When your trusty printer hits a snag, the big question arises: “should I repair it or replace it?” In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through the decision process. Hopefully, this will help you find the option that suits your needs and budget.
Table of Contents
Assess the situation
- Weigh the costs: Balancing the labor costs against potential benefits is essential for making a financially wise decision.
- Age Matters: When a printer reaches the end of its functional lifespan, operating expenses can rise due to the availability (or unavailability) of parts and the expertise required to fix it.
- Factor in toner and consumables: If you require higher print volumes, it is good to consider the price and your current stock of toner and other consumables.
- Consider your initial investment: Comparing the initial cost of your printer with the repair expenses helps gauge whether repair costs are proportionate to the printer’s original value.
Repair vs. replacement: The decision
The case for repair
- Cost: If the rates are reasonable and lower than replacing your printer, then repairing your printer is the economical choice.
- Familiarity: If you’re accustomed to your printer’s functions and interface, there is no learning curve when repairing your current printer.
- Sentimental value: If your printer holds significance due to its history, a repair can keep it in service longer.
- Toner and Consumables: If you have a large stock of toner and consumables for your current printer, repair may be a good option to use it up.
- *Pro tip!* Proper maintenance can extend your printer’s life and save you money.
The case for replacement
- Cost: If the printer requires significant repairs or multiple replacement components, the total expense may exceed the price of a new printer.
- Advanced features: If you require features like wireless printing, higher print speeds, or others, a new printer can provide with added functionality you want.
- Warranty and support: New printers often come with warranties that provide peace of mind. Manufacturers’ support and updates provide a smoother printing experience.
- *Pro tip!* Refurbished printers often come with warranties without the hefty price. These are the smart choice to upgrade on a budget!
Making the right call
At the end of the day, the choice is yours. Make a decision that aligns with your needs, budget, and the longevity you want out of a printer.
netEffx: Your printer partner
No matter what option you decide, netEffx is here to assist you with your printer.
- New Printer? No Problem: If you’re leaning toward a new laser printer, we can guide you to the right fit—whether new or refurbished, monochrome or color.
- Repair with confidence: If repair is your choice, count on our technicians to get your printer back up and running efficiently, we have decades of experience!
- If you’re still not sure, speak to one of our techs. netEffx’s technicians can troubleshoot your printer and help you make an informed decision.
If your printer is having issues, give netEffx a call at 845-454-2027, or use the form below to contact a technician.
