When should I replace my printer cartridge?

Posted by Adrian Rigby on March 28, 2023

Laser printers use toner cartridges which typically last a lot longer than ink cartridges, but just how long do they last? Well, it is hard to say exactly. It depends on a range of factors, including how much you print and how often.

You can use your toner cartridges for longer, and save a lot of money over time, by not replacing them too soon. Just because the printer has notified you that the toner is running low, does not mean the cartridge needs replacing.

Knowing when is the best time to replace your printer cartridge can save you a lot of money over time. Avoid swapping out toner cartridges too early with this guide.

How to know when toner is running low

Printers typically alert you of low toner levels when the supply is at around 10% to 20%. This does not mean it is time to change the cartridge.

If you do not print much or often, then the remaining toner could last a considerable amount of time and even print thousands more documents before it truly runs out.

Instead of replacing your cartridges when the alert appears, keep an eye out for streaky, discoloured or faded print-outs - these are signs that your printer cartridge is running out of toner.

How to extend the life of your printer cartridges

There are a few ways that you can prolong the life of your toner cartridges to ensure you get better value for money.

You can extend the life of printer cartridges with proper care and maintenance. Dust and clean inside your printer regularly, and ensure that spare cartridges are stored properly.

Also consider reducing toner consumption by using a finer font, printing less images, and printing using draft mode.

When you start to notice signs that your printer cartridge is almost empty, take it out of the printer and gently rock it from side to side. This will help to re-distribute any toner that is left in the cartridge which may allow you to print a few more pages.

What type of toner do I need

When it comes to replacing your toner cartridge, it is imperative that you know what type your printer requires. Different cartridges are compatible with different printers.

Make sure you take a look at the toner cartridge you are taking out and note down the code which is printed on it. Ensure that the replacement toner also has the same code. The brand does not necessarily need to be the same - just the code.

When ordering your toner cartridges, check whether there is a high-yield alternative. These will be the same size as the standard cartridge, but print more per cartridge. A high-yield cartridge can print on 25,000 to 40,000 printed pages, compared to only 10,000 to 12,000 pages with a standard cartridge.

Here at A B Cartridges, we offer a wide range of standard and high-yield cartridges that are quality tested and come with a 100% no quibble guarantee for added peace of mind.

For help with selecting the correct and best toner cartridge for your printer, get in touch with A B Cartridges on 01522 683460, or email us at admin@abcartridges.co.uk.

Our team of experts will be happy to help you to identify the correct type of cartridge for your printer and to select the best cartridges for your printing needs.