5 Tips On How To Care For Your Ink Cartridges

Your ink cartridge costs can skyrocket depending on the frequency of replacement. Many people might consider refilling expensive when refilling ink cartridges cost way less than replacing them if done in the right way. So, when a product is this important yet expensive, it is only fair to use it appropriately. 

Therefore, we have brought tips on how you can take care of your ink cartridges. Following these tips, you can maximize the efficiency of your ink usage and cut down ink costs too. So, without any further ado, let’s get the engine rolling!

5 Best Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Ink Cartridges

The ink cartridge care is not limited to during usage care but before installation and after usage care is also very critical. So, let’s see the top five ways in which you can make sure you use the ink cartridges to the fullest. 

1. Before Installation Care

Before installation care of your cartridges is very important to get good results. Before removing any of the plastic wrappings, it is advisable to shake the cartridge. This will make the ink smooth and remove any clumps in it. 

Apart from handling them carefully, you also need to be very cautious when removing the plastic wrap. The cartridges are packed in plastic wrap which needs to be removed carefully. Moreover, you will see a plastic clip at the bottom or top of the cartridge. In HP cartridges this is the orange-colored clip while in Epson it is yellow. Removing this clip will unveil a vent hole. This clip should also be removed very steadily so that you do not spill any ink. It is advisable to unwrap the cartridge over a sink or bin so that you do not get any ink spills on your clothes or floor. 

When unpacking the cartridge, you will notice a gold contact chip. This chip is what makes the contact between the cartridge and the printhead and hence it should be clean. However, even if the chip gets a fingerprint during the handling, you will get an error message from the printer on installing the cartridge. The best way to keep it clean is to wipe it with a lint-free cloth or Q-tip before installing the cartridge. 

Lastly, make sure your cartridge is not spilling from any side.

2. Ink Cartridge Installation Care

After you are done priming the cartridge, it is now time to install it. Before going for the installation, make sure that you have the new cartridges ready. This is because exposing the printhead to air for long can clog its pores which can eventually lead to a need for replacement. Installing the cartridges in their respective slots will ensure the smooth working of the printer. This means that colored ones go in the colored slot while the black cartridge goes in its respective slot. 

For installation, you first need to turn off the printer and wait for the printhead to come to a rest. After that, install the new cartridges. You might need to push a bit. Once you hear the CLICK sound, this means that your cartridge is installed. Now, close the top cover, turn on the printer, and click OK on the printer’s screen for it to start working. 

For different printers, there might be a big difference in their cartridge installation process. However, the general method is the same as described above. 

3. Taking Care Of The Cartridges When In Use

The best way to take care of your ink cartridges and the printer is to keep them in use. This means that you should not leave the printer unused for days. This can dry the ink cartridges and limit your printer’s efficiency. 

Moreover, when your printer gives a low ink message, it is good to check the ink levels manually too. Chances are that the cartridges will still have about 30% ink in them which can be used to print several pages. 

4. How To Store Ink Cartridges In The Right Way?

Going out every time to buy a new ink cartridge is certainly hectic. Therefore, it is only fair to buy ink cartridges in bulk especially if you use the printer regularly. However, if you do not buy the cartridges in bulk, we would suggest that you do. This is because a bulk purchase will cost less than buying individual cartridges and many sellers give out a discounted package on bulk purchases. 

So, once you have bought your cartridge supply of the year, now it is time to store it in such a way that the ink does not clog. Below are some tips for storing cartridges. 

• Do not store in a very warm or very cold space. Store them in the dark.

• Keep the cartridges upside down unless you have to use them.

• Do not remove any packaging or vent hole clip when storing the cartridge. 

• If you are storing a partially used cartridge, then cover the nozzle with polythene and tighten it with duct tape. Make sure that the ink inside is not exposed to air. 

• Do not store a cartridge beyond its expiry date. 

5. What Is The Right Way To Dispose Off The Cartridges?

When you are running out of ink, refilling the cartridge sounds like a good idea. However, it is not if you do it wrong or use low-quality ink. Therefore, in such a situation, it is good to go with the cartridge replacement option. You can recycle old cartridges and play a role in reducing your carbon footprint. 

However, it is always good to have an auto-replenishment subscription so that you do not have to worry about buying the cartridges every single time you run out of ink. 

To Wrap Up

Ink cartridges can cost you a lot if you do not use them sensibly. Taking a few measures to use the cartridges in the right way will not only make them last longer but also save you a lot too. Therefore, follow the tips above and get the most out of your ink cartridges.