How to Tell If an Ink Cartridge Is Bad

Be sure not to use defective print cartridges.

With the cost of ink cartridges so high, it is not surprising that printer owners want to make the most of every replacement cartridge they buy. Even so, it is important for printer owners not to use defective cartridges in their printers. Doing so could cause serious damage to the printer, damage that may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty. It is important for anyone who uses a printer to know how to test their cartridges.

Things You'll Need

• Printer
• Print cartridge
• Cotton swabs
• Warm water
• Isopropyl alcohol

Instructions

1. Open the printer cover and wait for the print cartridge to slide to the center. Never attempt to move the cartridges by hand because doing so could damage the printer.

2. Flip up the plastic piece that covers the print cartridge, then gently pull the cartridge forward while lifting it up. Pull the cartridge free of the printer and turn it over so that the bottom is facing up.

3. Dip a cotton swab in a glass of warm water or a bottle of isopropyl alcohol and carefully swab the bottom of the cartridge. Use a clean cotton swab each time you clean the cartridge and continue cleaning until no paper dust, ink or debris remains.

4. Sit the print cartridge right side up on a paper towel or a clean piece of paper. Allow the print cartridge to sit there for at least 15 to 20 minutes, then examine the paper for ink stains. If there is a great deal of ink on the paper the cartridge is leaking and should not be used.

References

• PC-Aholic: Leaking Print Cartridges