Options for the return of old equipment(only in germany)
Owners of old appliances from private households can hand them in free of charge at the
collection points of the public waste management authorities or at the take-back points set up
by manufacturers or distributors as defined by the ElektroG�
Stores with a sales area of at least 400 m² for electrical and electronic equipment and those
grocery stores with a total sales area of at least 800 m² that offer electrical and electronic
equipment several times a year or on a permanent basis and make it available on the market are
subject to the take-back obligation� This also applies in the case of distribution using means of
distance communication, if the storage and shipping areas for electrical and electronic equipment
are at least 400 m² or the total storage and shipping areas are at least 800 m²� Distributors shall
generally ensure take-back by providing suitable return facilities at a reasonable distance from
the respective end user�
The possibility of returning an old appliance free of charge exists for distributors who are obliged
to take it back, among other things, if a new appliance of the same type, which essentially fulfills
the same functions, is supplied to an end user�
If a new appliance is delivered to a private household, the similar old appliance can also be handed
over there for collection free of charge; this applies in the case of distribution using means of
distance communication to appliances in categories 1, 2 or 4 as defined in Section 2 (1) of the
Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act, namely „heat transmitters“, „display screen equipment“
or „large appliances“ (the latter with at least one external dimension exceeding 50 centimeters)�
End users are asked about their intention to return the equipment when they conclude a purchase
contract� In addition, there is the possibility of free return at collection points of the distributors,
independent of the purchase of a new device, for such old devices that are not larger than 25
centimeters in any external dimension, limited to three old devices per type of device�
Data protection notice
Old devices often contain sensitive personal data� This applies in particular to information and
telecommunications technology devices such as computers and smartphones� In your own interest,
please note that each end user is responsible for deleting the data on the old devices to be disposed of�
Disposal of packaging waste
The packaging is made of materials that may be disposed of at your local recycling facilities� By
properly disposing of the packaging and packaging waste, you will help prevent potential hazards
to the environment and public health�
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