One of the most overlooked factors when looking at which dtg printer to buy are the Technical Support and Warranty Programs. Make sure that you get a written copy, whether on paper or in an email, of the Support and Warranty programs that each printer offers. Please do not just rely on a verbal conversation with a sales person.
Almost every dtg owner that I have talked to has needed some type of technical support at one point or another. Just like some people learn in school differently, people need to have a different level of technical support. dtg Manufacturers can provide support in any one of the following ways: email, telephone, online user forum, videos and onsite services. You will need to determine what methods are the best methods for providing technical support for your business and find a dtg manufacturer that offers that type of support.
BUSINESS TIP: Every dtg owner should understand that there are times when a technical support person can’t immediately be reached by phone and in some cases are in a different time zone. Having either the dtg manufacturer or distributor close to you can definitely be a benefit. Otherwise, network with other dtg owners in your area or via an online user forum that might be able to assist you.
Some of the dtg manufacturers either offer training at their facilities or a distributor’s facility for new customers. I recommend to any company that is going to purchase a dtg printer to go to this training – whether it cost money or is free. The information that you can learn at this type of training can save you hours of headaches and potential prevent you from having to spend additional money replacing parts on your printer. If no training is offered at a central location or a place convenient for you, ask to see how much it would cost to have someone do the training at your place of business. Here are some posts about training classes:
- Brother - http://www.screenprintinguniversity.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=4354
- DTG - http://www.inkjetgarmentprinters.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=1638
- Flexi-Jet - http://www.screenprintinguniversity.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=1835
- US Screen - http://www.inkjetgarmentprinters.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=2826
There are some key things that you should be aware of when looking at the warranty programs for the different dtg printers. Most dtg manufacturers will warranty most of the parts of the printer for some period of time. Some manufacturers will even offer an exchange program that will allow you to switch out a non-working dtg printer with one from the manufacturer. Whatever the warranty program is, make sure you thoroughly understand what is covered under the warranty and for how long. In addition, know what if any events could cause your warranty to be voided.
MAINTENANCE WARNING: Don’t be surprised if the print head(s) are excluded from the warranty. The print heads are a consumable part that needs to be handled with care. A head strike or failure to perform the appropriate maintenance can cause damage to a print head that would require it to be replaced.