Five Tips for Canon Printer Ink Cartridges

Ink cartridges are one of the most costly consumables in many households and offices. There are tried-and-tested ways to save money on printer cartridges but you may end up spending more if ink cartridges have to be replaced more frequently due to avoidable damages. Faulty ink cartridges could also cause damage to the printhead. It's easy to check, handle, and then install ink cartridges. We will be sharing the top five ways to maintain your ink cartridges in this blog post.

TIP #1: HOW TO CARE for YOUR INK CARTRIDGES PRIOR TO INSTALLATION

It's easy to install an ink cartridge. All you have to do is insert it in the appropriate slot on your inkjet print. It's a good idea, however, to refer to some guidelines before installing an Cannon Ink Cartridge.
Before you insert the inkjet cartridge, make sure to inspect it for any damages. Make sure the ink cartridge's plastic pull tab or clip (found on older models) is securely fastened. First, remove any plastic tape covering the clip and vent hole.

Next, shake the cartridge thoroughly. This is necessary to prime the ink. You can also gently tap the cartridge on a hard surface several times.

Finally, check the gold contact chip that is usually found on the ink cartridge. This electrical component is used to gather data about the current ink levels. You can accidentally touch the gold contact chips or see any dirt, impurities, or scratches. To wipe it clean, use a lint free cloth.

TIP #2: HOW DO YOU CARE FOR YOUR INK CARTRIDGES INSTALLATION?

Different models of inkjet printers have different methods for installing cartridges. Refer to the instruction manual for your printer. You can also find a PDF version online if the manual is not available. You can also watch a YouTube video showing how to install a cartridge. Just type in your model number and search.

It should be easy to insert the ink cartridge. You should not force the cartridge in, as you could damage the contact point, or worse, the printhead.

Before you install or remove an ink cartridge, make sure to turn off the printer. To turn off the printer, press the power button. This allows the printhead's protection against drying to be restored.

If your printer does not read a newly installed ink cartridge, please refer to our 'troubleshooting printer cartridge' section for quick information on how to fix this issue.

TIP 3: HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR INK CARTRIDGE WHEN STORAGE IS OVER?

Not buying ink cartridges in bulk even when you print frequently is one of the common printer cartridge purchase mistakes many people make. Printzone offers multi-packs that can help you save up to 20% on ink replacement costs. If you order a multi-pack of 10, you will get 2 cartridges for free.

Once you have the extra cartridges you need, it is important to know how to store them. These are some guidelines to help you store and protect your ink cartridges for your printer.

• Keep spare ink cartridges sealed in an airtight container until you are ready to use them. If you take a cartridge out of its packaging, and it sits idle for a while, the ink may dry, especially if there is plastic tape that has been removed from the vent.
• Ink cartridges should be stored vertically with the nozzle facing up. If cartridges are stored on their sides, ink may shift to one end. This can impact the quality of your printer's output.
• Ink cartridges should be kept in a cool place.
• To store an ink cartridge that is partially used, cover the nozzle with polythene. This will create an airtight area. If necessary, wrap duct tape around the cover of polythene.
• Ink cartridges can't be kept for indefinite periods of time. Pay attention to the expiry date. It's usually printed on the label, or listed in the online product description.

TIP #4: HOW TO CARE for YOUR INK CARTRIDGES WHILE THEY ARE IN USE

To keep ink flowing, print at least 2 pages per week/fortnight. Ink cartridges and nozzles can become clogged if an inkjet printer is not used for a long time.

Don't pull out your ink cartridge when you see the first "cartridge empty" warning on the screen of your computer. There's a good chance that the cartridge still has 30-50% of ink. Keep printing until you see blurred lines or text in your prints.

Inkjet printers that use a multi-color ink system should have a complete set of cartridges. The cartridges can dry out from air introduced by the built-in printer head.

TIP #5: WHAT DO YOU DO WITH USED INK CREDIT CARTRIDGES

When you notice the signs that it's time to purchase a new ink cartridge, you may feel tempted to refill an ink cartridge at home. There are many DIY videos and articles on the internet that show the entire process.

It is a fact that most consumers do it wrong. They use inferior inks, which can cause poor quality output and damage to the cartridge and printhead.

Instead of refilling old ink cartridges or worse, throwing them away, it's better you recycle them and get a discount at Printzone on your next purchase. Don't just throw away used cartridges. They end up in the landfills. You can save the environment by recycling them.

FINAL WORDS

Ink cartridges that are not properly handled can cause more damage than the actual cost. You could damage the printhead, or fail to print important documents for client meetings on time. These guidelines are simple to follow and can help you save money and time in the long-term.