How to Fill Ink Jet Cartridges

The advent of computers in most offices and many homes has individuals printing documents and images on a frequent basis. You may notice your ink cartridges running low every few weeks, if not sooner. Replacing them can become costly, not to mention inconvenient. There is another way to keep the ink flowing. Save some money and time by learning to refill your old cartridges. It is also a more environmentally friendly option.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Purchase an ink refilling kit when learning to restock your cartridges. These are relatively inexpensive and can be ordered online or purchased from an office supply store or mass retailer. Some of the kits are specific to a particular printer so try to find one compatible with yours. After learning to use a kit you can purchase syringes, ink and other tools separately if you find it less costly to do so.

2. Pull ink of one color into a syringe that comes with the kit. Load no more than half of the syringe at first. Work over a sink or pile of old newspapers to minimize a possibly messy procedure.

3. Create a small hole in the top of each color chamber of your cartridge. It is advisable to start with a simple black cartridge, as only one hole will need to be made. Use a ball point pen or the very tip of an ice pick to drill your hole.

4. Inject the syringe into the hole you made. Press down slowly to avoid causing air bubbles that may inhibit printing.

5. Return any remaining ink to the bottle from which it was drawn. Clean your syringe thoroughly with running water and allow it to dry prior to reloading with another color.

6. Turn the refilled cartridge upside down over a sink or newspapers. This is to ensure the ink is not leaking from the sponge inside (if it is this type of cartridge). If it is leaking, tap on the side a few times to stop it.

7. Seal the cartridge if it is necessary. Refer to your specific kits instructions. In many cases you can seal with hot glue or even duct tape. Many cartridges do not need sealing at all.

8. Replace the cartridge in the printer. Program your printer to run a cleaning. You may need to run the cleaning a couple of times if there are any problems in the printing.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are working with a "vacuum" cartridge always squeeze it prior to sealing so the vacuum is established.
• Refill your cartridges before they are completely empty. Cartridges can become clogged if they run dry. Apply as little pressure as possible when drilling holes and refilling as even small cracks can ruin a cartridge.