How to Replace Your Ink Toner

02/2/2010 - Computers and Technology If you own an inkjet or laser printer, it's important to know the correct procedure for changing the printer ink or toner cartridge. Regardless of what brand of printer you own, it's certain that replacement printer cartridges are available for it.

To save money, you can use what are called "compatible" toner or ink cartridges. These cartridges are made by third parties and carry a different brand name than the printer. Or you can choose to have your ink and toner cartridges refilled. Here's some information about how to change the cartridge on your inkjet or laser printer. This is a generic procedure, so be sure to refer to your printer's manual for any instructions for your specific device.

Changing an Inkjet Printer Cartridge

Perform this procedure with the printer powered up. Open the front cover. The ink cartridge automatically will slide along a horizontal rail and stop where you can easily remove it. If you have a colour inkjet printer, there will be two or more cartridges installed. Inkjet cartridges snap into carriers mounted on the rail. Some carriers have a top section that flips up. If your printer has multiple cartridges, change them one at a time. Unsnap the top of the carrier if applicable, grasp the cartridge and gently pull it forward until it unsnaps from the carrier. Remove the new cartridge from its protective packaging. Carefully remove the tape that covers the print head, being careful not to touch the print head. Snap the cartridge in place and lower the carrier cover, if applicable. Repeat this procedure for every cartridge you want to replace.

Changing a Laser Printer Toner Cartridge

Laser printers use an integrated cartridge that contains both toner and components that create the printed text or graphics. Since heat is used to fuse the image onto the paper, wait until the printer is cool before handling the cartridge. Open the front cover of the printer and slide out the cartridge. Refer to your printer manual to determine whether there's a locking lever that you need to release to remove the cartridge. Note the old cartridge's orientation. Remove the new cartridge from its protective packaging and orient it similarly to the old one. Insert gently into the printer. The cartridge should seat itself with a definite "click." Follow your printer's manual for other cleaning and maintenance procedures associated with changing the cartridge.

Final Steps

Always be sure to dispose of the used cartridge properly. You may be able to recycle it or sell it to a company that will refill it. Be sure to check your local laws to be sure you're abiding by any local or national regulations. That's all there is to changing toner or compatible ink jet cartridges for practically every type of laser or inkjet printer available in the UK.