How to Extend the Life of Your Cartridges

Printer ink cartridges can last longer with careful use and maintenance of the product.  There are different types of cartridges both branded and generic.  While they all come at various costs, specifications and benefits, they can be used in such a way as to maximize their performance and thus save on operation costs.  There are many ways to save on printer ink cartridge expenses.  One of them is finding a way to extend the life of the printer ink cartridge purchased, and this does not depend on whether it is branded or not.  Every business would benefit with less expenses and more quality performance.  Simple tips that can be carefully noted for better and maximized performance include the following:

1.  Storage: Storage is very important for many goods that are likely to get damaged with bad storage conditions.  Many products especially come with instructions from the manufacturer to ensure the product is stored in a cool dry place and ideally at room temperature.  Good storage of printer ink cartridges can last two years.  Printer ink cartridges’ seals should not be opened at all as this will lower their shelf life by allowing the vacuum sealed products to fill with air.  These printer ink cartridges may last only six months.

2.  Print Mode: Printers automatically print at best quality because this is the default setting in most cases.  Printing in highest resolution possible is usually the highest quality mode and which means that the cartridge is losing the ink faster than usual.  One should be keen before printing to ensure that the settings are right for the work required.  Most printing that is done is not necessarily required in the highest quality and one can easily change the settings of the printer before printing.  The draft mode prints lowest quality at a lower resolution that is basic and reduces on ink consumption thus saving the printer ink cartridge.

3.  Frequency of use: The use of printers frequently helps the printer ink cartridge last longer.  The process in which the ink travels through the nozzle ensures that they don’t dry up.  Frequent use of the printer allows the nozzle to keep wet with ink.  If the nozzle is left dry, it may stop printing.  It is important to keep the printer active so that this does not happen.  Printing a page is enough for this to keep the nozzle wet with ink.

4.  Printer Button Switch: All printers, just like other machines have a power button for use in switching it on or off.  This switch is important in ensuring the printer ink cartridge’s seal remains intact when the printer is not in use.  When the power is turned off from the power source, the printer ink cartridge may remain exposed because it is unsealed.  The printer ink cartridge contains sponges which easily dry up on exposure.  The printer’s switch automatically returns the seal or cap of the printer ink cartridge when it is switched off and thus covering the sponge.  It should be a habit to switch the printer off at its own On/Off switch.  This ensures that the cartridge has a long life.