Storing printer for 18 months

[jrandsk]

We're about to travel for 18 months and want to store our printer while away.  I have the original box and ploystyrene packing, so want advice on repackaging securely - I can find help for smaller printers, but not the 8630.  Also, should I remove the ink cartridges.  Assistance would be most appreciated  John

[Bob_Headrick · Accepted solution]

The cartridges should be stored in the printer.  Be sure to turn the printer off from its power switch and let the printer get things "parked" before unplugging the printer.  Store the printer in a location not subject to large temperature swings.  I would not put the printer back in its original packaging,  If you do make sure you keep the printer oriented as it would be on a desk - the package has a normal orientation that has the printer on its side, this should be avoided as ink from the service area may leak out.  If the printer is going into a storage facility you may want to put it in its original package, but be sure to orient the printer "flat".

I had an extra Officejet 8600 Plus (same inks and printheads as yours) that I set up, then set aside for a full year.  I was surprised, but the first print after bringing it out of storage printed without needing any fussing at all - no manual cleaning or running cleaning cycles was needed.  I actually expected that I would need to run a few cleaning cycles from the front panel, or perhaps even remove the printhead and soak it.  I had the printer stored in a spare bedroom, out of direct sunlight and away from heat vents.

[jrandsk]

Thanks very much for your prompt response - will pack in original as I still have it all, but will mark the box very clearly to ensure the printer stays upright.  John