You should change your ink cartridge when your printer indicates it is completely empty, not when it first warns you of low ink.
According to the video reference provided, the key is to wait for the printer to explicitly tell you the cartridge is empty. Many printers provide a "low ink" warning well before the cartridge is actually depleted.
Why Wait Until the Cartridge is Empty?
Changing a cartridge as soon as you see a "low ink" notification can lead to wasted ink. The reference highlights this point:
- Avoid Waste: When you receive a low ink warning, there is typically still a significant amount of ink remaining in the cartridge.
- Maximize Cartridge Life: By waiting until the printer signals the cartridge is truly empty, you ensure you use as much ink as possible from each cartridge.
What to Look For
Instead of replacing based on a general low ink alert, watch for these signs:
- A clear message on your printer's display or computer software stating the specific cartridge is empty.
- A sudden decline in print quality, such as streaks, faded colors, or missing sections, which can indicate an empty cartridge (though sometimes other issues can cause this).
- The printer refusing to print and specifically identifying an empty cartridge as the reason.
Steps to Take
- Ignore Initial Low Ink Warnings: Continue printing after receiving a low ink notification.
- Monitor Print Quality: Pay attention to how your documents look.
- Wait for the "Empty" Signal: Replace the cartridge only when the printer indicates it is empty or print quality deteriorates significantly due to lack of ink.
By following this simple rule, you can save money and get the most value out of your ink cartridges.
