Removing and reinstallng ink cartridges to store in warm place during winter.

[dsttexas]

Just bought a 9015e printer and installed fine, in my Maine vacation home. We shut it down completely during the freezing winter months and I want to remove the ink cartridges and take with home to Texas, then bring them back for next summer. Is there anything special I need to do such seal the port to keep ink from drying out?

[zoey7886]

@dsttexas, Welcome to the HP Support Community!  

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding Remove and Store Ink Cartridges! 

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.  

When storing ink cartridges, especially in a location with extreme temperatures such as a vacation home in Maine during freezing winter months, it’s important to preserve their condition to ensure optimal functionality when you reinstall them. Here are some steps you can follow to properly store your HP ink cartridges:

Steps to Remove and Store Ink Cartridges:

Power Down the Printer Properly: Ensure the printer is properly powered off before removing the ink cartridges. This usually prevents any damage to the cartridges or the printhead.

Remove Ink Cartridges: Open the ink access door and remove the ink cartridges carefully, ensuring you do not touch the ink nozzles or contacts as these may get damaged and affect performance.

Prepare for Storage:

• Reseal Ink Nozzles: Use the original tape or packaging that came with the cartridges to reseal the ink nozzles if possible. This can help prevent them from drying out.
• Protective Bag: Place the cartridges in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container to maintain humidity levels.
• Humidity Maintenance: Store the bag or container with some silica gel packets to maintain proper humidity. Dry conditions can cause ink to dry out.

Ideal Storage Conditions: Store the cartridges in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, ideally at room temperature. Avoid places where temperature fluctuates significantly.

Reinstalling: When returning to your vacation home next summer:

• Inspect Cartridges: Check for any visible damage or dried ink.
• Clean Contacts: Gently clean the electrical contacts with a lint-free cloth before reinstalling.
• Run an Alignment: After reinstalling, ensure to print a test page and run a printer alignment for the best print quality.  

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards,

[dsttexas1]

Sounds good.

I do not have the original tape that covered the nozzles. What else would work?  Scotch tape, masking tape, Seran wrap?

Don

[zoey7886 · Accepted solution]

@dsttexas, Since you don’t have the original protective tape that came on the cartridges, you’ll want to be careful with substitutes so you don’t damage the nozzles or contacts. Here are safe alternatives:

What to Use Instead of Original Tape:

Plastic Wrap (Saran Wrap/Cling Film):
Wrap a small piece gently over the nozzle area and secure it with a bit of tape around the plastic body of the cartridge (not on the nozzle or contacts). This prevents drying while avoiding adhesive residue.

Resealable Plastic Bag (Ziploc-style):
Place each cartridge in its own small bag, squeeze out excess air, and seal it. This is often enough on its own if the bag is airtight.

Specialty Cartridge Clips (if available):
Some office supply stores sell generic “cartridge clips” that cover the nozzles. These are reusable and made for storage.

What to Avoid:

Scotch Tape, Masking Tape, or Packing Tape directly on nozzles/contacts – adhesives can leave residue, clogging or damaging the printhead.

Leaving them uncovered – they’ll dry out quickly.

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards,