How to Change Cartridges on a Laser Printer

Installing toner cartridges on laser printers varies by brand and model. These general instructions supplement or simplify the information in your printer manual.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Toner Cartridges

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Open cover or front of printer. (You should be able to do this easily, without tools.)

3. Remove the existing toner cartridge by pulling its handle or top. Carefully lift it out or up toward you.

4. Save the cartridge for recycling or refilling.

5. Remove the new toner cartridge from its plastic bag. Use scissors if necessary.

6. Gently shake cartridge from side to side.

7. Remove tape from bottom of cartridge.

8. Put new cartridge in printer. You might need to push, but you shouldn't need to force it.

9. Close the printer cover.

10. Turn on printer.

11. Print a test page. If toner smears, repeat test page until it prints cleanly.

Tips & Warnings

• If your printouts have light streaks, you can often eliminate the problem temporarily by gently shaking the cartridge, then putting it back in. (This redistributes the toner within the cartridge.)

• Immediately wash any toner-soiled clothes in cold water.