Buying a Reconditioned Tanning Bed – Always Check Under the Hood

Posted on: June 10th, 2013

When buying reconditioned, used tanning beds, it is crucial to always be very thorough.

Just the same as if you were shopping for a used car, you should always take the time to “kick the tires” and “check under the hood,” when buying used tanning beds, solicited as reconditioned.

​Promises of reconditioned-quality will vary from supplier to supplier, so it is essential to know for yourself, just what you’re getting.  To do this, a good supplier, who has nothing to hide, should be more than accommodating and should never take offense to you wanting to take a closer look.  The seller should understand that you are just trying to protect your interests.

And if you are too far away to visit the supplier’s warehouse, where he stocks his used tanning beds, you can always request him to email you photos or even an inspection sheet, detailing any flaws or imperfections.

When examining a reconditioned, used tanning bed in person, here are a few suggestions that might be of help:

First, a great way to estimate the amount of usage a bed or booth may have is to examine the system’s end sockets.  These are the plastic lamp-holders on both sides of the bulbs that keep them in place. Since they rarely need changed, and reconditioning will almost never require full replacement, the usage of a device will almost always be apparent from the discoloration of the sockets.  The more yellow a socket is, the more usage the device has likely had.  End sockets that are virtually orange and feel very dry will often indicate a much higher level of usage that the device has been through.  Only in the rare case that end sockets are made of ceramic, (mostly older systems), or have been coated with some UV-impervious materil, will discoloration not occur, or be extremely minimal.

Second, if the cover or hood of the systems you are examining can be easily lifted, you could request the supplier to raise the panel so you can look inside of the device.  If provided the opportunity, you should look for dust build-up, burn marks, damaged wires, broken glass fragments or other debris or irregularities that would indicate that the device has not been thoroughly cleaned or serviced, internally.  In that event, red flags should go up immediately as to just how “reconditioned” a system really is.  In the event that a hood cover can not be raised without creating a supplier’s nightmare, you could always use a flashlight to look into any fan or vent holes along the outside of the cover panel, if available, to see if any irregularities are noticeable internally.

Third, always examine the system’s plexiglass carefully and completely for “spider-cracks,” scratches, and other flaws.  Scratches may not be apparent at first, but a closer study that reveals a series of them, especially where a person’s hands often lay while tanning, are usually deep scratches cause by diamond rings and bracelets.  These are permanent and will never come out.

Fourth, look closely at the ends of the lamps for black marks.  If you see some, the lamps will almost certainly have been used for more time than just testing.  Confirm with the seller, and get it in writing, as to whether or not he is including new lamps, (that may have only been used for testing), or used lamps. A good, reconditioned, used tanning bed should always include new lamps that have been fully tested within the device.  One thing to note, as lamp phosphors and cathodes have improved throughout the years, it is not always possible to confirm that a bulb has been heavily used by looking for black marks.

Fifth, if possible, have the supplier turn the system on so that you can get a sense of the fan speed. Good fans should operate at about the same speed, so if one or more of them sounds, or appears, to be running slower than the others, it could be an indication of an older fan.

Sixth, always test the lifting and closing of the canopy.  Some systems are designed strictly to lift-up all the way and lock, and then lower to the fullest extent and stop.  Other manufacturers have designed their equipment to hold steady at any level, to which the canopy is placed.  But it is crucial that a canopy is not too difficult to raise and lower, and that when it reaches its lifting peak that it stays up without falling.

​Last, carefully examine any touch pads, buttons, or switches.  Extreme wear on these items are common, especially for older units.  Under circumstances where noticeable wear, scratches and fingernail cuts are visible, they should always be replaced by the supplier, to be a true, reconditioned system.

​For more information about No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas reconditioned used tanning beds, please call 424-281-7918.

Used Tanning Beds Reconditioned

​Posted on: December 22nd, 2012

What qualifies for a good, reconditioned, used tanning bed or med-spa system?

In today’s hustle-them-in, hustle-them-out standards for reselling used machinery, it is very common for some suppliers to use shortcuts in their approach to taking a used piece of equipment, calling it reconditioned, and redistributing it back into a commercial industry without ever really doing anything to create a truly “reconditioned” system.

But one company has specialized in taking the word “reconditioned” to a whole new level.  No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas has been perfecting the art of refurbishing used tanning beds and med-spa equipment for over 25 years.  Using their 5-point reconditioning program, No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas leaves no stones unturned in converting a noticeably used tanning bed or med-spa system into an immaculate piece of equipment with not only a “like-new” appearance, but also with performance standards that are equal to, if not better than that of brand new.

No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas technicians thoroughly disassemble and clean all of their “reconditioned” tanning beds and med-spa systems internally, as well as externally, along with replacing any inferior components, and perishable items, such as lamps and filters.  And when evaluating plexiglass, mattresses, foam pillows, or other degradable components, No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas 5-point program requires that anything that does not have a “like-new” appearance, or that may have cracks, tears, or other flaws must be replaced.

Adding to that, No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas thoroughly tests and evaluates all systems for air flow, output, ignition, and continuity to ensure that their reconditioned systems are fully reliable when received by their consumers.  And to show their confidence in what they sell, No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas offers both a parts and service warranty with all of their reconditioned devices.

​For more information about No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas reconditioned used tanning beds, please call 424-281-7918.

Used tanning beds or open a tanning salon in PA, MD, NJ, DE, or WV

Posted on: December 15th, 2012

Are you considering the purchase of a used tanning bed, or are you looking to open a tanning salon in the states of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, or West Virginia?

If so, look no further.  For over 26 years, No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas, of Dover, Pennsylvania has been perfecting the 3 S’s for the tanning & med-spa industry… Supply, Service and Support.

In its early years, No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas specialized its operations almost exclusively in the states of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, and West Virginia.  And today, although the company is a national distributorship, with locations all over the United States, its original 5 states still remain No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas foundation.

“We’ve grown nationally, over the past decade, and have earned many new accounts with whom we’ve become very close.  But throughout all the years of running my company, it’s the original five states in which we have the greatest loyalty,” expressed Rick Brockley, owner of No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas.

“The main reason that the Mid-Atlantic region is higher in its volume with us, is that we can provide more ‘hands-on’  service,” Rick added. “And since we can better reach out to those clients, within a reasonable driving distance, we’re capable of giving them a higher level of support that other suppliers cannot.  Also, I’ve found over the years that many distributorships are focused primarily on lotion or equipment.  My company offers not only both of those, but a much wider variety of other support programs and supplies, ranging from service and med-spa equipment to t-shirts and eye wear.”

​Although No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas offers such diversity in its design, its greatest strength may be its ‘reconditioned tanning beds.’  “We offer a 5-point ‘reconditioning process’ that I believe is the best in the country today,” Rick commented.  “We take pride in producing money-saving pieces of equipment that arrive to our clients not only looking shiny-new, but with a level of performance that is equal to, if not greater than that of brand new; new tanning beds that would have cost buyers thousands of dollars more!”

For more information about No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas reconditioned used tanning beds, please call 424-281-7918.

Why Used Tanning Beds can be a much better choice

Posted on: December 2nd, 2012

Are you thinking about buying a tanning bed for your home or small business?

If so, there are many things to consider before making your purchase.  But perhaps, in today’s marketplace, more important than any other factor, is the question of whether or not the tanning bed you are looking to buy should be a new system or a used one.

To better understand the true nature of choosing between the two, you must first recognize not only the cost of buying a new system, but also the tremendous loss in value you face the minute you remove the device from the packaging.  Most high-quality, new sunbeds will range in price from $7,000., up to $40,000.   And although it’s always nice to have something brand new, smart shoppers understand that tanning equipment technology has had little change over the past decade.  As a result, most tanning beds, designed since the early 2000’s, may be relatively equal to the technological applications being used today.  Then, there is equitable loss.  Almost everyone has heard the old car adage: “it loses half of its value the moment you drive it off the lot.”  Well, the same general rule-of-thumb applies to tanning beds, but the depreciation can be so much more.  Most owners would probably agree that a $10,000. sunbed, brand new, would be lucky to bring $4,000. on an almost immediate resale, after its been removed from the container and turned on for the first time.

So, if you understand why it may be a better choice to go with used tanning beds, let’s proceed to what a buyer should look for in second-hand equipment.

First, in the used categories, there are “As-Is” tanning beds, there are “Fully Reconditioned” tanning beds, and then there is everything in between.  Just knowing that you have located the exact “used” unit that you want, at a great price, may not be a good thing.  It is crucial that a buyer knows the true nature of the device that he or she is seeking, as well as the terms that go with the sale.  What constitutes a “Fully Reconditioned” system? For instance, will it include internal cleaning and a thorough inspection?  Will brand new lamps be provided?  In what shape are the acrylics?  Is there a warranty with the purchase? These are just some of the questions that need to be addressed when seeking a truely reconditioned device.

Next, one of the most important factors, to avoid the pitfalls of a disastrous purchase for any used system, is to know the seller.  Sellers with superior reputations are the most likely to provide the highest quality equipment, with the best support programs after the sale.  Quality sellers are more reliable in living up to what they claim, as well as in standing by what they have sold, even long after the transaction is completed.  Are these sellers willing to provide you with legitimate references, to whom they have sold used tanning beds in the past?  What is the seller’s current Better Business Bureau rating, and do they have any complaints against them?

Third, what type of equipment are you seeking?  One of the greatest strengths of buying a used tanning bed, versus a new one, is that you are afforded a much more advanced system at a price point that would have otherwise been equal to a much lesser-performance device, purchased new.  So, always do your research, and ask your seller for recommendations.  A good seller will try to meet your needs, not just sell you what he has in stock.

Lastly, what should you pay for a good, “Fully Reconditioned” system?  This, of course will depend on the seller, but the rule-of-thumb is around 40 to 60 percent of the original MSRP, (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price).  Usually, the  more expensive the system, the greater the discount from the list price.  Also, the more work, costs and warranty support a seller offers for a used tanning bed, the higher final price. That, of course, is just common sense.  So be careful if a price point seems too good to be true.  Often times… it is!

No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas has been specializing in “Fully Reconditioned” used tanning beds for over 25 years.  If you would like to contact them with questions, they can be reached at 424-281-7918.

Building a Successful Tanning Salon

Posted on: November 19th, 2012

How can I develop a successful tanning salon start up?

For those individuals, looking to start their own salon, this is the single, most important question to ask about the tanning industry.  And over the past 30 years of its existence, there have come many changes, and many new ways of approaching a tanning salon start up.

Around 3 decades ago, when tanning salons were on the rise, profits were large and equipment was small.  Today, with increased costs to run a salon, profits have shrunk, while the equipment just keeps getting bigger and bigger.

So just how does an owner create a successful tanning salon?  The answer to this is multi-faceted.

First, it is more crucial now, then ever, to not overspend to develop a profitable salon.  Unless the owner is independently wealthy, and can easily afford $250,000. to $300,000. in cash, only then might that make sense.  But for most of us, taking on debt of that size will almost always be a “deal-killer.”  Obtaining that large of a loan, in this economy, is highly unlikely, and having the monthly costs of such debt will most certainly strain the owner with a tremendous monthly burden.  But it does not have to be that way!

No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas learned in 2008, after the economic crash, to find a better way to supply its existing clientele, as well as those looking to do a tanning salon start up, by drastically reducing the costs for the bigger equipment.  Units that would sell, brand new, for $10,000., $20,000., $30,000. and even $40,000. can be purchased, virtually as good as new, from our company for as little as $4,000.  The savings are massive and the quality is basically equal to that of new, and will enable a salon to be competitive, while still giving an impressive presentation to its customers.

Another crucial factor, No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas offers to those entrepreneurs, looking to do a tanning salon start up, its 26 years of experience to advise and counsel them to avoid some of the many, serious pitfalls that often lead to a salon’s early demise;  pitfalls such as:  signing a contract for a bad location, agreeing to an impractical rent rate, not having the right amount of electrical supply, or having the wrong equipment for the demographic… just to name a few.

And what about the correct room size?  Rooms too small will restrict the caliber of equipment an owner can have, and will often make users feel “claustrophobic.”  Rooms too big can waste space to such extents as to sacrifice other profitable rooms that could have been built, thus costing owners tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars  in revenues, over the years ahead!

Add to those mistakes the wrong ways to borrow money, the incorrect information and support to give to builders and electricians, not planning for other necessities in the salon to accommodate certain needs, such as retail product shelving and a functional desk.

Again, a hopeful owner can avoid these types of pitfalls simply by contacting No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas.  They have been helping some of the most successful salons in the country to get their start.  And best of all, the support programs that No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas offers, to those looking to do a tanning salon start up, can be completely free!

For more information, call 424-281-7918.

Starting a New Tanning Salon

Posted on: November 15th, 2012

Are you thinking about opening a tanning salon or med-spa business?

No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas can help.  For over 26 years we’ve been assisting “would-be” salon owners with a more simplified way to develop a lucrative tanning salon, supplemental beauty business, or day spa.  We make the seemingly-overwhelming process easy, and we help take the guesswork out of the tedious stages of planning.

Here are just 10 factors essential for hopeful entrepreneurs to determine, when developing a business in this exciting field.  First, what area, (near where I reside), is best suited for a new tanning business? Second, what do the demographics for that region tell me about the kind of salon I should be opening?  Third, what should I be planning to do to beat the competition?  Fourth, how large should a typical salon be, to be profitable, but without wasting money? Fifth, what is considered a good structural design and location for the building in which my business shall operate? Sixth, what is a reasonable rent rate for me to pay for the space I’ll be in?  Seventh, what type of equipment and services should I offer, within the new salon, to give me the best return for my investment?  Eighth, how should my floor plans be laid out to best accommodate my goals without wasting space? Ninth, how should I go about getting financed for all of this? Tenth, what electrical supply will be necessary to accommodate all of my needs?

These are just some of the types of questions that need to be carefully considered to avoid the pitfalls of poor planning.

Sound complicated?  It doesn’t have to be.  That’s where No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas comes in.  We will answer these questions along with many others, to remove the burden from you, the owner.  We can help you to meet the needs of these vital issues, necessary to succeed, and guide you through the entire developmental process.  Our 26 years of experience have enabled us to create a simple and easy means to assist our clients in establishing a well-planned business, that offers the highest rate of success.

For more information, give us a call at 424-281-7918.

Published by Virgo Publishing

Posted on: December 2nd, 2009

“As-is” / “no warranty” equipment purchases versus reconditioned

With today’s stressed economy, more salon owners and start-up operators are moving away from purchasing new equipment and focusing their investment capital on used. And although this is a great way to dramatically reduce developmental costs, one important question needs to be asked… “Exactly what are you getting for your dollar?”

Be careful about your choices.

For many buyers, the decision process is complicated enough. Trying to choose the right brand name, which levels of tanning are best, what units feature the most in comfort and simplicity, which systems assure reliable performance…? These are just some of the issues to be considered. But in the final analysis, after your money has been spent, and it is too late to change your mind, what will you end up owning? Was your purchase a wise investment or simply the transference of someone else’s headaches? Receiving sunbeds, medspa devices, or other equipment that ultimately turn out to be problematic or damaged can turn your choices into nightmares. And how much additional costs will you incur to make things right?

Some of the risks of “as-is” or “no warranty” buying.

Systems that are being offered “as-is” or with “no warranty” generally represent devices that are either being flipped by a salesman, who has little knowledge about the condition of each unit, or a salon owner who has reason to want to be rid of his possession. This will almost always mean that the equipment has not been cleaned or repaired, either internally or externally, which can often leave buyers with several dilemmas: blocked filters and poor air flow – cracks, scratches, dents, discolorations, or noticeable marks resulting in poor presentation to prospective customers – the need to replace perishable components – or even, in some cases, the need to identify and repair concealed electrical or mechanical problems that show up sooner or later. So, should a salon owner or start-up operator roll the dice and buy used, “as-is” or “no warranty” equipment and take the risk of so many uncertainties; or are there better options for purchasing quality systems, at dramatic savings, that offer devices in “like-new” condition with the guarantees and assurances that smart shoppers are seeking? The good news is that there are better alternatives!

There are countless risks that go with “as-is” or “no warranty” purchases. Here are just a few:

#1- Equipment being bought from salons that are closed or from suppliers looking to “flip” systems will generally never include any assurances whatsoever. If there are any visible or concealed damages, electrical issues, and/or mechanical irregularities, it will be the responsibility of the buyer to invest whatever additional sums of money are necessary to fix those problems. And sporadic failures are the worst. They can create a “domino-effect” of troubles in a system, over a longer period of time, which can lead to ridiculous expenses for a buyer. And because they occur inconsistently, they are often very hard to pinpoint, which means they could go unresolved for years.

#2- These devices are almost never cleaned, re-painted, or refurbished in any way. And with the importance of presentation to prospective clients, a shoddy appearance or “paint brush finish” can discourage new customers from signing up with your salon. Also, dust build-up can be extremely problematic. Blocked air passages and vent ducts along with decayed or missing baffles can cause overheating, ultimately resulting in user discomfort and component failure.

#3- Buyers who unwittingly purchase equipment that may be under legal dispute or filings, could face possible risks of UCC lien litigations, civil lawsuit claims, property actions and/or other legal entanglements, possibly resulting in court orders that can actually claim and seize the equipment, without any remuneration to the buyer whatsoever!

#4- In almost every case of “as-is” purchasing, many perishables or performance parts, such as lamps, fans, pumps, nozzles, etc. exhibit some signs of extreme wear and are often in need of replacement soon after the purchase. How much more spending will this add to your bottom line, especially with regard to the cost for parts? And how much will you have to pay for a “good” technician, who really knows how to fix the more technical problems; especially if that person lives a day or more away from you?

#5- How will you get the devices safely to your location? Will the seller properly pack your equipment and will the trucking company insure your shipment fairly, against damages? In most instances, salon owners and other sellers will not have retained the original packaging, in which the system was first freighted. As a result, they will have to makeshift some method to attempt to get the device to you, in one piece. Can you be certain that they are reliable and will they remember to include all of the components that you need

#6- Who will be responsible for setting up and servicing the devices? Unless the seller of the equipment ensures delivery and installation, this burden almost always falls upon the buyer. If any devices are damaged in shipping or improperly installed, severe impairment may result, creating yet another buyer’s nightmare. Very rarely will a seller, providing an “as-is” or “no warranty” deal, take any responsibility with regard to problems, especially after he has collected full payment.

The benefits of reconditioned equipment with a warranty and customer support.

Reputable suppliers that specialize in reconditioning equipment will almost always be a better option for purchasing used systems. And although the pricing difference for the purchase will usually be higher, (versus “as-is”), the benefits far outweigh the costs. Properly reconditioned equipment, from a reputable supplier, whether it is a sunbed, hydration system, body wrap device or the like, will generally include:

#1- A reliable warranty ranging from 30 days to one year, to ensure buyers that the equipment is in good order.

#2- A thorough dismantling of the device enabling the supplier to perform a thorough, detailed cleaning, repair, and component replacement on both interior as well as exterior aspects. And in the event that repainting is necessary, a professional supplier will always use pressurized systems and UV impervious material to eliminate irregularities A reconditioned system should always look as good inside as it does outside.

#3- A guarantee against any legal actions that may have been leveraged against the equipment, prior to the buyer’s purchase. And certainly, if the supplier is well established, they will likely be around to support the buyer against any unforeseen actions, encumbrances or litigations that could possibly arise over a period of years.

#4- A thorough testing of the devices for certain performance qualities such as output, air flow, engagement of various mechanical and electrical mechanisms, among a consortium of other things. In the end, the unit should look and perform like new, and in some cases, where improved lamps, parts, nozzles and the like are used, the system may work even better than new.

#5- High quality packaging and shipping options for all equipment, or even offer complete delivery and installation! The seller should be responsible to insure all outbound shipments against damages and assist the buyer with any claims. And in every case, good suppliers will either service their own equipment, or offer fair compensation and technical support to servicemen in the buyer’s area, throughout the warranty period. Any device problems after the sale, while still under warranty, directly resulting from component defect should be the responsibility of the seller, not the buyer!

#6- Quality installation and/or support in getting all equipment installed, setup and tested. A reputable supplier should always provide the adequate service and support after the sale as well. If reconditioning is done properly, it will be the virtual equivalency of buying a new unit, with just some prior usage.

Know the supplier’s reputation. It can be the difference between a smooth and successful investment and an exasperating ordeal.

The last and most important factor is to know the supplier with whom you are negotiating. What quality and effort have they really applied to the refurbishing process? What is their reputation in the industry? What components have they replaced in your intended purchase? How well do they stand by their warranties? Do they offer installation along with either delivery or shipping? How good do their systems look up close? Do they have a showroom of equipment in a temperature-controlled environment, or are the units kept unassembled in unheated and un-cooled storage facilities? Will they open up a unit for you to inspect internally if you choose to visit… or will they forward photos of a device’s interior? Are they willing to give you at least three references that you can contact, for purchasers to whom they sold “reconditioned” units, (that are not salons that they own)? What variety of options do they offer in equipment selection and replacement components, such as lamps? Will they include timers, buck boosters, and other peripheral items with the purchase? Are they willing to find and recondition devices, specially ordered, specifically for you? Do they offer consultation and support for equipment selection as well as helping start-up investors get off the ground? Can they provide you financing for their used systems? These are just some of the questions that you should be asking. If a supplier seems resistant toward giving answers to these types of questions, it may mean that they have something to hide. No amount of research is ever too much.

Finally, after you have determined the right company with which to work, and the equipment best suited for you, be sure to get everything in writing. It should include the exact identification and models of the reconditioned systems, total costs for all equipment, labor, shipping, any peripheral items, etc., along with terms of payment and no hidden fees. Also, the proper addresses for the parties involved and the specifics regarding the warranty are a must.

In the end, if your supplier has done a good job and your choices were prudent, you will find that you have not only saved an enormous amount of money, for virtually “good-as-new” equipment, but your equitable value shall remain very high. Remember that from the minute you install a brand new system, you have reduced its value by at least half, as a rule! Whereas, with properly reconditioned systems, you have only paid about half or less of the costs for new, so your investment dollar retains far greater value.

No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas, Announces Expansion

Posted on: April 13th, 2009

No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas has announced expansion plans.

The company began as a regionalized distributorship, focusing its center of attention on a range of about four states. But as times in the industry have changed, and distributorships have dramatically decreased, No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas has decided to broaden its range of business in hopes of bringing its excellent customer service and competitive spirit to the 25,000 salons who may be in need of new support and ideas.

​“We believe that we offer innovative ways for salon owners to grow their businesses cost-effectively and can help reduce their risks of failure,” says Rick Brockley, president of No Money Down Tanning Salons and Spas, “Along with our proud representation of the ProSun line for commercial tanning, we provide a wide variety of used equipment, including fully restored ‘like-new’ used models as well as ‘sold-as-is’ units. We are also planning to expand on our rental programs and option-to-buy contracts, which drastically reduce the dangers of large investments for our salon customers in this uncertain economy. It’s our goal to enable salon owners to make smart investments that generate new income and profits, while minimizing financial hardships and risks.”