In a modern office, most of the work is done by phone or computer without writing things down on paper or printing out hardcopy documents. At least that is in theory. In practice, however, no matter how much we strive to achieve the efficiency of a truly "paperless office," there still is a need for printing out some information and documents to be stored as hard copies. According to Wakefield's survey, 73% of businesses owners and administrators of companies with fewer than 500 employees use their printers at least four times a day.

Do-It-Yourself vs. Professional Printer Repair

Invariably, printers break with use. Some maintenance jobs can be done as a do-it-yourself job, like adding paper or changing a toner cartridge. However, if something more serious is wrong with the printer, it is a good idea to call in the printer repair specialist. The reason is that printers are delicate yet expensive electronic machines. If you don't know what you are doing, printer repair may turn into further printer damage. The obvious signs that printer repair is imminent are consistent paper jams, strange sounds are heard when printing, or peculiar smells wafting from the unit. That is when a printer repair specialist needs to provide professional help.

Advantages of using Professional Printer Maintenance

Regular maintenance of the printer unit will prevent costly repairs or defer the need to replace the unit. If your printer has a lease contract, the unit's maintenance is usually included in the monthly fee. It means that periodically, a technician will come and look at your printer and fix what needs fixing free of charge. There is usually a clause that allows for call-outs when the printer breaks suddenly.

If you have purchased your printer, getting a professional person to repair and maintain the printer will have the following benefits. A maintenance specialist will fix the printer fast and efficiently. Your staff won't have to waste time on learning printer maintenance tasks. Your printer will always perform at its best when properly maintained. The last benefit is that proper maintenance results in fewer breakdowns and minimizes disruption to office productivity.

So, if you are unsure about whether to do all the printer maintenance by yourself or pay somebody to do it well, rather get someone to maintain your printer. In the long run, it will save you money on replacement costs when your do-it-yourself repair turns out wrong.