How to Refill a Cartridge

The whole process of refilling an almost spent ink cartridge is fairly easy if you do not mind the possibility of ruining some cloths or staining a table top. On the same side of the coin is that it is considered illegal, although some might say that the prices charged in the first place constitute usury. In any case, the process is going to go on so understanding how to lessen the chance of trashing some cloths may be worth it.

Each cartridge is different

One of the reasons that the printer companies chose this method of marketing (cheap printer-expensive inks) was that they could manipulate their inks and cartridges so that each could only be used in certain printers. This basically means that the ink cartridge is the same as others but different. Refilling cartridges, then, means knowing where the differences are.

Two main differences

There really are two distinct differences in refilling cartridges. The first lies in the reservoir. If you are planning to be refilling hp ink cartridge you are more likely to find an ink cartridge reservoir that holds the ink. If you are refilling Lexmark ink cartridge you will likely find a sponge system. Both work ok but it is something to consider as you get ready to begin ink cartridge refilling.

Black and color

Here is another area where there are a few differences to watch out for. When refilling cartridges for a Lexmark ink cartridge the steps differ for black ink cartridges and color ink cartridges. For black cartridges there is a whole on top in which to insert a needle with the black ink in it. All that is needed is a hole about 1/16 of an inch on the lower level of the cartridge. With the three color cartridges, however, ink cartridge refilling is a bit more detailed. First you have to get the caps off the cartridges. This is best left to a good pair of pliers and a vice grip. Once this is done you must determine which color is in each cartridge. Stick a needle in each and make a note. In these instances, refill kits will have everything you will need.

Refilling Cartridges

In this step slowly is a good word of caution. You will only need 5cc of ink and it should be put in slowly, not only because spillage is not good for you but the printer as well when you are done. There is a slight bit of mistake room when refilling hp ink cartridge but try not to use it. Slowly is particularly important when refilling Lexmark ink cartridge. With this cartridge there are sponges in use. Extra air inside the cartridge does not help in getting the ink out of it so go slow. Most indicate that 5cc of ink in about one minute is the right pace.

Keep clean

The big thing to remember is that clean is good. Any leakage will screw up your print jobs and possibly the printer so go slow and be clean.

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How to Refill a Cartridge

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