If smoking wasn’t bad enough for you already, it looks like there may be another good reason not to smoke, as it seems that Apple has refused to repair a broken Mac because it shows signs of smoke.
According to one Mac user who took his Mac in for repair, Apple refused to repair it because it showed signs of cigarette smoke inside, which Apple said was a biohazard, and therefore Apple employees couldn’t repair it as it could be hazardous to their health.
Apple’s Stance on Biohazards
Apple’s AppleCare warranty doesn’t specify that it won’t repair machines which show the presence of nicotine or smoke, but if someone challenges it, Apple could possibly fall back on a clause in the AppleCare warranty which covers ‘extreme environment’. This clause is typically meant to cover situations where the device has been exposed to conditions far outside the norm, such as extreme temperatures, excessive moisture, or other environmental factors that could compromise the safety of the device or the technician.
The term ‘biohazard’ is generally used to describe biological substances that pose a threat to the health of living organisms, primarily humans. In this case, Apple seems to be categorizing nicotine and cigarette smoke residue as biohazards. This is not entirely without precedent; nicotine is a toxic substance, and prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke can lead to the accumulation of harmful residues on surfaces, including electronic components.
Implications for Smokers
For smokers, this policy could have significant implications. If you smoke around your Apple devices, you might be inadvertently voiding your warranty. This could lead to costly repairs or replacements that would otherwise be covered under AppleCare. It’s worth noting that other manufacturers might have similar policies, so it’s a good idea to check the warranty terms for all your electronic devices if you’re a smoker.
Moreover, this situation raises questions about the broader implications of smoking around electronics. Cigarette smoke contains tar and other substances that can accumulate on internal components, potentially leading to overheating, short circuits, and other issues. Over time, this can degrade the performance and lifespan of your devices.
What Can You Do?
If you’re a smoker and want to protect your investment in Apple products, there are a few steps you can take:
1. Smoke Outside: The simplest solution is to smoke outside, away from your electronic devices. This will prevent smoke from accumulating on your devices and potentially voiding your warranty.
2. Use Air Purifiers: If smoking outside isn’t an option, consider using air purifiers to reduce the amount of smoke and nicotine in the air. This can help minimize the accumulation of harmful residues on your devices.
3. Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean your devices to remove any buildup of smoke residue. Use appropriate cleaning products and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid damaging your devices.
4. Check Warranty Terms: Familiarize yourself with the warranty terms for all your electronic devices. This will help you understand what is and isn’t covered, and what steps you can take to avoid voiding your warranty.
It will be interesting to see how this turns out, and if Apple ends up fixing any of these machines in the future. As more people become aware of this policy, it could lead to changes in how warranties are written and interpreted. In the meantime, it’s a good reminder of the many ways smoking can impact your life, including your electronics.
via TFTS
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