How to Replace an Ink Cartridge or Refill an Ink Tank

1What this lesson covers

This lesson shows you how to replace ink cartridge units in an inkjet printer, and how to refill the tanks on an ink tank printer. You’ll check which supplies your model takes, follow the printer’s own prompts to open the right door, swap or refill the ink, and print a check page. The general method is the same across brands; the exact door, lever and cartridge position depend on your model, so keep its manual or on-screen guide handy.

2Before you start

Check what your printer uses. If you’re not sure whether it takes cartridges or bottles, see printer types explained.

Find the right supply numbers. They’re listed in your manual, on the manufacturer’s product page for your model, on the old cartridge’s label, and often on a sticker inside the ink door. Match the number exactly. Cartridges that look similar may not fit or work in another model.

About compatible and refilled cartridges: many printers accept the manufacturer’s own cartridges and some third-party ones, but compatibility varies by model and firmware. Your manual and the manufacturer’s site explain what your printer supports.

3Replace an ink cartridge

1. Check which color is low. Look at the printer’s screen, your computer’s printer software or the ink level page. You should see: which cartridge needs replacing.
2. Unpack the new cartridge only when you’re ready. Ink can dry if the cartridge is left open.
3. Open the ink access door. You should see: the cartridge carriage slide to the center or one side and stop. Wait until it stops completely.
4. Remove the empty cartridge. Most cartridges release by pressing a tab or lifting a latch, then lifting or pulling them out. Your manual shows the motion for your model.
5. Remove the protective tape or cap from the new cartridge. Follow the packaging. Don’t touch the copper contacts or the ink nozzles.
6. Insert the new cartridge into the matching color slot. Push until it clicks or the latch closes. Color labels on the carriage show where each one goes.
7. Close the door. You should see: the carriage return, and the printer may run a short preparation cycle. Wait for it to finish.
8. Run alignment if prompted. Some printers print an alignment page after a new cartridge.

4Refill an ink tank

1. Check the levels. Look at the windows on the front of the tank unit. Refill when a level reaches the lower line, as your manual recommends.
2. Open the tank cover and then the cap of the tank you’re refilling only.
3. Prepare the bottle. Remove its cap and any seal as the packaging shows. Many bottles are shaped so each one fits only its own color tank.
4. Fill the tank. Insert the bottle into the tank opening as shown in the manual. Many systems fill automatically and stop when full; don’t squeeze the bottle unless the instructions say so.
5. Close the tank cap, then the cover. You should see: the level window show the new level. Some printers ask you to confirm the refill on the control panel to reset the ink counter.

5Check that it worked

Print a nozzle check or a short color test page from the printer’s maintenance menu or software. You should see: every color printing as a solid pattern with no gaps. If a color is missing or streaky right after replacement, run one printhead cleaning cycle and check again.

6Troubleshooting

• ”Cartridge not recognized” or similar message. Remove it, check that all protective tape is off, and reinsert it firmly. Confirm it’s the right number for your model.
• The carriage doesn’t move to the loading position. Make sure the printer is on and the door fully open. Restart the printer and try again.
• Prints are faint after a refill. The ink may need time to flow through. Print a nozzle check and, if needed, run one cleaning cycle. See printer maintenance.
• The printer still says ink is low after a refill. Some models need you to confirm the refill on the panel.
• Colors look wrong. See improve print quality.

7When to get more help

Contact the manufacturer’s support if the carriage is stuck, a cartridge won’t latch, ink is leaking inside the printer, or an ink system error stays after restarting. Don’t pull the carriage by force or open covers beyond the ink door. For used cartridges, many manufacturers and retailers run take-back or recycling programs; the EPA’s electronics recycling page explains general options.

8FAQ

Do I have to replace all the cartridges at once?

No. Replace only the empty one. Each color is separate on most printers, although some models use one combined color cartridge.

Can I print when one color is empty?

Some printers let you print in black only for a while; others stop until the cartridge is replaced. Check your manual for your model’s behavior.

How should I store spare cartridges?

Keep them sealed in their packaging, upright if the package says so, in a cool, dry place. Use them before the date printed on the box.

Why does my printer use ink when I don’t print?

Inkjets use small amounts of ink for maintenance, such as cleaning the nozzles when switched on. It keeps the printhead from drying out.