Mistakes People Make When Choosing Lab Equipment
A lab can only be as successful as its equipment allows. Without the right equipment, laboratories hamstring themselves before they can even get started. The problem comes from the fact that getting the right equipment for a scientific lab can be extremely difficult. There are so many variations on the same equipment that buyers need to be extra wary as they search for supplies. Here are some common mistakes people make when choosing lab equipment that could lead to worse results.
Not Confirming Its Functions
If you’re planning to buy a new piece of equipment for a laboratory, the chances are high that the piece has a very specific function that you need it to perform. Most specialty lab equipment has one or two major functions, and you can’t assume that everything you look at will have what you need. If you’re ever unsure about what the new equipment actually does, it’s up to you to contact the manufacturer. You don’t want to end up with a useless piece of equipment in your lab.
Forgetting About Space Concerns
A lot of lab equipment is bulky and takes up a lot of space. Laboratories aren’t known for their vast amounts of open space, so size is always a concern. If you’re buying a new medical freezer, for example, make sure you thoroughly measure where you want it to go to ensure that it can fit. A piece of equipment that won’t fit in your lab will only end up costing you more money in the long run, so it’s a good idea to know your constraints.
Sacrificing Quality for Savings
One of the most egregious mistakes people make when choosing lab equipment is only focusing on the price rather than the quality. While it’s no secret that lab equipment is expensive, there’s a reason you don’t want to cheap out on it. A lower price might seem attractive, but it won’t be worth it when the lower-quality equipment breaks down faster or needs replacement sooner. Your best long-term solution is to focus on quality rather than how much you can save right away.
Buying Outdated Technology
The tech world moves faster than many others. New technology comes out faster than most people can even keep up. This makes it difficult to know that your machine won’t be obsolete in a few short months. If accuracy and results are what you focus on the most, you’ll want the newest versions of equipment for your lab. You don’t need to constantly replace equipment, but when you do, replace it with the most modern version of your equipment.
