How to change toner or cartridges without damaging them (and without ending up covered in ink)

After printing hundreds and hundreds of pages it is normal that we have to change toner or ink cartridges of the printer. At first glance it may seem like a very simple task, but you don't have to be careless. Many people look like they have been attacked by a giant squid, ending up covered in ink.

How to change toner

It's not just about getting your hands dirty. When you change the toner in a printer, if you are not careful you can destroy the compartment and end up covered in it. However, it should be added that it is as important to learn how to change the ink correctly as it is to buy quality cartridges.

In particular, compatible cartridges (alternatives to official cartridges) offer high quality when developing printing jobs, while at the same time they represent a saving for our pocket. These cartridges are designed and developed by companies other than printer manufacturers, managing to offer truly competitive prices. Depending on the printer you have, you can buy compatible toner or ink, from the brand you like the most. If you know the type of cartridge you need, but want to see alternatives to the brand of your printer, or need other products for your equipment, you can buy consumables at www.ntt-toner.es.

How to change the ink cartridges in your printer

Have you run out of ink in your printer and need to change one or both cartridges? Pay attention, this is how the cartridges are changed without damaging them or making a mess. The process is practically the same in all printers.

The first thing you will have to do is turn on the printer and lift the lid. Not the scanner cover -if it is a multi-function printer– but the one below it, where the ink is stored, and where the rollers for the paper and the printing system are located. On some printers you will find a 'Change Cartridge' button. If yours has it, you will have to press it to tell the printer that you want to change the empty ink or toner cartridges.

Once the lid is lifted you will see that the cartridge holder will begin to move. Wait for it to stop moving. Only then can you proceed to extract the cartridges. In order to remove them you have to apply a little pressure on the slit that will release the ink container. Don't overdo it! You have to do the bare minimum. If you are too rough, you could break not only the container but also some components of the printer.

Ink stain from a broken cartridge

Finally you have to place the new ink. As? It's very simple, remove all the plastics, don't forget to get a new cartridge sensors –and also those of one that has been reused– They are covered by a plastic that protects them. You have to remove it without touching the sensors with your fingers, or you could ruin the sensor and it would be unusable. Place it in place and apply a little pressure to lock it into place. If the printer has a system in which you have to notify to change a toner cartridge, be sure to confirm in the system that you have completed the process.