

One of the biggest advantages of refurbished equipment is cost savings.

• Refurbished equipment can cost 30–60% less than new
• Capital budgets stretch further, allowing facilities to purchase multiple units instead of one
• Lower upfront costs help smaller practices access higher-end technology

For many facilities, refurbished equipment provides the best balance between performance and affordability.

Safety and Performance

A common misconception is that refurbished equipment is less safe or less reliable than new. In reality, safety depends on how the equipment is refurbished and tested, not whether it is brand new.

When purchased from a reputable supplier:

• Equipment is tested to meet operational standards
• Devices are verified to function within manufacturer specifications
• Performance is documented prior to shipment

Many refurbished units come from low-use environments and have years of remaining service life.

Warranty and Support

Another myth is that refurbished equipment comes with no protection. In fact, most professionally refurbished devices include a warranty.

Typical refurbished warranties may include:

• 30-day to 1-year coverage, depending on the device
• Technical support options
• Access to replacement parts and service

While new equipment warranties may be longer, refurbished warranties still provide peace of mind at a significantly lower cost.

Availability and Lead Times

New medical equipment often comes with extended lead times due to manufacturing backlogs or supply chain delays.

Refurbished equipment:

• Is often in stock and ready to ship
• Allows facilities to respond quickly to growth or emergency needs
• Reduces downtime when replacing failed equipment

This makes refurbished devices especially valuable for urgent or short-notice requirements.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations

When sourced correctly, refurbished medical equipment can be used in clinical settings. The key is working with a supplier that understands regulatory expectations and documentation requirements.

Facilities should expect:

• Clear equipment history
• Serial number tracking
• Proper testing documentation
• Transparent refurbishment standards

Is Refurbished Equipment Right for Your Facility?

Refurbished medical equipment is an excellent option if you:

• Need reliable equipment at a lower cost
• Want to maximize capital budgets
• Require faster delivery than new equipment allows
• Are expanding services or opening new locations

New equipment may still make sense for highly specialized applications or when the latest technology is required. However, for many standard devices, refurbished equipment delivers exceptional value.

Partner With a Trusted Supplier

At Outfront Medical, we specialize in sourcing and supplying quality refurbished medical equipment to healthcare facilities nationwide. Our focus is on transparency, reliability, and helping our customers make confident purchasing decisions.

If you’re considering refurbished medical equipment or want to discuss your options, our team is here to help.

Contact Outfront Medical today to learn more.