Maintenance Tips For Keeping Printer Ink Cartridges Running Cleanly

2012-01-18

Modern printers are designed be plug-and-play. This concept even extends to the replacement printer ink cartridges. There is a downside to the convenience of this new printer technology, however. When an ink cartridge malfunctions, most manufacturers will imply recommend that you replace it. This solution, while good for their sales, is not particularly cost effective for the end user.

While defects do occur, they are extremely rare and any reputable retail outlet will stand by its in-store guarantee and replace the cartridge. On other occasions, the cartridge will have worked fine at the outset but develop problems weeks later, even though it has been used very little.

In this latter case, here are some maintenance tips that may help fix the malfunctioning printer ink cartridges.

Automatic Cleaning Option

The first step in resolving an ink cartridge problem should be to follow the recommendations of the printer's manufacturer. Included in the software of all newer printers is the option to clean the print heads. The process is quite simple. Navigate to "Printers" in the "Start" menu and right click on the icon for the appropriate printer. Then, click on the maintenance tab and follow the instructions. This process fixes the majority of ink cartridge problems.

Physically Clean the Print Cartridge

If an ink cartridge has been used and then left sitting for a considerable amount of time, the residual ink may harden and clog the ports that release the ink. Removing this dried ink is a quick and simple process. Just remove the cartridge from the printer and place the "print head" on a moistened piece of paper towel. The print head is the area on the bottom of the cartridge that looks like it is covered in silver or gold foil. It is also important not to touch or damage this area in any way as that could cause future problems.

Remove Debris from the Carriage Assembly

The replaceable portion, that is, the ink cartridge, of the printer assembly is always installed in a pristine condition. The parts which hold the ink cartridge in place, known as the carriage assembly, are not so lucky. Dust and debris collect on these parts and inhibit the proper functioning of the whole process. To clean, simply remove any ink cartridges and use compressed air to blow out the detritus.

Replacement

If the above methods fail, the only feasible option is to replace the cartridge. As mentioned above, if the cartridge is relatively new, most retail outlets will replace them at no charge. In general, new printer technology has made ink cartridges extremely reliable. Following the manufacturer's guidelines for installation and some proper maintenance can only help ensure this reliability.