Running a Google Ads campaign for a laptop or PC repair business can be an effective way to reach customers searching online for repair services. However, the laptop repair industry faces unique challenges when advertising on Google Ads. Due to Google’s policies on third-party technical support, there are specific restrictions that you need to be aware of to run successful campaigns for repair services.
Hi there! I’m Govind Singh, and I’ve been running Google Ads campaigns for third-party laptop repair businesses for over six years. It’s been a wild journey navigating Google’s ever-changing policies and figuring out how to get ads approved when “repair” is practically a forbidden word! If you’re in the laptop or PC repair business, you probably know the struggle of trying to advertise online, only to run into restrictions that seem like a dead end.
But don’t worry—I’ve learned a few tricks along the way, and I’m here to share them with you. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to create a Google Ads campaign for a laptop repair business that actually works within Google’s rules. We’ll talk about what’s allowed, what’s not, common myths, and some dos and don’ts that can make a big difference. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to set up a compliant, effective ad campaign—and if you need a hand, I’m here to help with campaign management, too!
Let’s dive in and make Google Ads work for your repair business.
The Challenges of Google Ads for Repair Businesses
Google has a strict third-party technical support policy that impacts how repair businesses can advertise on their platform. This policy prohibits ads that promote “services for repairing, maintaining, or improving third-party products.”
- Restricted Keywords: Google restricts certain keywords that contain the term “repair” about technical support, such as “laptop repair,” “computer repair in cityname,” or “PC repair near me.”
- Third-Party Technical Support Policy: Google Ads does not allow ads for third-party tech support services because of previous misuse and policy violations. This means that general tech support terms may also trigger ad disapprovals, especially if they mention troubleshooting or technical fixes.
In other words, Google doesn’t allow businesses to advertise their laptop, computer, or device repair services directly through Google Ads. This can be frustrating for repair shop owners who want to reach potential customers online.
Can You Run Google Ads for Laptop Repair or Any Other Repair Industry?
Yes, you can, but you’ll need to work creatively within Google’s guidelines. By focusing on what you can advertise and steering clear of restricted keywords, you can still create effective campaigns that bring in leads for your repair business.
Despite these restrictions, there are still ways to effectively use Google Ads to market your repair business. You just need to get a little creative with your approach.
Do’s and Don’ts for Google Ads in the Repair Industry
DO:
- Focus your ads on your broader services and expertise, not just specific repair services.
- Highlight your certifications, qualifications, and years of experience.
- Emphasize the quality of your work and customer service.
- Use location-based targeting to reach people in your service area.
- Showcase your positive reviews and testimonials.
- Offer promotions or discounts to attract new customers.
- Use more neutral wording, like “Laptop Services.”
- Highlight fast service, certifications, or same-day service to make your ad stand out.
DON’T:
- Don’t use “repair” or “repairing” terms directly. Avoid phrases that include “repair,” “fix,” or “technical support” to prevent ad disapprovals.
- Make claims about being able to fix or repair specific makes/models of devices.
- Imply that you can provide technical support for third-party products.
- Use images of open laptops, computer hardware, or other devices being repaired.
Common Myths About Google Ads for Repair Businesses
Myth 1: I can’t advertise my repair services on Google Ads at all.
Reality: This isn’t entirely true. While you can’t directly promote your repair services, you can still use Google Ads to market your broader business and expertise. You can run ads for repair services as long as you play it smart… or, you know, avoid getting your account suspended! LOL 😜
Myth 2: Google Ads are too expensive for small repair shops.
Reality: Google Ads can be cost-effective, even for small businesses – If you don’t run it wisely. By carefully targeting your ads and optimizing your campaigns, you can get a good return on your advertising investment.
Myth 3: I need to be a Google Ads expert to run a successful campaign.
Reality: While having some Google Ads knowledge is helpful, you don’t need to be an expert to get started. There are many online resources and tools to guide you through the process. Or you can hire freelance google ads specialist like me.
Myth 4: Only Large Businesses Get Ads Approved.
Not true at all! I’ve actually seen big companies get their Google Ads accounts suspended and vanish from search results overnight. Google doesn’t play favourites—whether you’re a large or small business, everyone has to follow the same rules to keep those ads up and running.
Yes, large businesses may get some extra benefits (I’m not sure, but I feel like they do) from Google Ads support, since Google generates more revenue from them. They probably get more guidance and priority, but that doesn’t mean the rules are any different for them. Everyone has to play by the same set of rules to avoid getting the dreaded suspension!
Tips for Running a Successful Repair Campaign within Google’s Rules
- Focus on Your Expertise: Instead of emphasizing specific repair services, highlight your overall expertise, qualifications, and the high-quality work you provide.
- Leverage Location-Based Targeting: Use Google’s location-targeting features to reach people searching for repair services in your local area.
- Showcase Your Positive Reputation: Highlight your positive reviews, testimonials, and customer satisfaction to build trust with potential customers.
- Offer Promotions and Discounts: Use special offers, discounts, or promotions to incentivize new customers to choose your repair business.
- Use Assets (formally Ad Extensions): Use assets such as call, sitelinks, structure snippets, callouts, and images in your ads. These allow you to add more business details, which can make your ad more clickable without requiring restricted keywords.
- Monitor and Optimize Your Campaigns: Regularly review your Google Ads performance and make adjustments to improve your targeting, ad content, and overall campaign effectiveness. Adjust keywords and ad copy if you notice disapprovals.
Final Thoughts
Setting up Google Ads for a laptop repair business can be tricky due to restrictions. However, with the right approach, you can reach potential customers without violating Google’s policies. Be creative with your keywords, ad copy, landing page and follow Google’s guidelines closely, and highlight what makes your service unique.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get your repair business noticed, I can help manage and set up your campaign to maximize your reach while staying within Google’s policies. Contact me today to get started on your Google Ads campaign!
