Is It a Good Idea to Refill Ink Cartridges?

Given that the majority of the expense of owning an inkjet printer relates to purchasing replacement ink you are probably keen to reduce that cost. Refilling ink cartridges yourself may seem to be an easy way to accomplish this.

However is it that simple? Will you wind up damaging your printer and also maybe voiding its manufacturer's warranty? Well the printer producers most certainly would like you to think so and they do their utmost to put barriers in your way.

Looking at the warranty question - you will not void the warranty simply by using refilled cartridges but if any sort of damage is caused by them that will most likely not be covered (e.g. damaged due to ink leaking into the printer).

So should you re-fill your ink containers? Well there are a number of points to think about:

Some cartridges are easier to replenish than others and some cannot be filled up. See if reliable specialists provide a refill kit for your specific cartridge. The ink needs to be matched to the cartridge so make sure you buy from a reputable supplier.

Some containers have a chip which connects with the printer and must be reset if the container is refilled. You can buy a device to do this however it is an added expense to take account of.

Ink cartridges that incorporate the print head can only be refilled a few times but those that do not may replenished as often as necessary.

If it is cost effective to re-fill your ink cartridge the technique primarily entails;

• Making a hole in the container
• Injecting the ink
• Sealing the opening.

This does take some practice so the initial attempt may not be totally successful. You will probably make some mess and must be prepared for some problems that you can learn from. Bear in mind the following:

You must re-fill a cartridge just before it is completely empty.

Do not try and replenish it whilst it is in the printer.

Adhere to the kit instructions meticulously-- most importantly do not hurry.

Ink cartridges are not all the same, some are basically sponge filled compartments others are slightly pressurized, so don't suppose that the instructions for one can be applied to another.

In some cases re-filled cartridges will not print or stop printing whilst still containing ink. As long as you did not let the cartridge dry out this is most likely a result of improper filling allowing air in the cartridge. The secret to refilling is to do it slowly.

To recap successful refilling of ink cartridges does take some practice but can be a great way of saving money.