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.

Almost every city, and even most smaller towns, have stores whose entire inventories consist of cartridges. Most of them offer new cartridges for sale, but concentrate primarily on refilling empty cartridges. Some refill your existing cartridge when you come in, while others keep a ready supply of popular types. Significant savings can be realized, especially when compared to purchases made at a local store.

Some drug stores also have cartridge centers which provide refill services. Most of them have a set price per cartridge, regardless of how much ink is required. This can be a good buy for larger capacity cartridges, but less economical for the smaller ones.

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.

Often, the best buys on inkjet cartridges are found online. The cost may vary widely between sites, as well as the quality of the cartridge. The majority of them send out good cartridges at good prices. A handful, however, reduce the amount of ink in each cartridge and provide only half-filled cartridges. As is common when dissatisfied, customers will often post complaints against specific retailers on forums or blogs. Their comments can make it easier for you to find a reliable source.

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.

Fears of causing damage to their printers keeps some from purchasing cartridges that have been refilled. Damage seldom occurs and is usually limited to small leaks that may appear as blots on printed documents. However, since leaks can occur and internal leaks can indeed cause harm to your printer, verify what the dealer will do if it happens. Reputable dealers will replace or repair your machine should their cartridge damage your printer. If purchases are made without any form of guarantee, you should probably find another dealer.

Do some comparison shopping before you buy cartridges online. Costs and quality varies between sites, as do shipping costs. Rarely, a site will require that you mail in your empties and charge a deposit until they are received. Include any such costs in determining the best buy.

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.

Savings on inkjet cartridges can be found in person and online. With the rising costs of printer and fax cartridges, it pays to compare.

About the Author:

0 comments