Printer ink cartridges are important office supplies, so you want yours to remain reliable and last their entire life span. Dried-out cartridges can cause many problems, including streaks and clogged nozzle heads. Thankfully, there are quite a few steps you can take to keep them in good condition. Here's what you need to know. 

How to Keep Ink Cartridges from Drying Out

1. Store Them Properly

Whether you store them in drawers or closets, ink cartridges should always be upright. If they're on their sides or upside down, they could leak and slowly dry out. The space should also be dark and dry. Bright lights, direct sunlight, and excessive moisture can degrade the overall ink quality.

2. Maintain Mild Temperatures

The ambient temperature of the room should be around 68 degrees and stay that way. If it fluctuates between extremely warm and freezing, the changes can shock the cartridges. Aside from preserving the ink, keeping temperatures within a moderate range will be the most comfortable for a majority of employees. 

3. Print Every Week

Finally, simply using the printer helps prevent a dried-out cartridge. At least once a week, have an employee print out a few pages that incorporate all colors, as anything underutilized will dry up. Alternatively, use the testing options provided in the printer maintenance settings. Not only will frequent usage protect all colors, but it will also reveal if you need to have the nozzle head cleaned or realigned. 

If you need new ink cartridges for your printers, visit Alpha Laser Richmond Corp. Located in Staten Island, they offer high-quality ink and toner to businesses across all five boroughs of NYC. They also have technicians offering printer maintenance and repair services. See what they have in stock on their website, or call (718) 317-1263 if you have any questions.