On 16/05/2021 20:04, Jeff Layman wrote:
On 16/05/2021 17:58, Max Demian wrote:
On 16/05/2021 16:52, Jeff Layman wrote:
Anyone tried removing partially-used colour cartridges from HP or Canon
inkjet printers and storing them in sealed containers to stop them
drying out?

I'm just about to chuck out my Epson XP-325 as it won't turn on (I spent
two hours this morning cleaning a blocked yellow print head, and just
before printing the test sheet after a clean it just died. I can't find
a way of getting it apart and seeing if the smps has gone south. It's
snap fit with the odd screw). I'll replace it with an HP or Canon.

Epsons have cartridges without print heads, but HPs and Canons have them
integral with the cartridge. That means only the cartridge gets chucked
if the blockage can't be removed, but if the cartridge could be
prevented from drying out with only very intermittent use, that would be
an advantage.

I had an Epson I had to throw away as it was out of use for a year and
the heads dried out. Silly idea not to include the heads in the
cartridges as I don't think you could buy the heads separately.

Why do you want to take the cartridge(s) out?

From what I understand, inkjet print heads are of identical design,
it's just that HP and Canon put them in the cartridge, while Epson has a
separate print head. They all eventually dry up and block if not used
enough. With an Epson, that might mean a new printer, but with the other
two just a new cartridge. I was wondering if it would be possible to
take out the cartridge after use and perhaps put it in a sealed jar or
wrap it in clingfilm to keep it damp and so stop it drying out.


They seem to use water and glycol mixture in inkjet ink, same with
printer head cleaning fluid.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/PRINTER-CLE.../dp/B001EN9W2Y

Put some in a jar and immerse the head in it.

Use my HP ENVY 4520 once or twice every 6 months and so far and no
blockage after 4 years.