How to Replace Printer Ink Cartridges

You’re printer is out of juice and is spitting out docs with half finished sentences. What do you do? Replace your ink cartridges of course. But, when you’ve got a new printer and you haven’t a clue as to how to replace the ink cartridges, well then things get tricky. Granted, the process for replacing ink cartridges will vary depending on your printer’s model and manufacture but here are some general guidelines to help get you started.

Identify the Make and Model of your Printer

First off, you need to indentify your printer’s manufacture and model number – this will ensure you buy the right ink cartridges to begin with. Most printers will prominently display this info on the front of the devices, for ex. Dell Printer E310dw or Canon’s imageClass MF227dw. If you cannot find this info easily, then check the back of your machine which should have a sticker or service tag that will include this information. You’ll want to buy compatible ink cartridges for your printer.

Check Your Printer’s Manual

If you still have the printer’s manual take a look at the section on “Replacing Ink Cartridges” or “Maintenance” for a how to. Granted, manuals do get lost which is probably why you’re reading this, that said – worry not.

Turn to the Internet!

Google is great for providing answers to your questions. If you’ve lost your printer’s manual – look up your model online and most probably there is a video or article addressing your question. There are also great support pages from printer manufacturers themselves, including:

•  Canon Support
•  Brother Support
•  HP Support
•  Dell Support
•  Xerox Support
•  Lexmark Support

General Ink Cartridge Installation Guidelines

If you’ve had no luck finding the proper steps for installing ink cartridges in your printer, here are a few general guidelines to help you through the process. The steps for most inkjet printers will be similar although details may again differ depending on your printer’s make and model.

1. Your printer should be connected to a power source and turned on. Most inkjet printers require power during the ink cartridge replacement process to move the cartridges within reach.

2. Open your printer’s access panel. With most standard inkjet printers, this means lifting up the top of the machine or opening the front of the printer. You may have to wait a moment after doing this for the cartridge carrier to move into place, (i.e.) the centre so that you can access the cartridges.

3. Remove the empty ink cartridge- some printers have a small cover that you pinch and then lift, others may have a small handle that you pry forward to release the cartridge.

4. Prepare the new ink cartridge to be installed by removing the protective tape or plastic protector on the new cartridge. If you’re unsure, have a look at the instructions on the outside or inside of the ink cartridge box.

5. Insert the new cartridge by installing it using the same orientation that the previous ink cartridge used. If there are covers to snap into place, do so.

6. Close the access panel and attempt a print test.

If all has gone well, then your printer is now ready to print. If however, you are still encountering problems then it is best to give your printer’s manufacturer a call or send them an email. Hopefully this has helped. Thanks for reading.