When to replace your ink or toner cartridge?
The following signs may indicate that you need to replace your ink cartridge or toner:
1. Your computer may display a 'Toner Low' or similar message; you will still be able to print after this has appeared, but the quality of your prints will begin to deteriorate.
2. The pages being printed seem faded or washed out
3. The printed pages have a repeating defect of some kind
4. There may be an indicator light on your printer which will let you know when the ink is running low.
Black ink or toner will usually require more frequent replacement than colour.
It is advisable not to remove a toner or ink cartridge from your printer before it needs to be replaced. However if an ink or toner cartridge should be removed temporarily from the printer, ensure that you keep the supply area of the cartridge protected from dirt and dust, and that it is stored in a way that the contents cannot leak out.
How to remove and replace an ink or toner cartridge
How to remove and replace an ink or toner cartridge
Cartridge installation varies between brands and models of printer. Here are some hints and tips which will apply to most major brands:
The majority of modern computers will inform you when your toner or ink cartridge is running low or needs to be replaced. It should also let you know which colour or colours (if applicable) need to be replaced to save you from replacing cartridges unnecessarily.
The printer menu on your PC may have an option to 'Replace Toner', which will enable you to select the toner cartridge that you wish to replace from a list of options. On selecting, the relevant cartridge will position itself at the inside front of the printer.
Many printer cartridges will simply lift or pull out from their positioning within the printer, and the new ones click back into place. However some brands may have a clip or button to depress in order to release the cartridge before removing it. Always take care not to force the cartridge out from its position or you may risk damaging the printer. If in doubt, refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
Finding the right ink or toner cartridge for your printer
When it comes to buying replacement ink or toner for your printer, there are a few options to consider before you purchase. The first is whether to opt for a genuine replacement or a pattern cartridge.
Genuine Replacement Ink and Toner
Genuine ink and toner cartridges are made by the original manufacturer of your printer and are designed to be 'like for like' replacements, specifically developed for your make and model of printer.
Pattern Replacement Ink and Toner
Our pattern ink and toner cartridges are manufactured to the highest standards to provide comparable quality to the genuine alternative, and designed to offer fantastic value for money.
You will also need to make sure that you are purchasing the correct ink or toner cartridge for your model of printer. Our quick finder is the easiest way to identify the correct ink or toner; simply enter the make and model number of your printer, which can usually be found on the front of the printer, and should also be on the user's manual. This will show all printer cartridges that are compatible with your printer.
What is the difference between ink and toner?
Toners are a powdery substance used in laser printers, some fax machines and some photocopiers. Liquid ink is used in inkjet printers and inkjet copiers and faxes.
How can I tell if my printer uses toner or ink cartridges?
If the paper you have printed on feels warm when it comes out of the printer, your printer probably uses a toner cartridge. If the printed ink on the paper is wet to the touch, your printer probably uses liquid ink cartridges.
If your cartridge is about 9 to 12 inches (225-400mm) in size or larger, it is probably a toner cartridge. If the cartridge is about 3 to 4 inches (75-100mm) or smaller, your printer probably uses an ink cartridge.
Toners and ink cartridges intended for use in colour printers and copiers are available in Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black.