Google Reviews Skip to main content

Common Printer Questions and Answers

At OfficeCo, we’re passionate about answering all your printing, scanning, and document management questions. Whether you’re interested in printer leasing, exploring support contracts, or figuring out how to dispose of your old machines, our Common Printer Questions and Answers section is here to guide you.

With over 20 years of experience, our founder Sam has seen the best and worst of the industry, from exceptional service agreements to those that make you cringe. We’re committed to helping businesses across Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey, and beyond make informed decisions that save time, money, and hassle.

Wondering how to settle an old lease contract or need advice on maintenance terms? We’ve got you covered. We can help you dispose of outdated machines responsibly, review your current support contracts, or simply give you honest advice on whether upgrading your equipment is worth it. Even if it’s just a question about printer maintenance, we’re happy to offer free advice.

No question is too small, so feel free to ask us anything about your printers, photocopiers, or scanners. We’re here to help you make the right choice for your business, and we hope this section provides the guidance you need.

If you have a question for us that is not covered on our site, please contact us by clicking here and will respond within a few hours.

Samuel Lay, Founder of OfficeCo

Do you offer Printer leasing?

We sure do! Why buy when you can lease and keep things as flexible as your office printer’s paper tray? We offer fixed-term leasing options ranging from 12 to 60 months, perfect for businesses that want top-notch equipment without the upfront cost. Whether you need a sleek desktop printer or a multifunctional beast that can scan, print, and practically do your coffee run, we’ve got the right fixed-term option for you.

A little caution though—be mindful of secondary rentals when it comes to printer leases. Remember, a lease rental means you’re spreading the capital cost of your machine over an agreed period, typically 12 to 60 months. It’s important to understand what you’re paying for and to avoid getting caught in any unexpected traps with second-hand machines.

Leasing gives you the freedom to use high-quality equipment without the long-term commitment of ownership. Plus, we’ll handle the maintenance, so if something goes awry, you can sit back, relax, and let us work our magic. It’s like having your cake and printing it too—just on a fixed-term plan, and with total peace of mind!

Do you offer support contracts on existing or older Printers, Photocopiers or Scanners?

Absolutely! Just because your trusty old printer has been with you through thick and thin doesn’t mean it deserves to retire quietly into the paper jam-filled sunset. We offer comprehensive support contracts for existing and older printers, photocopiers, and scanners, ensuring your beloved office equipment keeps chugging along without a hitch.

Our support contracts cover regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and expert advice tailored to extend the lifespan of your equipment. Whether you’re clinging to a classic model or managing a fleet of seasoned machines, we’ve got the skills to keep everything running smoothly. Plus, with our friendly team on hand, you won’t have to suffer through the frustration of unexpected breakdowns alone.

So, let us handle the nitty-gritty technical stuff while you focus on what you do best—running your business. Because even old friends deserve a little extra TLC!

Can you turn off the beeping on machines?

Quiet Machines = Happy Office?

Yes, we can turn off the beeping, though our machines might not appreciate being told to hush! 😊

Our products also have volume control just incase you do like to know a button has been pressed.

Are we able to remove blank pages on scanned documents?

Our fantastic range of Sharp Printer/scanners come as standard with the ability to remove any blank pages from your scanned docs – after all……..who wants to read a blank page?

Do you sell paper?

We do indeed, and the very best that the paper mills have to offer! Visit our e-shop for our full range:

www.officeco.tech/eshop

How can I search for certain words on a PDF scan?

By using a good OCR engine, which exists on our Foxit PDF editing software which can turn any PDF into a readable, searchableand editable Word or Excel document.

Can my new shiny printer make the coffee?!

Unfortunately not, our printers can’t brew coffee (yet!), but they’ll definitely impress with their printing prowess!

We can however recommend the best coffee supplier in the Country, they provide the fuel that keeps us going at OfficeCo:

https://roasted.co.uk

Can I print from my phone?

Print on the Go: With our range of machines, printing from your Apple or Android device is a breeze. Plus, we can assist in managing printing from multiple mobile devices.

Our Printer Support & Service Questions

Do you recycle used toner cartridges?

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: We’re committed to sustainability. With our Platinum cover package, we provide used toner recycling boxes collected directly from your office for onward recycling. Stay green while focusing on your job!

How quickly do you come out for Printer problems and repairs?

We know that when your printer goes down, your stress levels go up! That’s why we pride ourselves on being as fast as a photocopy sprinting through its last print job. Typically, we aim to be at your doorstep within 3 working hours if you’re local to Hampshire and have a machine you can’t use at all—because no one should suffer from a paper jam any longer than necessary!

We understand that printer breakdowns can bring your office to a standstill, so our engineers are always ready to spring into action. With 20+ years of experience in the field, we’ve become experts at diagnosing and fixing problems before that “out of paper” warning drives everyone mad. Quick, efficient, and with a smile (and sometimes a coffee in hand), we’re here to get you back to business.

What happens if my printer is unusable for a period of time?

First of all, deep breaths—it’s not the end of the world (even though it might feel like it when that “Out of Order” sign appears!). If your printer decides to go on an unexpected holiday, we’ve got you covered. Our priority is getting you back up and running as soon as possible, but if your printer needs a longer “spa day” in the workshop, we can provide a loan machine to keep your office flowing.

You won’t have to resort to writing things out by hand like it’s the 1800s! We’ll ensure that any downtime is minimised, and your business doesn’t skip a beat. Plus, with our trusty engineers on the case, your printer will be back in action before you can say “printer jam.”

Do you charge for Printer toner deliveries?

Nope! We wouldn’t dare! When it comes to keeping your printers running smoothly, we believe in delivering toner with a smile—and without a charge. If you’re in our local area (lucky you, Hampshire!), we’ll whisk your toner to your door faster than you can say “low ink warning” at no extra cost.

Just think of us as your office’s secret toner ninjas—quiet, efficient, and ready to strike when your printer needs a refill. So, while you focus on business, we’ll keep you stocked up, and there won’t be any sneaky delivery fees hiding in the fine print.

Can you help us dispose of old/used Printers, Photocopiers and Scanners?

Absolutely! We’re not just experts at getting your office equipment working, we can also help give your old machines a proper send-off. Whether it’s a printer that’s seen more paper jams than we can count, or a photocopier that’s been scanning like it’s stuck in 1999, we’ll take care of it.

We handle the safe and environmentally-friendly disposal of your old office equipment, ensuring that your unwanted printers, copiers, and scanners are recycled according to all the proper guidelines. After all, no one wants to see a photocopier haunting the office storeroom like a ghost of print jobs past.

And don’t worry—we’ll even handle all the heavy lifting, so you can focus on running your business while we take care of the tech that’s past its prime. Plus, it’s one more reason your office manager will love you!

Pricing will vary depending on the size of your ageing machine, but we promise to be completely transparent and share any quotes from our supplies for the collection & disposal.

If I choose to buy a printer from you, how long would it take to delivery & install it?

First of all, excellent choice! When you buy a printer from us, we aim to get it delivered and installed faster than you can say “out of toner.” Typically, we’ll have your shiny new printer delivered and fully installed within 3 to 5 working days. And if you’re in the Hampshire area, you might find us at your door even sooner.

But it’s not just about delivery—we love to work closely with our clients to make sure the printer is customised exactly to your needs. Whether it’s setting up user preferences, configuring workflows, or just making sure it prints those all-important documents without a hitch, we’ve got you covered. On installation day, we’ll provide detailed training, so you’re ready to hit the ground running.

We don’t stop there either. Once you’ve had some time to get used to your new toy (or should we say, essential business tool), we’ll come back for a return visit to fine-tune things and provide any extra guidance you need. That way, you’ll be a printing pro in no time!

No fuss, no hassle—just smooth, customised printing from day one.

Support Contracts

Why do I need a service contract for my photocopier/Printer?

Having a service contract for your photocopier is essential for several reasons: 

  1. Maintenance and Repairs: Photocopiers, like any other piece of equipment, require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. A service contract typically includes preventive maintenance visits by qualified technicians who clean, inspect, and repair any potential issues before they escalate. This helps minimize downtime and ensures consistent output quality. 
  2. Extended Lifespan: Regular maintenance provided through a service contract can extend the lifespan of your photocopier. By addressing minor issues early and keeping the machine in good working condition, you can avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. 
  3. Maximized Productivity: Downtime due to equipment malfunction can significantly disrupt workflow and productivity. With a service contract in place, you have access to prompt technical support and repair services, reducing the impact of downtime on your operations. 
  4. Expertise and Training: Service contracts often come with access to manufacturer-certified technicians who possess specialised knowledge and training in servicing specific photocopier models. Their expertise ensures that your machine is handled with care and repaired efficiently, minimizing the risk of further damage. 
  5. Cost Savings: While service contracts involve upfront costs, they can lead to long-term savings by reducing unexpected repair expenses. Instead of paying for repairs on an ad-hoc basis, a service contract provides predictable maintenance costs, making it easier to budget for operational expenses. 
  6. Priority Service: Service contracts often come with priority service agreements, meaning that your requests for technical support and repairs are prioritised over non-contract customers.  
  7. Comprehensive Coverage: Service contracts typically cover a wide range of issues, including hardware failures, software glitches, and routine maintenance tasks. This comprehensive coverage provides peace of mind, knowing that your photocopier is protected against various potential problems. 

In summary, a service contract for your photocopier is a proactive measure that offers numerous benefits, including regular maintenance, extended lifespan, minimised downtime, cost savings, expert support, and warranty compliance. It’s a valuable investment to optimise the performance and reliability of your photocopier while supporting your business operations. 

Do you offer 12- or 24-month contracts?

Flexible Contracts Tailored to You: Whether it’s service or leasing, we offer terms ranging from 12 to 60 months, ensuring a perfect fit for your business needs.

Do my prices increase every year?

Stable Pricing, Guaranteed: While our competitors hike prices annually, sometimes by up to 15%, we keep it steady. Our service costs remain fixed for a minimum of 3 years, and even beyond that, we consult with you before applying any changes.

Are toners included in the contract?

Included and On Time: Toners are absolutely covered in our contract, and we even offer a just-in-time delivery service powered by our secret software (shh, it’s too good to share its name! 😊) 

How long is my service contract for?

Tailored to You: Your service contract is as long as you need it to be! Many of our clients opt for an initial 12-month period, which we then review over a nice coffee 😊 

How quickly do you come out?

3 hours for emergency calls if your machine is unusable, which includes poor quality prints that are of no use to your business. Maximum of 5 hours for non-emergency calls – we also guarantee you will never have to chase us!

Can you help us to reduce our printing costs?

Absolutely! Reducing printing costs is what we love to do, and we make it easy with our FREE print audits. Here’s how it works: we come in, monitor your print volumes over a few weeks, and assess your current toner and ink costs. Once we’ve gathered the data, we provide you with a detailed report highlighting opportunities to improve your current setup and, above all else, reduce your costs.

One thing we often find is that Desktop Printers, while cheap to buy upfront, can be expensive to run. Those toner and ink costs can sneak up on you over time, especially if you’re doing more printing than expected. We can help identify if there’s a more cost-effective solution for your office, whether it’s upgrading to a more efficient machine or adopting smarter printing practices. Of course, it all depends on how much printing you actually do—but that’s exactly what we’re here to figure out.

With our Managed Print Services, serving businesses in Hamsphire and surrounding counties, you’ll gain control over your printing habits, ensuring you’re only printing what’s necessary and keeping those costs in check. So, if your printing budget is vanishing quicker than your office biscuits, let us step in and help!

Is there a minimum charge per month?

Minimum Monthly Charge? Just £30 + VAT. This ensures top-notch customer service while also keeping our OfficeCo cat, Poppy, well-fed! 😊 

Leasing Equipment

Leasing or purchasing a photocopier/printer – what is the best option for my business?

Leasing: 

  1. Lower Initial Costs: No upfront payments making it more cash flow friendly 
  2. Predictable Payments: Lease payments are quarterly and fixed, so you can budget accordingly. 
  3. Upgraded Technology: Leasing allows you to regularly upgrade to the latest photocopier models, ensuring you have access to cutting-edge technology without the hassle of selling or disposing of outdated equipment. 
  4. Tax Benefits: Lease payments are often tax-deductible as a business expense, providing potential tax benefits. 

Purchasing: 

  1. Long-Term Cost Savings: While purchasing requires a higher initial investment, your overall cost would be lower since you won’t be paying interest on a lease. 
  2. Asset Ownership: Purchasing gives you outright ownership of the photocopier, allowing you to depreciate the asset over time and potentially claim tax deductions. 
  3. No Contractual Obligations: Unlike leasing, purchasing means you’re not tied to any fixed and long-term contractual agreements. 
  4. Potential Equity: As you pay off the photocopier, it becomes an asset that can add value to your business or be sold if needed. 
  5. No Credit Checks: Purchasing doesn’t typically require credit checks or financing approval, simplifying the acquisition process. 

Considerations: 

  1. Budget: Evaluate your financial situation and determine whether a large upfront payment for purchasing or lower monthly payments for leasing align better with your budgetary constraints. 
  2. Usage: Assess your photocopier usage patterns. If you anticipate needing frequent upgrades or have fluctuating printing needs, leasing might be more suitable. If your usage is stable and predictable, purchasing could be more cost-effective in the long run. 
  3. Future Plans: Consider your long-term business goals. If you foresee significant growth or changes in your operations, leasing offers more flexibility to adapt to evolving needs. 
  4. Total Cost of Ownership: Compare the total costs of leasing versus purchasing, factoring in expenses like maintenance, repairs, and potential upgrades over the equipment’s lifespan. 

Ultimately, the decision between leasing and purchasing a photocopier hinges on your specific circumstances and financial position.  

Fear not though, we are here to provide all the details and total costs of both options to help you make an informed decision. 

What are secondary rentals on my lease agreement?

Secondary Rentals Explained: 

After the primary lease period ends, secondary rentals kick in. This means you’ll continue making payments to the leasing company. While reduced quarterly rentals may seem beneficial initially, be aware that you might end up paying for the equipment again. By the end of the primary period, the original cost of the equipment is typically covered, with both the leasing company and supplier profiting from secondary rentals, while the equipment remains the same. 

Let’s Break It Down: 

    Original capital sum/purchase price of Equipment = £5,000 

    Calculated Quarterly lease rental, over 3-year period = £495 per quarter 

    12 quarterly payments over 3 years, primary period only, totaling = £5,940 

    At this point, the machine has been paid for! 

    Secondary rental at the same rate per quarter = £495………………… 

Why do I have to pay an annual service fee on my lease rental agreement?

Most lease rental agreements will insist on an annual service fee, charged at the anniversary of each year that the agreement is active – the fee can range from anything between £150 & £300 !!  

Our lease agreements ONLY have an initial admin fee of £150 + VAT, no annual fees as we told our leasing partner they just don’t work for us our clients! 

Haven’t found your answer?…


Our Chosen Charities