Cleaning the Print Cartridges

• Most print cartridges contain a print head on the bottom of the cartridge. This area should not be touched or modified in anyway. Ink flows from the print head, and grease or oil from your fingers can damage the print head. If your ink cartridges are not printing and you know they are full of ink, remove the print cartridge from the printer and place it with the print head surface down onto a moist paper towel. Press gently until you see ink starting to flow from the cartridge. If no ink is showing, repeat this step until you see ink on the towel. Then let the print cartridge dry before installing in your printer. Print a "test page" to test the printer.
  
  

Using the "Soaking Method" to Repair Print Cartridges

• Another maintenance tip for print cartridges is using the "soaking method" to get dried up or non-working cartridges working. Locate a dish or small bowl and fill it with warm water---enough to cover the bottom of the print cartridge. Remove the problem print cartridge from the printer and place the cartridge in the bowl of water. Let the cartridge soak for at least 2 minutes then remove and let air dry before reinstalling the cartridge. This method may not work for all print cartridges. Run a "test page" to test the cartridge.
  
  

Cleaning the Print Cartridge Carriage Assembly

• Over time the carriage assembly that holds the print cartridges can become clogged with dust and debris. To clean the carriage assembly, remove the print cartridges and use compressed air to blow out any dust or debris. Make sure to blow the dust out of the front of the printer so it won't collect on the electronic boards located in the back of the printer. You may also want to shake the printer gently to remove any paper fragments.
  
  

Using Your Printer's Automatic Cleaning Option

• Some printers have a automatic cleaning option that can be accessed through the printer's software. To check and see if your printer has this option, click on "Start" then "Printers and Faxes." Right click on the icon for your printer. Scroll down to "Printing Preferences." Look for a tab called "Maintenance" or similar wording. Next, click on "Head Cleaning" or similar wording. Your printer will make some noises as the print cartridges are being cleaned. Run a "test page" after the procedure is complete. Repeat steps if necessary.
  
  

When to Replace the Print Cartridge

• When the print cartridge will not print after trying the soak method, soaking on a paper towel or using the automatic cleaning option---it is time to replace the cartridge. Blow out any dust from the printer before installing the new cartridge.