You can reduce the cost for printer ink, which is among the priciest liquids you buy at about $5,000 per gallon. Here’s how:
• Use Ecofont: The free font set uses less ink by essentially leaving small holes in printed letters. The font promises to save about 15 percent on ink used. Download it at ecofont.nl.
• Try off-brand ink: Many are quite good, said Andy Lippman, a senior analyst with research firm Lyra Research. If you print mostly text, use third-party cartridges. Off-brands might leave small streaks in photos, he said.
• Outsource photo printing: You can usually get cheaper prints by taking digital files to a drugstore or photo finisher.
• Refill cartridges: Several retailers will refill many models of cartridges for less than buying a new one.
• Be slow to replace: Printer software likely warns you of low ink levels long before cartridges are approaching empty, studies found. Gregory Karp, The Morning Call (Allentown, Pa.)
