Branded, Remanufactured and Compatible Printer Cartridges FAQs

Will using a remanufactured or compatible cartridge void my printer warranty?

It is against the law for any manufacturer to claim this as set out in The Competition Act of 1998. The guidelines are clear on the monopoly of consumer goods, which allows consumers free choice. If the printer breaks within the first year during the standard warranty period, the manufacturer cannot refuse to cover you because a nonbranded cartridge has been used. This is unless they can prove that a nonbranded cartridge caused the printer to break.

After 12 months, if you take an extended warranty then they may be able to refuse under the terms and conditions of the warranty. The first thing you should do is contact the manufacturer as it may be a known fault with the printer. They may ask that an independent engineer fix the issue and find the fault. If it was the cartridge then the supplier/manufacturer of the cartridge may cover this, check their warranty details. If it was the printer then the engineers report will help you to talk to the manufacturer under the extended warranty.

Do remanufactured and compatible cartridges hold the same warranties as OEM cartridges?

All cartridges that are sold through NHS Supply Chain hold warranties which can be viewed on the online catalogue or you can request this through the office solutions email.

Is there a quality different between OEM and non-OEM cartridges?

There shouldn’t be any visible difference between the cartridges unless you are wanting to carry out high volume, high quality printing (see section in brochure on the best type of cartridge for your needs).

What are the environmental benefits of each type of cartridge?

Remanufactured cartridges are produced by refurbishing OEM cartridges, however most OEM cartridges are now fully recyclable using a proper route and use environmentally friendly materials and processes wherever possible. Refurbishing an already environmentally friendly cartridge is best for the environment, however before releasing your used cartridge to this route it is wise to research the company to ensure that if the cartridge is unable to be refurbished it will be disposed of by recycling, and not end up in a landfill. Compatible cartridges in the main do not have the same research and development put into them and don’t hold the same environmental benefits, using more single use plastics. These cartridges are also not able to be refurbished so most of these cartridges do end up in landfill.

Can all printers take a high yield cartridge?

In most cases printers can take a standard or a high yield cartridge. Higher yields offer the best value for money, however there are some printers which will only take the standard yields. Unfortunately, it is hard to recognise which these are, and trial and error is the only way to find out. Alternatively, you can send Office Solutions the serial number of the printer and we can source the answer for you.

What is the difference between a cartridge and a toner?

A traditional cartridge comprises of ink and these are used in inkjet printers. A toner is used in laser jet printers. Toner is the name given to the powder inside the printer which is used instead of ink. The descriptions will advise if the cartridge is for an inkjet or a laser jet printer.