Summary
- Refilling your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw cartridges can save you a significant amount of money over the long term, and it’s a surprisingly simple process.
- Use the funnel provided in the kit to pour the toner powder into the cartridge’s toner hopper.
- Your printer may have a chip that tracks the amount of toner remaining in the cartridge.
Are you tired of constantly replacing your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw printer cartridges? Do you feel like the cost of printing is eating into your budget? If so, you’re not alone. Many people find themselves in this predicament, but there’s a solution: refilling your cartridges! Refilling your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw cartridges can save you a significant amount of money over the long term, and it’s a surprisingly simple process. This blog post will guide you through the steps of refilling your cartridge, ensuring you can continue printing efficiently without breaking the bank.
Gather Your Supplies: What You’ll Need
Before you begin refilling your cartridge, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You will need:
- A compatible toner refill kit: These kits typically include toner powder, a funnel, gloves, and instructions.
- A clean, flat surface: This will be your workspace for the refilling process.
- A small screwdriver: This might be needed to remove the cartridge cover.
- A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment: This is for cleaning up any spilled toner.
- A pair of rubber gloves: These will protect your hands from the toner powder.
- Your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw cartridge: Make sure it’s empty or nearly empty.
Preparing the Cartridge: A Clean Slate for Toner
The first step is to prepare your cartridge for refilling. This involves cleaning it thoroughly to ensure optimal performance and prevent any clogging.
1. Remove the cartridge from your printer: Carefully lift the cartridge out of the printer.
2. Remove the cartridge cover: You may need a small screwdriver to pry open the cover. Be gentle as you don’t want to damage the cartridge.
3. Clean the cartridge: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any excess toner powder or debris. Pay particular attention to the drum and the toner hopper.
4. Replace the cartridge cover: Carefully snap the cover back into place.
Refilling the Cartridge: The Heart of the Operation
Now comes the main event: refilling the toner cartridge. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful refill:
1. Open the toner refill kit: Open the kit and carefully remove the toner powder container.
2. Pour the toner powder: Use the funnel provided in the kit to pour the toner powder into the cartridge’s toner hopper. Avoid spilling any toner powder as it can be messy and difficult to clean.
3. Close the toner hopper: Once the toner hopper is full, close it tightly.
4. Clean up any spills: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean up any toner powder spills.
Resetting the Cartridge: Tricking the Printer
Your printer may have a chip that tracks the amount of toner remaining in the cartridge. This chip might need to be reset after refilling the cartridge. Here are a few methods you can try:
- Using a toner reset tool: Some toner refill kits come with a reset tool that can be used to reset the chip.
- Manually resetting the chip: You can try manually resetting the chip by following instructions specific to your printer model. Search online for “resetting HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw cartridge chip” for guidance.
- Ignoring the chip: In some cases, you can simply ignore the chip and continue printing. The printer may display a low toner warning, but it will still function.
Installing the Refills Cartridge: Back to Business
After refilling and resetting your cartridge, you’re ready to install it back into your printer. Follow these steps:
1. Open the printer cover: Open the printer cover, revealing the cartridge slot.
2. Insert the refilled cartridge: Gently slide the refilled cartridge into the slot, ensuring it’s properly aligned.
3. Close the printer cover: Close the printer cover securely.
Testing the Print Quality: Checking for Success
Once you’ve installed the refilled cartridge, it’s important to test the print quality. Print a test page and check for any streaks, smudges, or other imperfections. If you notice any issues, you may need to adjust the toner density or clean the cartridge again.
The Benefits of Refilling Your Cartridge: A Long-Term Investment
Refilling your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw cartridge offers a multitude of benefits, including:
- Cost savings: Refilling cartridges is significantly cheaper than purchasing new ones, saving you money in the long run.
- Reduced waste: By refilling cartridges, you’re reducing the amount of waste going to landfills.
- Environmental impact: Refilling cartridges helps conserve resources and reduces the environmental impact of manufacturing new ones.
- Improved printing quality: Properly refilled cartridges can produce prints that are just as good as new ones.
Final Thoughts: Printing Smart, Saving Money
Refilling your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw cartridge is a smart and economical way to keep your printer running smoothly. It’s a simple process that anyone can do, and the benefits are significant. By taking the time to refill your cartridges, you’ll save money, reduce waste, and enjoy high-quality prints for years to come.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: How often should I refill my HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw cartridge?
A: The frequency of refilling depends on your printing volume. Generally, you can expect to refill your cartridge every few months.
Q: Is it safe to refill my own cartridges?
A: Yes, it’s perfectly safe to refill your own cartridges as long as you follow the instructions carefully and use a high-quality toner refill kit.
Q: What if my cartridge has a chip that can’t be reset?
A: In this case, you may need to purchase a new chip or ignore the chip altogether. The printer may display a low toner warning, but it will still function.
Q: Where can I buy toner refill kits?
A: You can find toner refill kits online or at local office supply stores. Make sure to purchase a kit that’s compatible with your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw cartridge.
Q: What if I spill toner powder during the refilling process?
A: Clean up any spills immediately using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. Avoid inhaling the toner powder as it can be harmful.