5 Critical Factors to Consider

Refill Shops & Kiosks

DiscountInk
Retail Stores

INSPECTION
Critical Factor #1: Do they test each empty cartridge for visual AND electrical defects prior to refilling?
Why this is important: Each cartridge must be free from electrical and visual defects or it may not work in your printer.

NO

YES

CLEANING
Critical Factor #2: Do they use a variety of cleaning systems (Steaming, centrifuge, flushing with reverse osmosis system, etc.) to ensure every last bit of ink is removed from the cartridge prior to refilling?
Why this is important: Cartridges that are not properly cleaned often have a shorter shelf life and result in higher failure rates.

NO

YES

INKS
Critical Factor #3: Do they use inks that are specially formulated for each type of cartridge?
Why this is important: If the same type of ink is used to refill all types of cartridges, the print quality is going to be inconsistent. You run a higher risk of having colors that don’t match, and the cartridge may not last as long as it should.

NO

YES

FILLING
Critical Factor #4: Do they have filling machines specifically designed for each type of cartridge – to ensure consistent and accurate filling?
Why this is important: It’s important that cartridges are filled with a precise amount of ink each and every time. If a cartridge has too much ink – it’s more susceptible to leaking. If there isn’t enough ink – the cartridge won’t produce an acceptable page yield. If there is air in the ink, the cartridge won’t print properly.

NO

YES

TESTING
Critical Factor #5: Once your cartridge is filled, do they print a test page to verify the quality?
Why this is important: This is the only way to verify that the colors match, and to make sure there is no smearing or streaking.

NO

YES