If you are not sure what to look for when buying a refurbished photocopier, here is my guide to help you.
The difference between used and refurbished photocopiers
Before we get into what to look for, it’s a good idea to talk about the difference between used, refurbished, re-conditioned and ex-showroom photocopiers. All of these terms could be used to describe a multi-function printer or photocopier that isn’t brand new out of the box.
Firstly, I'm assuming you already know what type of machine and features you are wanting; A4/staple finisher/scanning etc (we’ve written a blog about choosing a multifunction printer if not!).
When photocopier manufacturers develop and build new machines, they legally have to supply parts for at least 7 years from the last date of manufacture. So, in theory, buying a not-new machine shouldn’t be a problem.
Ex-Showroom Photocopier
An ex-showroom machine should be in the current range (you can still buy this new if it’s still being manufactured). It should have minimal prints on and be in ‘as new’ condition. We will sometimes sell on an ex-showroom device to make room for other equipment or if we have heard that there is a new model in the pipeline.
Refurbished or Reconditioned Photocopier
This is a machine that should have been fully stripped to the frame, and all parts inspected. Any part that is faulty is replaced, and any consumable with less than 50% life left is also replaced. Then, it is reassembled with new and proven good parts.
Firmware will be updated and all patches done. Also, any technical bulletins/modifications from the manufacturer will have been implemented. A full system check is completed, with all functions tested. Recalibration of the prints and print quality should be the same as a new device.
Reputable companies will offer a guarantee, like our Platinum warranty.
Used or Second Hand Photocopier
A machine sold as used or second hand hasn’t necessarily been refurbished fully (or to a good standard). It’s important to establish the age of the device, the number of prints it's done and its provenance (where did it come from). A machine bought off Ebay isn’t going to give you the same confidence as an ex-lease machine.
The lifecycle of refurbished photocopiers
Typically, a multifunction printer should last for years if serviced and looked after properly. So, if you’re considering buying a machine that isn’t brand new, it’s important to understand the life cycle of “not new “devices.
The machine model age and number of prints already done is an important starting point.
As I said earlier, machines have guaranteed parts availability for at least 7 years from the last date of manufacture (usually longer in practice). As a company, we don’t usually like to offer devices that are older than 3 years (we always offer a 5 year platinum guarantee with all our refurbished machines).
Factors to consider with a refurbished photocopier
The number of prints already done on the machine should also be a factor of consideration. There is a range of total print volume that the manufacturers recommend that the different models are good for.
For example, a Konica Minolta C251i has a life of 800 thousand prints, whereas the Konica Minolta C451i has a life of 1.8 million prints. As a company, Copy Print Services wouldn’t offer for sale a machine that has done over 400 thousand.
Also for consideration is that this machine will have to interface with your other IT infrastructure, and sit securely on your network. As machines age, the manufacturers will eventually stop updating firmware and print drivers which allow secure printing and scanning. So, a machine that is still mechanically fine but is now 8 years old may stop communicating properly on your network.
The final point to consider is the support that the device will undoubtedly need over the next few years. Is the service company able to support you in a timely and reliable way? Do they carry parts and consumables locally? Do they employ service technicians in your area?
To summarise:
Has the device been refurbished properly?
Will the machine last for the next few years based on your current projected print and scan volumes?
Can the company supplying support you?
If you need any help or would like to talk through any of this, please get in touch with our friendly team.
