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I cannot wipe my IMAC of data because it will not turn on

I cannot wipe my IMAC of data because it will not turn on. Is it safe to send back to Apple for recycling?

iMac 21.5″, macOS 10.12

Posted on Feb 1, 2023 2:45 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 1, 2023 2:58 PM

The Genius Bar can do that for you and recycle it.


I did that last year, but first; let’s try something…


According to Apple:

If your Mac doesn't seem to turn on after you press the power button, follow these steps:


  1. Make sure that your Mac is connected to AC power. If it doesn't have a built-in display, make sure that your external display is connected to power, connected to your Mac, and turned on.
  2. Press and hold the power button on your Mac for at least 10 seconds, then release.
  3. Every Mac has a power button. On notebook computers that have Touch ID, press and hold Touch ID.
  4. If you see no change on your Mac, press and release the power button normally.
  5. If your Mac now turns on but stops at some other screen during startup, follow the steps for when your Mac doesn't start up all the way.


If your Mac still doesn't turn on, get live expert assistance by contacting Customer Support by phone or chat:



Click ▶︎ macOS User Guide. 📖

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 1, 2023 2:58 PM in response to andygmom

The Genius Bar can do that for you and recycle it.


I did that last year, but first; let’s try something…


According to Apple:

If your Mac doesn't seem to turn on after you press the power button, follow these steps:


  1. Make sure that your Mac is connected to AC power. If it doesn't have a built-in display, make sure that your external display is connected to power, connected to your Mac, and turned on.
  2. Press and hold the power button on your Mac for at least 10 seconds, then release.
  3. Every Mac has a power button. On notebook computers that have Touch ID, press and hold Touch ID.
  4. If you see no change on your Mac, press and release the power button normally.
  5. If your Mac now turns on but stops at some other screen during startup, follow the steps for when your Mac doesn't start up all the way.


If your Mac still doesn't turn on, get live expert assistance by contacting Customer Support by phone or chat:



Click ▶︎ macOS User Guide. 📖

I cannot wipe my IMAC of data because it will not turn on

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