How to Refill Lexmark Printer Cartridges

Buying ink cartridges for a Lexmark printer is one of the most expensive things about owning and maintaining a computer. It seems that the replacement ink cartridges often cost more than the original printer. One way to save a little money is by refilling the ink cartridges yourself. Many companies are now offering do-it-yourself printer ink kits which cost much less than new cartridges. Putting the ink into the cartridges isn’t that hard, you will just need a little patience and these few easy steps.

Things You'll Need

• Printer ink refill kit
• Used Lexmark printer ink cartridge
• Electric drill
• Household tape
• Old newspapers
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. Spread the newspapers over your entire work area. Place the paper towels within close reach. Put the used Lexmark ink cartridge upright on the newspapers and open the ink refill kit.

2. Drill a hole in the recessed area on the top of the Lexmark ink cartridge, if there isn’t one already there. If the cartridge has a refill hole, remove the tape that covers it.

3. Fill the syringe with ink from the kit. Usually its 10 ml for black ink and about 5 to 8 cc for colored ink.

4. Insert the syringe needle into the hole on top of the cartridge and with firm pressure slowly fill the Lexmark cartridge with ink.

5. Seal the hole with tape.

6. Place any unused ink back into the bottle for later use.

7. Wipe off the Lexmark ink cartridge and place it back into the printer.

8. Leave the ink cartridge in the printer for at least 24 hours before using. This allows the sponge inside the cartridge to become evenly saturated with the ink.

Tips & Warnings

• It’s a good idea to wear old clothes when refilling cartridges in case of spills.

• If you aren’t very handy, wearing rubber gloves is a good idea.

• Always follow the instructions included in the refill package regarding your type and brand of ink cartridge.

• If your ink cartridge has been totally out of ink for over an hour, refilling may not work. Remember to refill your cartridge when it gets low, before it becomes bone dry.