by Phil Zertisky
Inkjet cartridges are widely used in printers and fax machines. For most users, they are the most expensive element in producing documents and photographs. Finding quality cartridges at a discount is not difficult to do, provided you perform a little research.
Many towns have stores devoted to cartridges. Some of these offer recycled ones, some will refill your own cartridge while you wait, and others also sell new ones. The savings can be significant, particularly on recycled cartridges, over buying new ones at the local office supply store.
Many nationwide chain stores offer cartridge refilling as well. The pricing is usually a flat rate regardless of the size of the cartridge. If your printer uses a small capacity cartridge, the savings will be less than if it requires a large capacity type.
Both color and black cartridges can be recycled. There are a few types that cannot be refilled, due to a tendency to leak. The technician can advise you if your cartridge is one that should only be replaced with a new one.
Online retailers also provide inkjet cartridges at a reduced price. Their costs vary, as does their quality level. Most of them provide excellent cartridges at an excellent price. A few, however, are notorious for sending out products that are not filled to capacity. Online forums and chat rooms can help you find the best sources.
There are certain cautions you should observe when ordering cartridges online. There is sometimes a savings for multiple items purchased, either in the form of reduced unit cost or shipping. However, you need to know whether any cartridges are defective before the warranty expires.
Some people are nervous about recycled cartridges, fearing they might damage the machine. A reputable dealer will cover any repair or replacement costs should their products damage your printer or fax. Find out what the policy is on such damages before buying, and if it is strictly a case of “buyer beware” seek another source. It is rare that refilled cartridges will leak, but it can happen. If it does, you can have blotches and smears on your output which quickly spreads to your printer tray. Small puddles inside the printer are more difficult to clean up, but are less common.
Visit several different websites to compare prices on your cartridges. Be sure to include any shipping costs when determining the most economical site. Also, a handful of sites want you to return your empty cartridges, so include any postage costs for doing so when evaluating the site.
For those who want only new cartridges, check online for quantity discounts from major office supply houses. Some of these may not charge for shipping at all, while others will offer free shipping to your local store where you can pick up your order. Drastic discounts are sometimes available, particularly on less common types not normally carried in the store. And when shopping at the store, see if they offer a discount if you trade in your used cartridge when you purchase a new one. Some stores will mail you a coupon for a set amount off your next purchase, and these may not be limited to just cartridges.
No matter what type of inkjet cartridge you need, you can cut your costs dramatically. A little research and some comparison shopping can result in a significant reduction in your printing costs.
When you do a lot of printing, you are constantly hunting for affordable inkjet cartridges. Find the right inkjet cartridge for your printer today that is just like the manufacturers when you visit today!
