FROM A TECHNICAL MIND

BUSINESS: FROM A TECHNICAL MIND Extending a Printer’s Lifespan

by Tyler Hatfield

When buying a new printer, especially at current prices, you want it to last as long as possible. However, most people do not realize that home printers are rated to last only three to four years.

Factors that can affect a printer’s lifespan include the type of printer and the amount of printing done.

Laser printers, for example, typically last closer to six to nine years, even with heavier use.

If an inkjet printer is used to print only a few sheets a month, the ink will dry and clog in the inkjets, and buying new ink will not solve the problem.

The ink or toner quality also has a very large impact on printer life. This is more important for inkjets, but low-quality ink and remanufactured or recycled ink cartridges can clog or damage printheads over time.

Ink quality also is influenced by time and storage conditions, which is why ink cartridges have expiration dates. While they are not strict, and ink still can be used past its expiration, it is a good idea to check the package for the expiration date and not install the cartridge if it is more than two months past expiration.

Because there are so many factors that go into how long a printer will last, it is important to consider how much you are willing to pay and what features you really need. While that fancy printer full of options may be nice now, you may be out of luck in four years when the belts fail or the printhead clogs. It may be a better idea to save some money and get a printer without options you will not use.

There are some simple ways to help keep a printer happy in the long run.

First, spend a little extra and get the official ink or toner for the printer. Official ink cartridges and toner packs have high quality-control standards that help protect the device.

It also helps to keep a printer’s printing bits clean. For inkjets, run the built-in cleaning tools periodically to clean the printheads. After a few years of heavy use, it may be necessary to manually clean the printheads, but it is a good idea to have this done professionally.

For laser printers, check to ensure toner powder is not building up anywhere from time to time. If it is, just dust it out carefully.

In the end, it comes down to simple maintenance, just like a car that needs its oil changed regularly. If a printer gets what it needs, it will last longer and keep making quality prints throughout its lifespan.

Tyler Hatfield has a passion for technology that he would like to someday turn into his own business. He runs a small media group, hatsmediagroup.com, and works on computers on the side. He can be contacted with questions and for recommendations at hatsmediagroup@gmail.com