What to do if the printer stopped printing after refueling

Many consumers opt to fill their own ink tanks in order to save money, as the cost of a new cartridge is often as high as that of the printer itself. However, even when the ink tank is full, some printers may still refuse to print.

Check the settings in the operating system

1. Access the search bar by pressing Win + S and type in "Control Panel".
2. Navigate to the "Devices and Printers" section.
3. Select the desired model from the list of available devices and right-click on it.
4. In the context menu, click on the option "Set as default".

One more issue that can arise is a print queue becoming overloaded. This is particularly pertinent for printers connected to a local network.

To resolve this, follow these steps:

1. In the "Devices and Printers" section, double-click on the desired model.
2. Click on the "View Print Queue" option.
3. Remove unnecessary tasks from the list or clear it completely ("Document" -> "Cancel All").

Tip: If the printer has its own memory block, a more drastic solution is to restart the computer. However, this may not be effective in some cases.

Before troubleshooting the cartridge, it is important to first inspect the USB cord. Surprisingly, this simple cable can sometimes be the culprit behind printing malfunctions. If you don’t have an extra cord available, try gently wiggling all the connectors or plugging the cable into a different USB port on your computer. If these efforts don’t resolve the issue, then it’s necessary to explore other potential causes for the printer’s lack of printing.

Dried ink in the nozzles

One major drawback of inkjet printers is that the ink in the print head’s nozzles tends to dry up after a short period of time. To avoid this issue, it is necessary to continuously print something or turn on the printer every few days (between 3 to 7 days) to "clear out" the nozzles.

Air got in during refilling

Refilling an ink cartridge with air will not have much adverse effects, except that it can cause ink to leak out. This happens because there won’t be enough vacuum pressure inside the cartridge to prevent the ink from leaking out.

Another scenario is when the ink in the cartridge runs out and air is able to reach the print head nozzles. In this situation, the ink can dry out in the capillaries of the print head. If the printer is not properly parked when it finishes printing, air can also enter and dry out the print head. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the carriage always reaches the parking space to protect the nozzles from drying out.

The ink is not selected correctly

There is a misconception among some users that all printer models use the same ink. However, this is not the case as even printers from the same brand may require different types of ink. Using incompatible ink can cause the cartridge to malfunction and lead to the need for a thorough cleaning of the print head.

It is crucial to carefully read the instructions for the ink before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your specific printer model.

Additionally, it is important to check the expiration date of the ink before using it.

The cartridge is not installed correctly

In certain cases, there may be an issue where the printer fails to recognize the cartridge. This can occur when the electrical contacts on the cartridge do not align properly with the contacts inside the carriage. If there is any disruption in the contact (such as dust or dried paint), the device will not function correctly. Additionally, it is necessary to remove the protective film from the contacts if the ink cartridge is brand new.

Some devices, especially multifunction printers, will not function until the cover is closed securely. This is due to a special lid sensor. Therefore, if a SNHR is installed and the cable from it prevents the lid from closing tightly, the sensor should be blocked using a piece of Styrofoam (please note that methods of blocking may vary for different printer models).

Excess ink

Many users attempt to refill the cartridge almost completely, which is not recommended. If the cartridge is transparent, it is advisable to fill it to about 90% of its ink capacity. If the cartridge is opaque, the user manual should clearly specify the maximum allowable level.

Additionally, it is important to check the cartridge for any micro cracks. There should be no fresh ink drops on the surface after refilling. It is recommended to wipe it dry with a cloth and let it dry in a dry location for a few minutes to ensure there are no leaks.

Sometimes, after refilling the cartridge, it may refuse to function correctly or show no signs of activity at all. The cause of these issues can usually be attributed to the user’s lack of skill or failure to follow the provided instructions.

The procedure for replacing toner in a laser cartridge is as follows:

1. Unscrew or remove the cover to gain access to the toner compartment.
2. Clean out any accumulated old powder from the compartment.
3. Add new toner, preferably from the same brand as the printer.
4. Remove any remaining powder residue, paying careful attention to the photocell and dispensing blade.
5. Reassemble the cartridge and return it to its original position.

Hint! For easier cleaning of the powder box, it is advisable to utilize a vacuum cleaner. When the cartridge has been refilled numerous times, it is important to inspect the magnetic shafts and cleaning blade (rakel) for any signs of wear and tear. If needed, the cleaning blade should be replaced.

Similar to inkjet printers, laser cartridges also come with control chips. However, some laser cartridges have these chips placed externally, which could potentially lead to accidental damage during the next refill. It is crucial for the device’s firmware to alert the user about this issue.

There are two types of cartridges used by inkjet printers: disposable and refillable. Disposable cartridges are equipped with a special chip that disables the printer once the ink in the container runs out. Additionally, the printer will not function if the pampers counter indicates that it is full.

Control chip

Every cartridge is fitted with a tiny chip that holds various service details. The chip is rather delicate, and it can be easily damaged, for instance, while refilling the ink. The majority of proprietary software that supports the printer detects the chip malfunction.

A Problem with the Cartridge

If you encounter this error message, your first step should be to examine the chip for any contaminants. If there is dried paint on the chip, you can use a cotton swab soaked in alcohol or a regular eraser to remove it, unless the dirt is minimal. In more severe cases, you may need to replace the entire cartridge or just the chip itself.

Furthermore, these chips also keep track of the number of pages printed. Some cartridges have predetermined limits and will stop working once those limits are reached. In such cases, you can try reprogramming the chip or replacing it to resolve the issue.

In most cases, this component is referred to as a "diaper" or an absorbent pad. The absorber is essential for removing excess ink while cleaning the cartridge nozzles. The mini-pump generates a region of lower pressure within the nozzles, while the body maintains normal pressure. As a result of the pressure difference, ink clots are expelled and collect on the gasket.

Many devices can detect the level of absorber saturation and display a corresponding message or error code. If the "pumper" becomes completely clogged with ink residue, the printer may refuse to print.

The ink container is completely filled.

Replacing the seal can be a complex task in many situations, so it is advisable to seek professional assistance. Furthermore, not all utilities provide the option to reset the pollution counter.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to address issues with the ink container and chip, as the designs of the devices vary. Different printer models require different troubleshooting methods.

Troubleshooting Brother printers (MFP) problems

Brother printers lack the capability to detect the overflow of waste ink, so the absorber is monitored through software. The software takes into account the number of prints produced by the machine and the number of head cleanings, both forced and regular. After a certain period of time, the program counter determines that the printer’s pads are full and locks the printer, displaying a "Cleaning" or "Error 46" message. Resetting the counter does not require any additional software; the machine has a reset function available through the service menu. To access the service menu, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the power cable from the main socket.
2. Hold down the "MENU" key and reconnect the power cord to the main socket.
3. Click on the "+" button and wait for the number 8 to appear. Once it appears, click on "OK".
4. Press the "+" key to choose the number 2 and click on "OK". After completing these steps, you will see the notification "MACHINE ERROR" or "MACHINE ERROR 00". If any other message is displayed instead, it means you won’t be able to reset the diaper counter.

To begin with, let’s move on to the actual procedure of resetting the program:

• Follow the aforementioned steps up to step 3 (inclusive).
• After that, press the "+" button to select the number 0 and then press the "OK" button. This will display the image "00:00 XX:XX", with XX:XX representing the current time.
• Now, you need to press the "BLACK-WHITE" key (located near the "START" button) until the "PURGE: xxxxxx" message appears, where xxxxxx can be any set of numbers.

Next, you will have to enter the special code "2783" for the "PURGE" message:

• Use the "+" key to locate the number 2 on the screen and press "OK".
• Then, press "+" → "7" → "OK".
• Press "+" → "8" → "OK".
• Lastly, press "+" → "3" → "OK".
• You should then see the message "PURGE:00000".
• Click on the "BLACK/WHITE" button to choose the "FLUSH: xxxxxxx" option;
• Redo all the steps that were done after selecting "PURGE";
• Once you pick the number 3 and press "OK", a message saying "FLUSH:00000" will appear. After that, switch off the printer, disconnect it from the power source, and then turn it back on.

After the counter is reset, the printer will continue functioning as normal. It is also advisable to remove the ink absorber, clean it, and let it dry, although this will necessitate dismantling the machine. A separate article is required to provide instructions on how to do this.

Solution for Canon printers

Canon ink tanks possess a chip which tracks the ink level. When the chip detects that the ink is running low, it triggers an error message or indicates that the cartridge is empty. Consequently, it is necessary to deactivate the counter.

If you have installed Canon PG510 / 440 / 426 ink cartridges, you should press "OK" in response to all the messages appearing on the machine’s display. Press "OK" repeatedly until a message instructs you to press the paper feed button. Hold down the button for a few seconds, and the ink counter will be reset. For other cartridges, the reset can be performed by pressing the triangle button for 5-10 seconds or by accessing the printer settings on your PC.

Canon, the manufacturer of printing equipment, utilizes two types of printheads in their devices: non-detachable and detachable ones placed directly on the cartridge.

Reanimating Epson printers

The ink management in Epson printers is handled by their proprietary software, also known as firmware. As a result, regardless of the amount of ink you add, the program will detect it as an empty capacity and restrict printing functionality.

To restore the functionality of the device, many users often opt for PrintHelp software, a widely available and free program that can be utilized with most Epson printing devices.

By utilizing this software, you have the capability to not only reset the ink levels, but also track the ink quantity. Additionally, the program has the ability to identify pampers overflow and reset it if needed.

Restore the performance of HP printers

There is no denying the fact that HP 121, 27, 28, 56, 57, 21, and 22 ink cartridges can be refilled. It is important to exercise caution and refill the ink before it completely runs out. When the chip detects a low ink level (even if there is still ink present), a message is displayed with an exclamation mark next to the affected cartridge. To proceed, you must click on "Continue" to disable the ink level monitoring. However, the drawback of this approach is that you will not have visibility into the remaining ink level.

Position the inkwell on the table, ensuring that the contacts are facing upwards, and follow these steps:

1. You must affix tape to one of the contacts highlighted in green in the provided image. It is crucial to tape only one contact.
2. Once complete, insert the ink cartridge into the machine, press the "OK" button that will appear in the message window, and print a test page from the internal settings of the machine.
3. Afterwards, remove the ink cartridge from the printer once again.
4. Next, proceed to close another contact. You have the option of selecting any available contact (blue, purple, or red) without removing the sticker from the previously closed contact.
5. Insert the ink cartridge back into the printer, press "OK," and print another test page.
6. Finally, remove the ink cartridge from the machine once more.
7. Take off the sticker from the initial contact and then put the part back into the machine. Wait until the machine detects the ink cartridge before removing it.
8. Ensure to remove the sticker from the second contact, clean all contacts with alcohol, and reinstall the ink cartridge into the printer.

The purpose of this procedure is to replace four different cartridges, erase the memory of the device regarding the refilled ink cartridge ID, and consider the fifth one inserted as a new cartridge. Subsequently, the printer will recognize the presence of ink and show its level in the containers.

If the first method proves ineffective, you can try the second approach:

• Cover the first contact, insert the ink tank into the machine, and execute the test as in the first method.
• Before proceeding, keep the sticker intact on the initial contact and adhere three contacts using the image as a guide;
• Introduce the component into the device and execute the test print;
• Subsequently, eliminate all stickers and restore the ink cartridge to its original position, remembering to sanitize the contacts using alcohol.

In this scenario, there is no need for direct user interaction with the cartridges: the process is handled through the printer software. You can locate it on the official website of the equipment manufacturer in the "Drivers and Utilities" section.

Nozzle cleaning and calibration:

1. Access the "Control Panel".
2. Navigate to "Devices and printers".
3. Select the desired model.
4. Choose the option "Adjust printing settings".
5. In the window that appears, locate the "Service" section ("Maintenance", etc.).
6. Click on the icon representing the necessary procedure.

Many utility programs offer the option to inspect the printer nozzles, perform a printhead cleaning, and even conduct a calibration process. Clearing the nozzles takes approximately 1-2 minutes and may result in significant ink usage. As a precaution, it is recommended to have the printer cartridge filled with at least 50% ink. If needed, this process can be repeated as necessary.

Flushing non-removable printheads

Before embarking on the washing of this particular part, it is important to make the necessary preparations. You will need a small receptacle in which the washing process will take place. This receptacle can take the form of a saucer, a plastic box with low sides, a photo tub, or something similar. Additionally, you will require gauze or bandages, a pair of 10 ml syringes, plastic and rubber tubes (commonly found in medical droppers), and rubber bands if there is a particularly stubborn blockage that cannot be resolved through soaking.

When it comes to flushing, it is recommended to use a specialized flushing liquid that can be purchased from ink stores. However, these liquids tend to be quite expensive. Therefore, as a more cost-effective alternative, you can use household chemicals such as "Mr. Muscle" (MM) window cleaner, which contains ammonia.

It is important to note that the chosen flushing liquid should have either a green or blue color. Liquids of other colors will not be suitable for the rinsing process.

After that, the printhead must be taken out. Since there is a wide range of printers available, each case will have its own unique details. You can find videos online that demonstrate the process of removing the printhead for any type of printer.

Simple way

So, once everything is set, follow these steps:

1. Take a syringe and fill it with MM.
2. Cut out 2 small pieces of gauze. Fold the first piece to match the size of the bottom pad of the PG, then place it in a saucer and soak it in MM. Crumple the second piece of gauze and also lightly moisten it with glass fluid.
3. Flip the PG upside down, with the nozzles facing upwards, and use the moistened, crumpled gauze to remove any dirt from it. You may need to change several gauze swabs.
4. Take the PG and place it on the designated area of gauze in the saucer. Use a gauze swab moistened with MM to remove any dirt from the intake grids (being careful not to break them).
5. Once the rubber bands have been removed from the inkwells, rinse them under water to get rid of any dried ink, and then wipe the areas where the bands were using gauze.
6. Afterwards, use a syringe to drop one drop of MM onto the grids of the inlets.
7. To assess the effectiveness of the flush, fold a small piece of gauze in half, saturate it with MM, and place the PG on top for approximately 1 hour. If, at the end of this time, the gauze remains clean or has only faint ink streaks without any significant areas of contamination, then it is safe to insert the PG into the machine.
8. After inserting the print head into the printer, it is important to run the PG cleaning process 2-3 times in order to eliminate any residue from the MM.

In the event that a droplet of liquid is not absorbed by the grid, allow it some time to soak. Periodically remove it with a cloth and reapply.

For severe clogs

If the fabric stops staining but the liquid still doesn’t go through, you will need to resort to the following method of flushing, which is applied in cases of stubborn blockages.

1. Choose tubes with the appropriate diameter to fit over the spigots that the ink enters the head through. The tubes should be around 5 cm in length and fit tightly.
2. Once the tubes have been installed, place the head on a piece of gauze in a saucer and pour MM into the tubes. Be sure to periodically refill the tubes with liquid, as it will slowly seep out through the nozzles. Additionally, remember to replace the gauze in the saucer when a puddle forms nearby.
3. If the MM is moving very slowly or not at all in one or more of the tubes, it is recommended to leave the head in this position for several hours, or preferably overnight.

Prior to installation in the printer, it is important to "pump" the head so that it is not dry. To do this, add a few drops of flushing fluid to the ink channel grids.

Flushing the printhead on a cartridge

This technique for restoration is applicable to both Canon printer cartridges and HP machine ink cartridges that come with an integrated print head, and can be visually represented by the diagram shown below.

First and foremost, it is important to determine whether the ink cartridge is truly dry if the printer is not producing any prints. To do this, take a piece of toilet paper and gently press it against the bottom of the ink reservoir where the nozzles are located. If the ink leaves a clear, visible print on the paper, then it is likely that the print head is not dried out. However, if there is no print or if the print is faint, it is a clear indication that the nozzles need to be soaked.

The simplest and most efficient way to soak the nozzles is to apply a few drops of a suitable cleaning solution, such as MM, directly onto the nozzles. To do this, turn the cartridge upside down so that the nozzles are facing upwards, as illustrated in the accompanying picture.

After a duration of 10 minutes, extract the liquid from the nozzles using a tissue and verify if the ink is able to flow through onto the paper. If this technique proves ineffective, you have the option to immerse the component for a longer period of time (2-3 hours) within a receptacle containing a specialized solution known as MM.

To facilitate the penetration of the liquid into the nozzles, you may insert a toothpick underneath the inkwell so that the nozzles remain suspended in the solution without making contact with the bottom of the container.

Once the soaking process is complete, it is essential to use a cloth to thoroughly dry the component, paying careful attention to the contact group. Then, carefully insert the component into the printer and proceed to initiate a thorough cleaning cycle. Following this, it is advisable to conduct a nozzle check test. In the event that the outcome is unsatisfactory, an alternative approach is to attempt clearing the ink nozzles by using the air intake hole situated in the cartridge.

Follow these steps to accomplish this:

• Take a medical needle and cut it in half, then attach it to the syringe;
• Put a soft rubber band over the needle to create a secure seal between the syringe and the ink cartridge body;

• Place the air syringe into the opening of the cartridge and firmly push it down to create a secure seal with the rubber band;

• Begin by applying light pressure to the inkwell while placing a toilet paper or tissue underneath;
• as a consequence, the ink should start to emerge from the nozzles;

This technique is also utilized for blowing out the "color" cartridges, which feature 3 holes at their top.