Safely Storing Ink Cartridges For Maximum Performance
There’s nothing worse than coming to print and finding that the ink cartridges you purchased a while ago no longer work.
Storing ink cartridges properly can lengthen their life span dramatically. With just a few tips on how to store your ink cartridges, you can make sure that your ink lasts until required.
1.) Store in Upright Position Whether it is in its box or loose, make sure to stand the ink cartridge in an upright position at all times. We recommend keeping cartridges with the print head facing up, especially cartridges that contain more than one colour. Storing cartridges lying down could cause inks to mix.
2.) Keep in Cool Conditions Store all ink cartridges in a cool ventilated place (15° to 35° Degrees) and do not expose to temperatures over room temperature. Ink could start to foam up creating bubbles which can cause leaks or air locks.
3.) Keep the Cartridge Sealed This keeps the ink in its original state keeping the print head moist. No air escapes or gets caught in the cartridge, ensuring to keep any chemical reactions kept to a minimum.
4.) Seal the Cartridge Bag Moisture is important when storing ink cartridges, so seal the bag with the cartridge inside. If the bag has been opened, try sealing the bag with sticky tape.
4.) Keep in a Dark Room Keeping the cartridges in a dark room stops the ink quality being degraded by direct sunlight. Ink cartridges that have already been opened can be stored for up to 6 months if kept in the right conditions, whilst new and sealed cartridges can last for 2 years.
If cartridges have been stored for a while and you wish to print, do not just insert the cartridge into the printer and begin printing. Doing this could damage your printer and waste your ink.
Just follow these quick steps:
- Unseal the cartridge, check for any ink spills and wipe any dust and spills
- Check the print head is moist by wiping tissue paper across the print head.
- Make sure the cartridge contact terminals appear as they should be.
- Insert into printer and print a test page.
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