How do I know if my ink cartridge is expired?

Expiration Dates The date on the side of the ink cartridge package or the cartridge itself only indicates the warranty end date. Determining the expiration date requires an analysis of the ink level, the warranty date and the installation date of the cartridge.

What happens if a cartridge is expired?

Once the expiration date has passed, the ink no longer produces the same way it was designed to. With air working its way into the cartridge, it can dissolve into the ink carrier or the ink itself can become sludgy which goes on to clog your printer and print head and produce crappy prints.

Does ink have an expiration date?

The product’s manufacturer and how you store your cartridges can also affect the toner’s lifespan. Ink expiration dates are built-in, established dates, after which ink cartridges might no longer work properly. If there is still ink left in the cartridge on that date, it will cause your printer to shut down.

How do you store unopened ink cartridges?

Keep Cartridges in Sealed Bags Since moisture control is key when learning how to store ink cartridges when not in use, you can place any cartridges still in their original packaging in a plastic sealable bag. Importantly, ensure that it is sealed by fastening it with an elastic band.

Does unopened printer ink expire?

If your cartridge is stored properly in the correct environment, you might still be able to use it after the expiration date. Granted, a sealed ink cartridge won’t last forever, but most are designed to last for at least two years after the purchase date.

How long can printer cartridges be stored?

Over time, air can get inside the box and antistatic bag in which manufacturers package cartridges, and degrade the ink or toner’s composition. Nevertheless, you can usually still use cartridges from unopened packaging up to about two years after purchase if you store them properly.

How long should ink cartridges last?

2 year
If your wondering how long ink cartridges or toner lasts before they expire or ink dries up, ink cartridges are manufactured with a 2 year expiry date. When you get close to two years, the ink sponge inside the cartridge can start to dry up.

How long will unopened ink cartridges last?

The shelf life for an original printer cartridge is 24 months and the shelf life for a compatible cartridge is 36 months. Over time, ink dries out and settles inside the cartridge, which can cause your printer to clog.

How long do expired ink cartridges last?

around two years
The shelf life of an ink cartridge is indicated by its expiration date. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) inks typically have a shelf life of around two years. Compatible inks, on the other hand, generally have a shelf life up to three years.

How long can you store unopened ink cartridges?

about two years
Over time, air can get inside the box and antistatic bag in which manufacturers package cartridges, and degrade the ink or toner’s composition. Nevertheless, you can usually still use cartridges from unopened packaging up to about two years after purchase if you store them properly.

Does printer ink dry out if not used?

Cartridges can also dry up if they are not used properly. To get the most out of your printer cartridge, make sure it remains sealed and is stored upright in a cool, dark space like a desk cupboard. Once installed, be sure that you run a print job at least once every couple of weeks to keep the cartridge primed.

Does ink cartridge dry up?

Ink cartridges can dry out if they are sitting idle in your printer for an extended period of time. The best way to prevent an ink cartridge from drying out is by running a small print job every week, this keeps your cartridge primed.