How to Fix a Dry Inkjet Cartridge

Everybody is aware that printing from an inkjet is not easy on the pockets. For this reason, we avoid printing stuff unless and until it is absolutely necessary. Ink cartridges are costly. When ink cartridges are not used for a long time, they get dried. Even though it is one of the most common printer issues, it is very easy to get rid of it.

Why do ink cartridges get dried up?

·         There are many reasons why users notice that, in spite of there being a lot of ink left in the cartridge, the nozzles are dry and start printing blank pages. Here are some common reasons:

·         If printers are used once in a blue moon, then cartridges may get dry. If you do not use your inkjet for a while, then the permanent ink will get the time to get dried up in the nozzle. Therefore, you must use your printer frequently. Keep printing a couple of lines of text or simple small-sized images a couple of times in a month.

·         If you injected toner ink in an old cartridge, then air may have gotten in. Adding toner requires patience and practice. If done improperly, air bubbles can seep in and dry up the ink.

·         Moreover, ink starts drying up as the cartridge’s expiration dates near.  Check the expiration date, and change the cartridge as and when they expire. Whenever you refill the cartridge, use good quality ink and be extra careful.

How to resuscitate a dried out inkjet cartridge?

Use a cotton swab

Power on the printer and gently inject the cartridge. Carefully inspect the cartridge, especially the backside. Look for any grime, dirt, or leaked ink. With the help of the cotton swab, remove any visible particles. Dip the cotton swab in a little bit of high concentration isopropyl alcohol and clean the area where the chipboard is located. Be gentle yet thorough while cleaning the cartridge.

After cleaning with rubbing alcohol, wipe the cartridge with a clean, dry and soft cotton cloth. Insert the cartridge back into the printer. Run a test print and see if the problem persists or not.

Dip in water

In a shallow container, add a little warm water. Now, carefully immerse the nozzle face of the cartridge in the disk. Ensure that the cartridge is not completely submerged in water. Let it stay undisturbed for a few hours. Carefully remove the cartridge from the container. With a clean and lint-free rag, wipe the cartridge. After drying the cartridge from outside, insert it in the printer and run a test print.

If you do not use your inkjet printer often, then you should eject the cartridge from it. Put the cartridge back in its protective case or use a plastic wrap to cover its nozzles. After that, store it in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight. Keep it in a cool and dry place.

Charlie Noah is a Microsoft Office expert and has been working in the technical industry since 2002. As a technical expert, he has written technical blogs, manuals, white papers, and reviews for many websites such as office.com/setup