Repair or Replace a Broken Printer?
Key Questions:
- Should you repair or replace a malfunctioning printer?
- What factors should influence this decision?
- How can ManagedPrint assist in making the best choice?
When managing your fleet of printers and copiers, a time inevitably arises when you must decide whether to repair a malfunctioning device or invest in a new one. While nobody wants to waste resources on maintaining equipment that continually breaks down due to age and usage, there is often hesitancy about the cost implications of purchasing new hardware.
At ManagedPrint, we understand that making an informed decision about your fleet is crucial. In this article, we will discuss key considerations for determining whether to repair or replace a broken printer.
Factors Influencing the Decision to Repair or Replace
Age and Model of the Printer
First, consider the age and model of the printer. Is it an older model or a relatively new one? For older printers, parts may be harder to acquire, and technicians with the required expertise may be scarce. For newer models, repairs might be more viable and cost-effective.
Availability of Parts and Technicians
Some printer brands and models are more challenging to service due to limited availability of parts and qualified technicians. For instance, Kyocera printers often fall into this category in the United States. If a device is hard to repair and frequently breaks down, replacing it with a model that has better service coverage and parts availability is prudent.
Cost of Repair vs. Replacement
A general guideline is to consider replacing the printer if the repair cost exceeds 70% of the printer’s current value. For example, repairing a $300 device for $200 may not be economically sensible. Conversely, a minor issue like replacing rollers can often be addressed inexpensively, making repair the better option.
Type of Printer and Issue
Determine whether the printer is a color laser or a black-and-white laser printer. Simple issues, such as paper jams due to worn rollers, can often be resolved easily. However, more complex problems, especially with high-end features, may necessitate professional intervention or replacement.
Contract and Warranty Considerations
If your printers are under a service contract with ManagedPrint, you benefit from lower repair costs as you only pay for parts, not labor. Without a contract, repair costs can quickly add up due to labor charges, making replacement a more attractive option in some cases.
Average Cost of Printer Repair
The cost of repairing a printer varies based on whether you have a service contract and the specific make and model. Typical labor rates for printer repair range from $125 to $135 per hour. For non-contract repairs, this can result in a minimum charge of $250 to $300, even for simple issues. In contrast, under a ManagedPrint contract, repair costs can be significantly lower, often between $50 and $100, as labor is included in the service agreement.
ManagedPrint’s Approach to Printer Repair
ManagedPrint offers a comprehensive approach to printer maintenance, focusing on minimizing downtime and ensuring cost-effective solutions. Our service contracts include on-site technician visits at no additional labor charge, ensuring your fleet remains operational with minimal disruption.
Why Choose ManagedPrint?
- Nationwide Support: We have a network of qualified technicians across the USA, ensuring timely and efficient service regardless of your location.
- Expertise: Our technicians are trained on a wide range of printer models, ensuring accurate diagnostics and repairs.
- Cost-Effective Solutions: With our service contracts, you save on labor costs and benefit from our expertise in managing and maintaining your printer fleet.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to repair or replace a broken printer involves evaluating several factors, including the printer’s age, the cost of repair, and the availability of parts and technicians. ManagedPrint provides the expertise and resources to help you make an informed decision, ensuring optimal performance and cost-efficiency for your printer fleet.
Ready to make an informed decision about your printer fleet? Contact ManagedPrint today to discuss repair options, replacement solutions, and comprehensive maintenance plans tailored to your business needs.
