Refillable ink cartridges - for HP printers Updated November 2008
Most HP (original) printer cartridges with printhead are quite easy to refill and there is no need for refillable cartridges. You can find refill kits for HP #15, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 27, 28, 29, 41, 49, 56, 57, 58, 59, 78, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 99 and more...here.
Some of the more recent individual cartridges with separate print head (eg. # 02, 10, 11, 12, 82, 88) are much harder to fill. These cartridges come fitted with "ink level" IC chips. When a new (full) cartridge is fitted, printer reads a code, that is on the chip and records it. As the ink cartridge is used, the printer software works out how much ink is left in it. When a cartridge is almost out of ink, the printer is programmed to display an error message and stop printing.
If you refill one of these ink cartridges, the printer remembers it (as empty) and will not accept it. Even if you refill the cartridge before it is empty, it makes zero difference. The chip will still go "empty" at the same rate, regardless of the actual ink level. There is no relationship between how much ink is in the cartridge and the displayed (chip) ink level.
Some model HP printers give you the option of switching off the ink monitoring, others don't. If you switch the monitor off, you can keep printing, but have to be careful not to run out of ink. The printer will keep printing, even when the ink cartridges are empty. This can overheat the printhead and result in premature failure. Printheads aren't cheap...
Fortunately, you can now buy HP compatible (not made by HP) ink cartridges, designed for refilling. They are easy to fill and come fitted with "always full" automatic resetting ink level chips (ARC). There's no need for chip resetter or any software. "Ink gauge" in the software is disabled when ARC cartridges are fitted and you have to check the cartridges to see how much ink you have. The cartridges are transparent, so it's no hassle to take a look every now and again or top them up when you feel they might be getting low.
If you own a HP printer using any of the # 02, 10, 11, 12, 82 or 88 series cartridges and are looking for an affordable ink alternative to HP original ink cartridges, consider the refillables. You will be impressed...
Refilling Hp ink cartridge doesn't get any easier - than:
1) Pull out a rubber plug 2) Inject ink (using syringe) to 3/4 full 3) Replace the plug ...and continue printing
Refill friendly ink cartridges are now available for many HP printers, including:
Note: The # 02 cartridges also fit HP Photosmart C5180, C6160, D6180, C6270, D7160, C7180, D7360 and more...but few people have had issues with the C5180, C6180 & C7180 printers. Photosmart C3110, C3310 and 8230 are ok. Not sure about 6160, 6270, 7160 or 7360 at this stage.
Some features:
Very easy to fill, using just a syringe and a drawing-up (blunt) needle
Fill hole and plug already in place - no drilling necessary
Compatible "always full" or "auto-reset" chip fitted
"No sponge" construction prevents air locks and foaming up of ink
See through design lets you see exactly how much ink there is inside
Refill in or out of printer
The cartridges are available in sets, individually (replacement only) or for the best value, check out the cartridge / tools / ink "deals". Refill friendly cartridges should only be fitted as a full set...don't mix the refillables with compatible or original ink.
Most people find the refill friendly cartridges a breeze to fill (as you'd expect...), easy to deal with and reliable. They fit ok and are virtually trouble free. If you do experience any problems, please contact us and we will replace either the cartridge or chip, free of charge. Make sure you read note (above) about Photosmart C5180, C6160, D6180, C6270, D7160, D7360, C7180 etc.
HP refillable cartridge chips have an expiry date, usually 30 months from installation. When the expiry date is getting close, (about 2 weeks), it triggers "Ink is close to expiration " warning. Clicking "Cancel" or "OK" clears the message, but it will be back next time you print. This goes on until the actual expiration date, then the message changes to "Ink has expired". After you "OK" this message, it should go away and stop appearing. If not or if the printer refuses to work, you have to either get a new set of cartridges, disable the expiration monitor or forward the system date and continue using the cartridges you have.
Find refill friendly compatible cartridges for your HP printer below... If you can't, please contact us.