Extended Warranties for Your ID Printer
This is a very important topic, because your ID printer is an investment, and you want to make sure it’s protected. To help our customers better understand this topic, we’ve put together an overview of some of the basic aspects of printer warranties and what they cover.
Keep in mind; even if your warranty has expired, the A Plus ID tech support team provides troubleshooting and support over the phone. If you have any issues with your printer, just call us at (866) 433-9737.
What Does a Warranty Cover?
When considering a warranty for your printer, it’s important to keep in mind that each manufacturer will differ as to the specifics of what they will cover. Further, some manufacturers offer extended plans that don’t just extend the coverage period but also broaden the number of issues covered.
Let’s look at some of the standard warranty plans first:
- Hardware: Most manufacturers offer some sort of standard limited warranty for the ID printer hardware. This will cover most of the printer parts, and the coverage period usually falls somewhere in the one – three year range. Direct-to-card printers typically have shorter warranties, because the print head is more likely to become damaged due to constant contact with the printed card surface.
- Tech Support: Technical support gives you access to the manufacturer’s technicians, to help you troubleshoot any ID printer issues in case of any problems. This type of support is typically quite limited, and only lasts a few months. The idea is that within the first few months you will have learned how to use the printer and will be able to resolve issues on your own.
However, here at A Plus ID we don’t want you to be stuck with difficult technical issues. If you have any issues at all, please give us a call at (866) 433-9737, as we offer phone support, regardless of your warranty status.
We offer free troubleshooting even if you didn’t buy the printer from us!
Extended Warranties
If you’d like to protect your printer for a longer period of time, some manufacturers offer special extended warranty plans. These can last for up to five years from the date of purchase, and can be very valuable, especially for organizations that print a lot of cards.
What about Accidental Damage?
Standard warranties typically do not cover accidental damage. However, some manufacturers will offer a more complete care package that will cover accidental damage.
This can certainly be more expensive, but this is a wonderful option for organizations that move the printers a lot or take them on the road (read tips on protecting your printer while traveling).
If you’re moving your printer around a lot, getting an accidental damage protection plan can prove to be invaluable. But this is not the only scenario where such coverage is helpful.
Organizations that print ID cards for patrons (like visitors to a venue) can also benefit from an accidental coverage plan. Customers will often walk up to the service desk with a cup of coffee, or maybe they’ll have little kids running around. Eventually, someone may either spill liquids on the printer, or the printer may accidentally fall. Having accidental damage protection in such situations can protect your investment.
If you’re considering an accidental damage protection plan for your ID printer, give us a call, and we will help you select the best option for your needs and help you understand what the plan covers.
Don’t Forget Loaner Printers!
Many organizations that purchase extended warranties forget to consider their need for a loaner printer. This is the same idea as having rental car coverage on your auto insurance plan. If something goes wrong, and you still need to print ID cards, you’ll want to have a warranty that provides you with a loaner printer while your device is being repaired.
Free Advice!
If you’re considering an extended warranty plan, or if you have questions about your current coverage, please give us a call and we’ll help answer your questions. You can reach us at (866) 433-9737, or email us at sales@aplusid.com