Key points
- Once all the cartridges are out, place them in a trash bag or recycling bin for proper disposal.
- Align the colored tab on each cartridge with the corresponding slot in the printer.
- The frequency of ink cartridge changes depends on your printing volume and the types of documents you print.
Are you staring at a blank page on your Canon PIXMA MG3650, wondering how to fix the dreaded “ink low” message? Don’t worry, changing an ink cartridge on your PIXMA MG3650 is a breeze! This guide will walk you through the entire process, from unboxing your new cartridges to getting back to printing with vibrant colors.
Getting Started: Gathering Your Supplies
Before we dive into the steps, let’s make sure you have everything you need:
- New Canon PIXMA MG3650 ink cartridges: Make sure you have the correct cartridges for your printer model. You’ll need one black cartridge (PG-245) and three color cartridges (CL-246) for your PIXMA MG3650.
- A clean, dry surface: This will protect your cartridges from dust and debris.
- A trash bag or recycling bin: To dispose of the old cartridges properly.
1. Power Up and Open the Cartridge Cover
Begin by powering on your Canon PIXMA MG3650. Once the printer is ready, gently lift the top cover of the printer. This will reveal the ink cartridge compartments.
2. Unlocking the Cartridges
You’ll see a lever on the right side of the cartridge compartment. Gently push this lever to the left. This will release the ink cartridges, allowing you to remove them.
3. Removing the Old Cartridges
Carefully lift each old cartridge out of its slot by gently pulling up on the colored tab. Don’t pull on the ink cartridge itself, as this can damage it. Once all the cartridges are out, place them in a trash bag or recycling bin for proper disposal.
4. Preparing the New Cartridges
Before installing your new cartridges, remove the orange protective tape from each one. This tape helps prevent the ink from drying out during storage.
5. Installing the New Cartridges
Now, it’s time to install your new cartridges. Align the colored tab on each cartridge with the corresponding slot in the printer. Gently push each cartridge down until it clicks into place. Make sure each cartridge is seated properly.
6. Closing the Cover and Checking Ink Levels
Once all the cartridges are installed, close the top cover of the printer. The printer will automatically align the cartridges and check the ink levels. You may see a message on the LCD screen indicating the ink levels.
7. Printing a Test Page
To ensure everything is working correctly, print a test page. You can access the test page option through the printer’s menu.
Ready to Print!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully changed the ink cartridges in your Canon PIXMA MG3650. Now you can enjoy crisp, vibrant prints for all your projects.
Beyond the Basics: Tips for Ink Cartridge Care
- Store cartridges properly: Store unused cartridges in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
- Don’t force cartridges: If a cartridge is difficult to remove or install, don’t force it. This can damage the cartridge or the printer.
- Use genuine Canon cartridges: Using non-genuine cartridges can affect print quality and may void your printer warranty.
- Regularly clean the print head: Cleaning the print head can help prevent clogging and maintain optimal print quality.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. How often should I change my ink cartridges?
The frequency of ink cartridge changes depends on your printing volume and the types of documents you print. Generally, you can expect to change your cartridges every few months.
2. Can I use different brands of ink cartridges?
While you can use non-genuine cartridges, it’s not recommended. Non-genuine cartridges can affect print quality and may void your printer warranty.
3. What should I do if my printer shows an error message during the process?
If you encounter an error message, consult your printer’s user manual or contact Canon support for assistance.
4. How do I dispose of old ink cartridges?
Dispose of old cartridges responsibly by recycling them or following local regulations for hazardous waste disposal.
5. Can I refill the ink cartridges?
While refilling cartridges is possible, it’s not always recommended. Refilling can affect print quality and may void your printer warranty.