Instead of constantly buying expensive original cartridges, you can simply refill printer cartridges yourself.
Refilling printer cartridges: explained step by step
Basically, the process for filling printer cartridges is similar, regardless of the manufacturer. However, since cartridges differ in their design depending on the manufacturer and printer model, it is a good idea to take a close look at the structure of each cartridge and, if necessary, search the Internet for specific instructions for your model.
- Prepare utensils: You will need a drill with a narrow drill bit, a syringe with a cannula, an absorbent pad, suitable refill ink and a spatula or carpet knife.
- Preparation: Place the cartridge on an absorbent surface (e.g. kitchen roll) and carefully peel off the sticker on the top of the cartridge.
- Drill hole: Drill a small hole in the hollow chamber at the top. The hollow chamber is the part of the cartridge that is above the sponge and is not filled with ink.
- Fill ink: Fill the syringe with the ink. Make sure that no air bubbles form. Now slowly and very carefully fill the hollow chamber with ink. It is important that you do not overfill the cartridge. Then seal the hole again.
- Deactivate level indicator: Disable the cartridge level indicator so that your printer does not constantly give you warning messages. Alternatively, reset the cartridge chip to be correctly informed about the cartridge level.
- Test print result: Check that the newly filled cartridge is working properly by printing a few test pages.
Filling ink cartridges yourself: What you should pay attention to
To ensure that everything goes smoothly when filling the cartridge, it depends on the choice of ink and also the timing.
- Use appropriate ink: By filling your printer cartridges yourself, you definitely save money. However, you shouldn't skimp on ink. So don't go for universal ink, but rather printer ink that is tailored to your device.
- When to refill: Do not wait until the old cartridge is completely empty before refilling it. Otherwise, your printer may end up printing streaks because the print head is sucking in air.
- Visit Ink Station: If you do not want to refill your printer cartridges yourself, find out about so-called refill shops or ink filling stations in your area.
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