Refurbished Motor Controls: Are They Worth It? Pros & Cons

Introduction

Refurbished motor controls – also known as reconditioned or used motor control devices – are pre-owned electrical components that have been restored to good working condition. They include equipment like motor starters, variable frequency drives (VFDs), motor control centers (MCCs), circuit protection devices, and other controllers used in industrial automation systems. Companies consider refurbished motor controls for several reasons: they often cost a fraction of the price of new units, they can be available immediately (avoiding long manufacturing lead times), and they give a second life to industrial components that might otherwise be scrapped. In today’s market, long lead times for new electrical equipment – in some cases 10 months or more – have made used motor controls an attractive option to minimize downtime. In this article, we’ll examine the industrial motor control options available and weigh the motor control pros and cons of buying refurbished units versus new, helping you decide if they are worth it for your operation.

What Are Refurbished Motor Controls?

Refurbished motor controls are electrical motor control devices that have been previously used but then restored and tested by a qualified supplier so they can be resold in reliable working order. This category can include anything from individual motor starters and VFDs to entire motor control panels or MCC sections. Importantly, refurbished (or reconditioned) is not the same as simply “used.” A used motor control might be sold as-is, with no guarantee of functionality. In contrast, a refurbished unit has typically undergone inspection, any necessary repairs or part replacements, thorough cleaning, and verification that it meets original performance specifications. In other words, refurbishment aims to bring the device as close to “like new” condition as possible in terms of operation and safety.

To illustrate, imagine a factory upgrades its system and removes an older motor starter. If that starter is simply resold as-is, it’s a used unit. But if a specialized shop takes it, replaces worn contacts, tests the overload relay, repaints or reconditions the enclosure, and certifies it works correctly, it becomes a reconditioned motor control ready for a new owner. Many reputable refurbishers will even provide a warranty or guarantee on the rebuilt unit (often around 6–12 months), giving buyers confidence in the product’s reliability. In summary, refurbished motor controls offer a middle ground between brand-new equipment and raw second-hand gear: they are pre-owned devices restored to serviceable condition and verified for functionality, which can then be integrated into industrial automation systems just like new controls.

Pros of Buying Refurbished Motor Controls

When considering industrial motor control options, there are several advantages to choosing refurbished or reconditioned units. Below are some of the key pros:

• Significant Cost Savings: The most obvious benefit is lower cost. Refurbished motor controls are much cheaper than new ones – often available at a fraction of the price of an equivalent brand-new unit. This can translate to thousands of dollars in savings on expensive equipment. In fact, some experts note that well-rebuilt electrical equipment can perform as well as new for less than half the cost. These upfront savings free up budget that companies can redirect to other needs or allow smaller firms to afford reliable motor controls without breaking the bank.
• Quick Availability & Reduced Lead Times: Purchasing new motor control centers or drives can entail long lead times (sometimes many weeks or months for manufacturing and delivery). Refurbished motor controls, by contrast, are usually in-stock and ready to ship, meaning you can acquire and install them much faster. This rapid deployment is invaluable when a critical motor controller fails and you need a replacement immediately to resume operations. Bypassing the long wait for new equipment helps minimize downtime and keep production on schedule – a competitive edge when time is of the essence.
• Proven Reliability (When Properly Refurbished): A common misconception is that used or refurbished equipment is less reliable. In reality, reputable suppliers thoroughly inspect and test refurbished motor controls to meet strict quality standards. Worn or faulty components (like contacts, capacitors, fans, etc.) are replaced during the refurbishing process. As a result, a good refurbished unit can be just as functional and dependable as a new counterpart. In some cases, having seen real-world service can even prove a device’s durability (for example, a used motor drive that has already run for years indicates a robust design). When buying from a trusted source, you can expect the rebuilt motor control to perform reliably in your system.
• Lower Risk with Warranties: Unlike buying unknown used equipment at auction, purchasing refurbished from a certified vendor often includes a warranty or guarantee. Many industrial surplus suppliers offer about a one-year in-service warranty on reconditioned motor control products. This means if the unit fails within that period, you can get support or a replacement – reassurance that is typically not available with “as-is” used buys. The warranty reflects the refurbisher’s confidence in the quality of their work and provides the buyer some protection, thereby reducing risk.
• Environmental and Sustainability Benefits: Opting for refurbished motor controls is also a smart choice from a sustainability standpoint. By reusing and extending the life of existing equipment, you help prevent industrial components from ending up in landfills prematurely. Refurbishing consumes far fewer resources than manufacturing new equipment (which requires raw materials, energy, and water). Therefore, companies can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the circular economy by buying reconditioned gear. In an age where sustainable practices are increasingly valued, using refurbished electrical controls is both an economical and an environmentally responsible decision.
• Fit for Legacy Systems & Hard-to-Find Parts: In industrial settings, you might have older motors or control systems where the original manufacturer’s parts are discontinued or hard to source new. Refurbished and surplus markets can be a goldmine for legacy motor control components. You can find that one obsolete drive or specific starter model to keep an older production line running, whereas buying new might require a costly full system upgrade. In this way, refurbished controls provide solutions for maintaining and repairing legacy equipment. They also offer customization opportunities – for example, a refurbished MCC lineup can sometimes be adapted or configured to suit your exact requirements, unlike new MCCs which come in predefined designs. This adaptability can simplify integration into existing infrastructure.

In summary, the pros of refurbished motor controls include dramatic cost savings, faster availability, proven reliability (with proper testing), warranty support, environmental advantages, and the ability to support legacy systems. These benefits make a compelling case to at least consider used or reconditioned motor control equipment as an alternative to new units in the right circumstances.

Cons and Risks to Consider

While there are many positives, it’s important to also weigh the potential drawbacks and risks of buying refurbished or used motor controls:

• Uncertain Remaining Lifespan: By definition, a refurbished control has seen prior use, so it may not have the full lifespan of a brand-new unit. Critical components could have accumulated wear or stress over time. Even after refurbishment, the remaining useful life of the device might be shorter than a new one’s. For example, electronic drives have capacitors and other parts that age – if not all such parts are replaced, the unit could fail sooner than a new model would. Buyers should temper expectations and recognize that a reconditioned unit, while reliable, might need replacement again sooner than if you had bought new (depending on its age and how extensive the refurbishing was).
• Older Technology & Features: Another consideration is that used/refurbished motor controls are often of an older design. New equipment usually comes with the latest technology – improved energy efficiency, advanced diagnostic features, modern safety enhancements, or better communication interfaces. By contrast, a refurbished unit might lack some of these innovations. For instance, a 15-year-old VFD will likely not be as energy-efficient or compact as a state-of-the-art model, and it may not support newer industrial networking protocols. If having the cutting-edge features or highest efficiency is crucial for your application, a refurbished solution could be limiting.
• Limited or No Manufacturer Support: When you purchase a new motor control from the OEM, you typically get technical support, documentation, and firmware updates from the manufacturer, along with a multi-year factory warranty. With older refurbished units, the original manufacturer’s support may no longer be available (especially if the model is obsolete). You’ll be relying on the reseller’s expertise for any issues. Firmware or software for older controls might not be updated to address newer issues. And if a serious problem arises outside the refurbisher’s warranty, you might have to replace the unit since OEM repair services could be unavailable for discontinued models.
• Variable Quality (Choose Your Supplier Wisely): Not all refurbishment is equal. The biggest risk in buying used or reconditioned equipment is quality uncertainty if the source is not trustworthy. If you purchase from an unknown seller or a company that doesn’t thoroughly vet its products, you could end up with a subpar unit that malfunctions at the worst time. For example, a poorly reconditioned starter might have cheap replacement parts or hidden electrical damage. “Below-standard parts” or shoddy workmanship can mean the control “will work for the time being but may very well stop working when you need it most”. This is why evaluating the refurbisher’s reputation and processes (as discussed in the next section) is so critical. In short, the reliability of a refurbished motor control is only as good as the shop that rebuilt it – a major caveat for buyers.
• Shorter or Uncertain Warranty: Unlike new equipment which often carries a 1-2 year (or more) manufacturer’s warranty, refurbished units usually have a shorter warranty period, if one is provided at all. Many reputable refurbishers do include a warranty (e.g. 6 or 12 months), but it varies and is generally less extensive than new-product warranties. If a used control fails outside the warranty window, you’ll have to absorb the repair or replacement cost. Additionally, some used equipment is sold “as-is” with no warranty, especially if bought at auction or from third-party brokers. This increases the risk – if it arrives DOA or fails early, there may be no recourse. Buyers must be comfortable with these warranty limitations and factor them into the total cost/risk equation.
• Compatibility and Safety Compliance: Integrating older refurbished controls into modern systems isn’t always seamless. There could be compatibility issues – for instance, an older MCC bucket might not physically fit into a newer MCC lineup, or an outdated motor controller might not interface with current PLCs without extra converters. Ensure the voltage, phase, and control interface of the used unit match your system’s requirements. Additionally, safety standards evolve over time. A motor control panel built decades ago might not meet today’s electrical codes or arc-flash safety standards unless updated. It’s important to verify that any refurbished control gear still complies with relevant OSHA, NFPA, or IEC standards for safety. Reputable refurbishers typically test units to industry specs (for example, IEC 61439 routine tests for MCCs) to catch any issues, but users should double-check things like the integrity of protective devices, insulation, and emergency stop circuits in an older unit.

In summary, the cons of refurbished motor controls include potentially shorter lifespan, older technology, lack of OEM support, variable refurbishment quality, limited warranty, and possible compatibility or compliance hurdles. However, many of these risks can be mitigated by careful evaluation and choosing the right supplier, as we’ll discuss next.

Key Factors to Evaluate When Buying Used or Reconditioned Units

If you decide to explore used motor controls or refurbished units, it’s crucial to perform due diligence. Here are key factors and tips to ensure you get a quality, safe product:

• Source Reputation and Expertise: Buy from a trusted vendor with a proven track record in reconditioning electrical equipment. Research the company’s experience and capabilities – do they specialize in industrial motor controls? A reputable refurbisher should employ certified technicians and follow documented procedures for overhaul and testing. Look for reviews or ask for references from other customers. Always purchase from a shop you trust rather than the cheapest unknown seller. Companies like Breaker Hunters, Inc. (the sponsor of this article) have in-house experts who rebuild and thoroughly vet each unit, which greatly reduces the risk of quality issues.
• Testing and Quality Assurance: Ask about the refurbishment process and testing performed. Rigorous testing is a must – the supplier should conduct electrical tests, functional run-tests, and inspections to verify the unit meets specifications and is free of faults. For instance, reputable shops will Megger test insulation, verify contactor operation, test VFDs under load, etc., before listing a product for sale. Ideally, the refurbisher follows industry standards for testing (for example, performing the same routine tests on a refurbished MCC as would be done on a new assembly ). Don’t hesitate to request test reports or a certification of proper operation. Quality assurance steps like these ensure the reconditioned unit is safe and reliable to use.
• Warranty and Support: Review what warranty or guarantee is provided on the used/reconditioned unit. As noted, many good suppliers offer a 6-month or 1-year warranty on refurbished motor controls – this is a sign they stand behind their work. Understand the warranty terms (what it covers, whether you get repair or replacement, etc.). Also, inquire about post-sale support: Will the vendor’s engineers help with installation questions or troubleshooting if needed? Having some level of support can be invaluable when integrating older equipment. Favor sellers who offer a clear warranty and support policy, as it indicates confidence in their product quality and gives you peace of mind.
• Condition and Refurbishment Scope: Not all “refurbished” units are equal – some may be fully overhauled to like-new condition, while others might be only lightly cleaned and tested. Try to determine how extensively the unit was refurbished. Were any high-failure components proactively replaced (e.g. did they put in new capacitors in a drive, new seals in a starter, or replace burnt contacts)? Is the unit cleaned of dust, corrosion, and old labels? An extensively reconditioned control with new critical parts will likely last longer than one that was simply verified to power on. If possible, inspect photos or documentation: a fresh coat of paint and clean interior are signs of a thorough refurb. Don’t be afraid to ask the seller specifically what work was done on the unit.
• Compatibility and Specifications: Verify that the refurbished motor control unit is compatible with your system’s requirements. Check all the specs: operating voltage, horsepower or current rating, phase (single/three-phase), control voltage, and any communication interfaces. For example, ensure a replacement VFD has the correct voltage rating (e.g. 480V) and amperage for your motor, and that its I/O can integrate with your control scheme. If it’s an MCC bucket or starter, confirm it physically fits your enclosure type and bus configuration. Also consider the firmware or software version on devices like drives or soft-starters – you may want it updated to a certain revision if your other system components require it. Essentially, do the homework to make sure the “new-to-you” component will be a drop-in replacement or at least adaptable to your application without major modifications.
• Inspection for Damage or Wear: If you have the opportunity, inspect the unit’s physical condition (or request detailed pictures). Look for signs of excessive wear, such as heat discoloration, cracked insulators, corrosion, or burned smell, which might indicate past stress or incomplete refurbishment. On a motor starter, check the contacts and arc chutes; on a VFD or soft starter, see if cooling fans are clean and if capacitors show any bulging. A good refurbisher will have addressed these issues, but it’s wise to double-check. Ensure all covers, guards, and safety interlocks are in place. If anything looks questionable, ask the seller about it. Remember that safety is paramount: the unit should be in sound condition both electrically and mechanically.
• Compliance and Certifications: Finally, verify any regulatory compliance needed. For instance, in the U.S., industrial control panels often require a UL 508A listing. If you are installing a refurbished panel or MCC section, determine if the refurbisher is able to provide a UL certification or if the authority having jurisdiction will accept the refurbished unit. In many cases, refurbished components reused in an existing system are acceptable, but a field evaluation may be required for custom reconditioned assemblies. Check local electrical codes and standards relevant to your industry. A quality refurbisher will usually test to the original standards (as mentioned earlier) and may label the equipment accordingly. Ensuring compliance up front will save headaches down the road.

By carefully evaluating these factors – source reputation, testing, warranty, refurbishment depth, compatibility, condition, and compliance – you can greatly improve your chances of a successful purchase when buying used or reconditioned motor controls. Essentially, do your homework and don’t hesitate to ask the seller detailed questions. A trustworthy supplier will be transparent about their process and product condition. Taking these precautions helps ensure you get a safe, high-quality unit that delivers the expected electrical motor control savings without unpleasant surprises.

Applications and Real-World Use Cases

Refurbished motor controls are used across a wide range of industries and scenarios where cost, time, or system requirements make new equipment less ideal. Here are a few real-world use cases and applications illustrating where refurbished or used motor controls can be a smart choice:

• Emergency Replacements in Critical Operations: One of the most common use cases is when a critical motor controller fails unexpectedly in a plant, and a replacement is needed immediately. For example, consider a manufacturing line where a main spindle motor VFD dies. Ordering a new drive might entail weeks of lead time, during which production would be halted – an unacceptable situation. In such cases, companies often turn to refurbished motor controls from surplus suppliers to get back up and running within days or even hours. The quick availability of a reconditioned drive or starter can save massive downtime costs. Many large factories keep an inventory of refurbished spares on hand for this reason, especially for older equipment. It’s essentially an insurance policy against long outages.
• Maintaining Legacy Systems: Industries like power generation, water treatment, and oil & gas often have very long-lived equipment, where the control systems may be decades old. Upgrading an entire control system to current tech can be extremely expensive or impractical. Refurbished motor controls allow these operations to extend the life of legacy systems by finding direct replacement parts. For instance, a 1980s-era wastewater treatment plant might rely on motor control centers that are no longer produced; when a starter bucket fails, a used/refurbished identical model from a surplus dealer can slot in to restore functionality without needing to re-engineer the whole MCC. Similarly, in commercial HVAC or facilities management, an obsolete fan motor VFD can be swapped with a reconditioned like-for-like unit to avoid retrofitting a new control architecture. These scenarios show how refurbished controls serve as lifesavers to keep legacy infrastructure running smoothly.
• Cost-Conscious Expansion or Upgrades: Small-to-medium manufacturers and industrial companies sometimes want to expand capacity or add additional motor-driven equipment but have limited capital budget. In such cases, using refurbished motor control components can make projects feasible. For example, a food processing company looking to add a couple of conveyor lines could outfit them with used motor starters and drives at a much lower cost than buying all new controls. This frees up budget for other parts of the project. Start-ups or pilot plants also benefit – they can implement an automation system using reconditioned controls to prove the concept, then later decide if upgrading to new gear is justified. The ROI (return on investment) can be very attractive when the initial costs are kept low by utilizing refurbished equipment, especially if the performance difference is negligible for the application.
• Temporary or Seasonal Operations: Not all industrial operations run year-round; some are seasonal or short-term (for example, agricultural product processing during harvest season, or a construction project’s dewatering pumps). In such cases, companies may opt for used or refurbished motor controls because the equipment will only be needed for a limited time or intermittently. Buying brand-new might not be cost-effective if the utilization is low. Refurbished controls can fill the need at a lower cost, and if the operation ends, the equipment can be kept as backup or resold. Renting equipment is another alternative, but owning refurbished gear can be cheaper in the long run for repeated seasonal use.
• Examples of Industries: To give a sense of breadth, refurbished motor controls find application in industries such as: manufacturing and assembly plants, mining and minerals processing (where rugged older equipment is common), power generation and utilities, oil and gas facilities (e.g. controlling pumps and compressors), water and wastewater treatment (many municipal plants use reconditioned pump motor controls), food and beverage processing, marine and shipping (ship engine room controls or port facilities often use refurbished electricals), and more. In any industry that relies on electric motors and automation, there are likely use cases for refurbished control equipment – either to save money, reduce downtime, or solve an obsolescence issue. The key is that in these real-world scenarios, refurbished motor controls have proven to be practical solutions that deliver the needed performance at lower cost or faster speed than new equipment, validating their worth in the field.

New vs. Used vs. Reconditioned: A Comparison

When deciding between new, used, or refurbished motor controls, it helps to compare these options head-to-head. Each has its place, and the best choice depends on your priorities (budget, risk, time, etc.). Here’s a comparison of the three categories:

New Motor Controls

Buying new from the manufacturer gives you the latest technology and full factory support. New motor controls will have the most up-to-date designs, offering advantages like higher energy efficiency, modern safety features, and integration with current automation systems. They come with long manufacturer warranties and support services, ensuring any early failures are covered and technical assistance is available. You can often customize new equipment to exactly match your specs (especially for large MCCs or custom panels) and be confident it has a full operational life ahead of it. The downsides are cost and lead time: new units are by far the most expensive option, and as discussed, they may have significant lead times for build and delivery. In summary, new motor controls are ideal when you need cutting-edge performance, guaranteed longevity, and can afford the higher price and wait. They provide peace of mind and maximum uptime potential, at the expense of a high upfront investment.

Used Motor Controls (As-Is)

“At the other end of the spectrum are used motor controls sold as-is (for example, through auctions, equipment liquidations, or second-hand dealers). The only real advantage of used as-is equipment is the rock-bottom price – it will almost always be the cheapest option initially. You might also get lucky and find a rare or discontinued part this way. However, the risks are high: with as-is used gear, there are no guarantees of functionality or safety. You generally get no warranty, and the unit could have hidden problems or wear that aren’t immediately apparent. Any testing or refurbishment is your responsibility after purchase. Essentially, it’s a gamble – you might save a lot of money upfront, but if the unit fails or has issues, the cost of downtime or repairs can quickly erase those savings. Used as-is controls are typically only recommended if you have the ability to test and refurbish them yourself (or are willing to accept the risk). In practice, many companies avoid pure as-is purchases for critical equipment unless it’s an absolute last resort or for non-critical/non-production use.

Refurbished (Reconditioned) Motor Controls

Refurbished motor controls occupy the middle ground. A reconditioned unit is a used device that has been professionally restored and verified, so it offers much of the reliability of a new unit, but at a significantly lower cost. You can expect a refurbished control to come tested and in working condition, often with a limited warranty as backup. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the newest models, it will perform the core functions it’s designed for. The price is higher than buying unrefurbished used gear, but still substantially less than new – giving you a strong value proposition. For many, this option strikes the best balance: you get a dependable piece of equipment (thanks to the refurbishing process) without paying the premium for brand new. The trade-offs include the slightly higher risk and shorter warranty compared to new, and possibly somewhat reduced lifespan or efficiency as discussed in the cons. But for many industrial applications, a quality refurbished unit can deliver near-new performance and longevity at around 30–50% of the new price, which is often well worth it.

In summary, new vs. used vs. refurbished can be seen as a trade-off triangle between cost, risk, and performance:

• New = highest performance and support, lowest risk, but highest cost and longest wait.
• Used (as-is) = lowest upfront cost, but highest risk and uncertainty (you assume the burden of any problems).
• Refurbished = middle cost, low-to-moderate risk (mitigated by testing/warranty), and performance close to new for most purposes.

Each option has scenarios where it makes sense. Many companies use a mix – for critical and long-term systems, they invest in new, whereas for quick fixes, spares, or budget-limited projects, they smartly leverage refurbished gear.

Tips for Ensuring Quality and Safety

No matter which option you choose, when dealing with electrical motor control equipment, safety and reliability are paramount. Here are some tips to ensure quality and safe operation, especially if you’re implementing refurbished motor controls:

• Use Qualified Professionals for Installation: Always have a certified electrician or engineer install and commission the motor control. They can verify wiring, settings (like overload trip points or VFD parameters), and ensure the unit is integrated correctly. Proper installation is critical to safety – it includes grounding the equipment, tightening all power connections to the correct torque, and following manufacturer instructions. A pro will also do a startup test to confirm the control works with your motor and that there are no faults. This step is important whether the unit is new or refurbished.
• Perform Incoming Inspections: When you receive a refurbished motor control, do your own incoming check before putting it into service. This might involve a visual inspection (ensuring nothing was damaged in transit, all components are secure), verifying nameplate data vs your order, and possibly some electrical tests. For example, you might do an insulation resistance (megohmmeter) test on a motor starter or run a low-power test on a VFD without load. Confirm that adjustable settings (like DIP switches or programming) are in the desired configuration. Catching any issue at this stage can prevent applying power to a faulty unit.
• Verify Protection Devices: Motor control equipment often includes protective devices – circuit breakers, fuses, overload relays, ground fault sensors, etc. In a refurbished unit, these should have been checked, but it’s wise to double-verify them. Ensure fuses are of the correct type and rating for your circuit. If there’s a breaker, you might consider testing its trip (some facilities do primary injection testing or at least verify the breaker isn’t seized). Overload relays should be set to the proper motor current. Basically, make sure all circuit protection and safety interlocks are functioning as intended, so that in the event of an overload, short, or fault, the system will safely shut down.
• Consult Documentation (Old and New): If the refurbished control comes with documentation or a manual, review it. Even if not, try to obtain a manual for that model (many can be found online via the manufacturer’s archives). Understanding the device’s requirements (e.g. cooling clearances for a drive, or the wiring diagram for a starter) helps avoid misuse. Also, document any changes you make – for instance, if you program a VFD or adjust settings, keep a record. Good documentation ensures that anyone working on the system in the future is aware of the equipment’s configuration. Treat a refurbished unit with the same level of procedural care as new equipment: lockout/tagout during installation, proper panel labeling, and updated electrical schematics for your plant.
• Monitor Initial Operation Closely: When first putting the refurbished motor control into operation, keep a close eye on it. Listen for any unusual noises (a humming contactor or an VFD fan that isn’t running, for example). Use thermal imaging or touch (carefully) to see if any part is running hot. Check that motors start and stop as commanded and that protective trips work (you might do a test stop by hitting an E-stop or overload test). The initial run-in period can reveal any lingering issues. Most problems, if they exist, will surface early. If the unit runs smoothly through its first several days or weeks of operation, it’s a good sign that it will be a solid performer going forward. Nonetheless, incorporate it into your regular maintenance schedule – e.g. periodic inspections and cleaning – to keep it in top shape.

Following these tips will help ensure that your refurbished motor controls work safely and effectively in your facility. Essentially, treat a refurbished unit with the same rigor you would a new piece of equipment: verify it, install it correctly, and maintain it. With the proper precautions, reconditioned controls can deliver reliable service with no compromise to safety or performance.

Cost Savings and ROI: Electrical Motor Control Savings Explained

One of the biggest motivations for choosing refurbished motor controls is the cost savings – but how does that translate into ROI (return on investment) for your business? Let’s break it down:

First, the direct savings are clear: you might pay only 30-70% of the cost of a new unit for a refurbished one. For example, if a new motor starter panel costs $10,000, a reconditioned equivalent might be $5,000 – immediately saving you $5k. That freed-up capital can be invested elsewhere, used to purchase spare units, or simply improves your project’s bottom line. Over a large project or many motors, the savings add up to significant figures. As one source noted, refurbished electrical equipment can deliver the same function “for less than half the cost” of new in some cases. These reduced capital expenditures improve your short-term cash flow and lower the hurdle rate for project approvals.

Now consider the time value aspect: if using a refurbished control allows you to get a system operational weeks or months sooner (by avoiding long lead times), that time saved is money earned. For instance, if your production line is down, every day of downtime might cost tens of thousands in lost revenue. Getting a motor control replaced in 2 days with a surplus unit instead of waiting 8 weeks for a new one can prevent a huge loss – effectively yielding an enormous “return” relative to the small premium you paid for having an immediate solution. Even in non-emergency cases, faster deployment of equipment means you start generating output or income sooner, improving the project’s net present value.

Over the long term, operational ROI depends on reliability and lifespan. If a refurbished motor control lasts many years in service (as a quality unit should), the value extracted from that asset is comparable to a new unit. Let’s say a new drive might last 10+ years, and a refurbished one (which was, for example, 5 years old when you bought it) lasts another 5 years. You paid maybe half price for essentially 50% of the lifespan – that’s a roughly equivalent cost per year of service. In practice, some refurbished motors and controls, when properly rebuilt, can surprise you with longevity. And because you paid less upfront, you have flexibility; you could buy a second backup unit and still spend less than the new price, further reducing risk of downtime. Some companies use this strategy: buy two refurbished units for the price of one new, install one and keep the other as a ready spare. This virtually guarantees continuity of operations and can boost overall ROI by minimizing unplanned downtime.

It’s also worth noting the soft ROI factors: Using refurbished equipment can help defer large capital expenditures. This is financially advantageous if you have other opportunities to invest in (e.g. new product lines, efficiency improvements) – you’re not tying up as much money in equipment, so you can allocate it to revenue-generating activities. Additionally, there may be tax or accounting benefits to buying used equipment (for instance, you might be able to expense it rather than capitalize it if under certain thresholds, depending on jurisdiction). While we won’t dive into finance details here, the lower cost can provide flexibility in how you account for and depreciate the asset, potentially improving financial metrics.

Of course, maximizing ROI with refurbished motor controls requires that you choose good-quality reconditioned products and maintain them well. A failure at a critical time can hurt ROI, which is why we stress buying from reputable sources and performing proper upkeep. When done right, however, the equation often tilts strongly in favor of refurbished: you achieve the needed motor control functionality and production output for a much lower investment. Companies frequently report that refurbished drives or starters perform indistinguishably from new ones in their processes – meaning the only difference is the money saved.

In conclusion, from a cost/benefit perspective, refurbished motor controls are worth it in many scenarios. They deliver substantial upfront savings and can provide reliable service that generates revenue, thus yielding a high return on the dollars spent. By calculating not just the purchase price but also the avoided downtime and deferred costs, it becomes clear that the economic case for refurbished equipment is often very strong. Every operation will have its own considerations, but it’s certainly worthwhile to evaluate the refurbished option as part of a financially savvy asset procurement strategy.

FAQ: Common Questions about Refurbished Motor Controls

Q: How do refurbished motor controls work?

A: A refurbished motor control works the same way a new one does – it performs the identical function of starting, stopping, or regulating an electric motor, except it isn’t brand-new. When a motor control (be it a starter, contactor, or VFD) is refurbished, all of its components are repaired or verified to ensure they operate correctly. Once installed, the control will handle the motor’s power and signals just as a new unit would. For example, a refurbished VFD will vary the motor’s speed according to the input commands, and a refurbished starter will safely energize the motor and provide overload protection. The key point is that refurbishment should restore the device’s functionality and reliability to a level comparable to a new unit. If the refurbishing is done well, you shouldn’t notice any difference in how the motor control works in your system – it will respond and perform normally, effectively doing the job it’s designed for.

Q: Are reconditioned motor controls safe?

A: Yes – reconditioned motor controls can be very safe, provided they have been refurbished by qualified professionals and tested to meet safety standards. A reputable refurbishing process will include inspection of all safety-critical parts (e.g. verifying insulation integrity, checking that protective interlocks function, testing trip units) to ensure the device operates safely. Many refurbishers also perform dielectric withstand tests and other routine checks that new equipment undergoes, to catch any potential electrical hazards. Essentially, a properly reconditioned control should meet the same basic safety criteria as a new unit. However, the caveat is that you must acquire it from a trustworthy source. If someone “refurbished” the unit poorly or not at all, then its safety could be compromised. Always look for evidence of testing or certifications on the refurbished product. When in doubt, you can also have an independent electrical testing firm evaluate a used control for safety. But in general, refurbished controls from reputable suppliers are considered safe for industrial use, and they are widely used across industry. They often come with short-term warranties and pass industry spec tests, further assuring their safety and reliability.

Q: What’s the difference between refurbished and used motor controls?

A: The difference comes down to whether the unit has been restored and tested or not. A “used” motor control typically means it’s a second-hand item being sold in whatever condition it was last in – no guarantees, no fixes, possibly dirty or worn, essentially “as-is.” In contrast, a “refurbished” (or reconditioned) motor control has been actively processed by a seller to be put back into good working order. Refurbishing usually involves cleaning out any dust/corrosion, repairing or replacing any faulty components, and running tests to verify performance. Think of it this way: All refurbished controls are used (pre-owned) at the start, but not all used controls are refurbished. When you buy refurbished, you’re paying for the added value of someone doing maintenance and quality control on the unit before you get it. You often receive a warranty on a refurbished unit, whereas a plain used unit likely has none. In summary, used = no refurbishment, possibly unknown condition; refurbished = used but restored, tested, and verified to function (with documentation of this in many cases). This distinction is important – a refurbished motor control gives you much more confidence in reliability compared to a random used one.

Conclusion: Are Refurbished Motor Controls Worth It?

In many cases, yes – refurbished motor controls are absolutely worth considering. They offer a rare combination of cost efficiency and practical reliability that is hard to beat. As we’ve outlined, the pros (major upfront savings, quick availability, solid performance when properly vetted, and environmental benefits) often outweigh the cons (somewhat shorter lifespan, reduced warranty, and the need to vet the source) for a wide range of industrial applications. By carefully selecting quality reconditioned equipment and following best practices for evaluation and installation, companies can enjoy near-new functionality at a fraction of the price. This can translate to improved ROI, minimized downtime, and solutions for extending the life of legacy systems – all very tangible benefits for operations and maintenance managers.

Of course, the decision should be made case by case. For brand-new projects requiring the latest tech or mission-critical systems where maximum longevity is paramount, new equipment might still be the best choice. But for many other scenarios – such as maintenance spares, expansions on a budget, or replacing obsolete units – refurbished motor controls present an ideal option that delivers value without significantly compromising on quality or safety.

In conclusion, refurbished motor controls are “worth it” as long as you buy smart. The key is to work with knowledgeable suppliers and ensure the units have been properly reconditioned and tested. With that in place, you can reap the benefits of lower costs and reliable performance.

Ready to explore the benefits of refurbished motor controls for your own facility? Breaker Hunters, Inc. invites you to browse our extensive inventory of quality reconditioned motor control equipment – from starters and VFDs to complete MCC sections. All our products are tested and come with warranty support from our expert team. Contact us today for professional advice on industrial motor control options, and let our experienced engineers help you find the perfect refurbished solution to meet your needs. Save money, reduce downtime, and get your motors running with confidence using Breaker Hunters’ vetted refurbished controls. Reach out now – our experts are here to assist with any questions and ensure you get the best value in electrical motor control savings for your operation!