A broken printer can be a disruptive experience, interrupting your workflow and productivity and causing frustration. If the device is frequently breaking down or its overall performance is slowing, you may be wondering whether you should schedule printer repair or just replace the device altogether. Below, learn how to tell when you need printer repair and when you need a total replacement.

Repair

If the printer is less than five years old, it likely has a lot of life left in it. Fixing issues or finding replacement parts will be easier and more cost-effective than replacing the whole unit. But if the device is more than five years old, parts will be harder to come by, and the required repairs will be more complex than they would be with a newer model.

Also, consider the type of repairs the printer will need. Some issues are fairly easy, routine fixes, such as changing fusers, rollers, and transfer rollers. Have a printer repair professional identify the cause of the malfunction, and if it's something that's part of routine maintenance or just a minor glitch, you probably don't need to purchase an entirely new device.

Replacement

Replace a printer if the total cost of repairs and labor exceeds the cost of buying a new unit. You might also want a replacement if the device is breaking down with greater frequency. This often happens with age. 

Once printers pass the five-year mark, they start to become obsolete, and the technology isn't as fast and efficient as it once was. Think about replacement if major parts—like the circuit board, print heads, or paper feeders—are routinely failing.

If your current printer is not keeping up with increased demands, it's time to replace it with a newer, faster model. Considering how often a printer is utilized in day-to-day work life, a new one is an investment in the efficiency and success of the business.

When you need printer repair in Staten Island, NY, or anywhere in the five boroughs, contact Alpha Laser Richmond Corp. Since 1993, they have been providing printer and copier repairs and print management services. They also sell toner and ink cartridges for all major brands of office equipment. Call (718) 317-1263 or visit their website to request a quote.