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Ink ReStore Consumer FAQs

 
About Cartridges
What is an OEM cartridge?
What is an ink refill kit?
What is a remanufactured cartridge?
How much money can I save by using remanufactured cartridges?
Is your ink as good as the original cartridge?
Is it difficult to remanufacture cartridges?
Will using remanufactured cartridges void my printer warranty?
What is a compatible (or generic) cartridge?
How long is the shelf life of your cartridges?
How many times can I have my cartridge remanufactured?
Are your inks waterproof?
Does my printer require maintenance and periodic cleaning?
 
About Buying from Ink ReStore
Can I purchase remanufactured cartridges in bulk quantities?
What if I have a problem with an Ink ReStore remanufactured cartridge?
Can I set up an account with your company?
 
 
 
Ink ReStore FAQ Answers
About Cartridges
What is an OEM cartridge?
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. Usually these products are made by one company and then the manufacturer's name (such as HP, Epson, Canon, etc) is put on the product. These are the "name brand" products you find at most computer stores. They are usually expensive, but are generally of good quality.
What is an ink refill kit?
An ink refill kit consists of ink bottles, syringes, and an air balance clip. Refilling is simply the process of injecting ink from the bottles into your existing cartridge. The air balance clip is used to balance the air inside your cartridge, assuring that ink will flow from the cartridge head immediately upon printing. Results from using these kits are mixed and don’t recommend “self filling.” Customers often have bad experiences with refilling themselves and then believe that only OEM cartridges are good. This not true as a properly remanufactured cartridge will meet or exceed the performance of an OEM cartridge.
What is a remanufactured cartridge?
A remanufactured cartridge is a cartridge that has been disassembled and its worn parts replaced. The print heads are tested for damage and defects. If the cartridge parts are okay, then it is refilled with ink or toner and is tested in the factory to guarantee print quality. It is basically the recycling of an empty cartridge to meet or exceed OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specifications of quality and reliability. Remanufacturing is considered more comprehensive than recharging or refilling.
How much money can I save by using remanufactured cartridges?
Depending on which cartridge the savings can be substantial. You can expect to pay about 60% of the suggested retail price of a new OEM cartridge.
Is your ink as good as the original cartridge?
Ink ReStore inks are formulated to exacting standards. They are as close to the original ink as you can get without violating the patents. Many of our inks are actually better than the OEM because we improved the formulation where it was needed. We have different formulations for each type of ink.
Is it difficult to remanufacture cartridges?
Each cartridge has its own level of difficulty. It is important to have the right equipment and training to make sure a customer gets a cartridge as good or better than the original. Ink ReStore has equipment, expertise, and quality processes that assure you a great cartridge at considerable savings.
Will using remanufactured cartridges void my printer warranty?
No. Manufacturers of Ink Jet Printers depend on the revenue generated by their overpriced supplies to offset the loss from the original printer sale. They practically give the printer away and make it up when you need a new cartridge. Read your warranty carefully if you are concerned…you will notice the printer manufacturer uses very carefully worded statements when referring to remanufactured cartridges. The bottom line is if one of our cartridges ruins your printer and it is definitely established that the cartridge is clearly the cause, we will replace your printer.
What is a compatible (or generic) cartridge?
Compatible (also referred to as generic) cartridges are made to meet or exceed OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specifications of quality and reliability. Manufactured 100% brand new, with all new parts, they are an economical alternative to name-brand cartridges. There are certain cartridges that cannot be remanufactured economically and Ink ReStore maintains a stock of high quality compatibles for those printers.
How long is the shelf life of your cartridges?
Our cartridges have the same shelf life as new cartridges, as long as it’s kept in the recommended environment for a new OEM cartridges. You should keep them out of the direct sunlight and at room temperature. It is good practice to rotate your inkjet cartridges using the oldest first.
How many times can I have my cartridge remanufactured?
Each one seems to have its own personality, however, the norm is 4 to 6 times. You can definitely have your cartridge remanufactured MORE times if you do it right away before it dries out. If you can't get it to Ink ReStore right away, seal the printhead or the holes with scotch tape and store the cartridge in a ziplock plastic baggie and try to remove all the air before sealing the bag. Once you bring it to us, we will check it over to make sure it will perform to your and our expectations.
Are your inks waterproof?
Our inks match the OEM formulation almost exactly. If the OEM ink is waterproof, then so is ours. Generally the inks are NOT waterproof. Dye based inks are not waterproof and pigmented inks are.
Does my printer require maintenance and periodic cleaning?

Your printer's print head cleaning utility (described in your printer's operating manual or on the manufacturer Web site) should always be run 1-2 times after inserting an OEM or remanufactured cartridge. The most frequent failure with either an OEM cartridge or a remanufactured cartridge is a dirty printer.

If you prefer to have your ink jet printer cleaned by one of our technicians simply bring it by any Ink ReStore retail store. Often we can do it while you wait but always call first if you want to wait.

 
Second FAQ Category
Can I purchase remanufactured cartridges in bulk quantities?
Absolutely. Ask an Ink ReStore consultant for our volume buying discounts.
What if I have a problem with an Ink ReStore remanufactured cartridge?
All we ask is that you give it an honest try. If you follow the directions supplied with our cartridges, your cartridge should perform like a new one. We know that, from time to time, a cartridge will not meet your expectations whether a new OEM cartridge or an Ink ReStore cartridge. In the unlikely event that happens, we stand behind our product both with advice on solving the problem as well as our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If you have a problem we will make it right! Our help line is open during regular store hours or you can email us at customercare@inkrestore.com.
Can I set up an account with your company?
We accept Purchase Orders from Schools, Government agencies, and business customers with approved credit. We accept Visa and Master Card.
 
 
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| 2403-2 Battleground Ave. | Greensboro NC 27408 | (336) 288-5551 Toll Free (866) 336-4INK (4465) | Email |