How to Put a New Ink Cartridge in a Printer

Inkjet printers can be a cost-effective solution to your printing needs, but it is important to know how to change those print cartridges when they run dry. Many inexpensive home and office inkjet printers ship with half size print cartridges, so you may be replacing those cartridges before you think--and if you use the printer regularly, you'll likely have to change them often.

Things You'll Need

• Replacement ink cartridges
• Owner's manual
• Cotton swab

Instructions

1. Find out what type of print cartridges your printer uses. Consult the owner's manual that came with your printer, or check the manufacturer's website for more information. Replacement print cartridges are sold by number, so be sure to check the number of the print cartridge for your printer. Replacement print cartridges can be purchased at discount retailers, office supply stores and computer retailers.

2. Purchase the replacement print cartridge. You may want to check to see if your model printer can use generic cartridges--using generic print cartridges can save you up to half compared to the cost of name-brand ink cartridges.

3. Lift the top cover of your printer. When the cover is lifted the print cartridges should automatically move to the center of the printer, making it easier to access those cartridges. If the cartridges do not come to the center automatically be sure that the printer is powered on, then close the top cover and open it again.

4. Locate the ink cartridges and look for the cover that holds it in place. For most printers the cover will be blue in color--look for that cover and carefully lift it up. After the cover has been lifted you will see the ink cartridge. Carefully pull that ink cartridge forward and lift it up until it snaps out of its holder.

5. Use a moistened cotton swab to gently clean the area where the print cartridge had been sitting. Dirt and paper dust can accummulate in this area and that could reduce the efficiency and even the life of the new ink cartridges.

6. Take the new ink cartridge out of the package and remove any packaging materials. Most print cartridges will ship with a small piece of tape on the bottom of the cartridge--be sure to remove that tape before setting the catrridge in place.

7. Place the bottom part of the cartridge in the holder then push the top of the cartridge back until it snaps into place. Take the cover and snap it down over the new ink cartridge. Print a test page to make sure the new ink cartridge is working properly.

References

• HP Website