Unsure whether a toner cartridge has been used already? In a busy office space, or even at home, it’s easy to find yourself wondering whether or not a cartridge has been used. In general, you should avoid using a toner cartridge if you are at all unsure about whether it’s safe for your printer. But toner is a precious commodity, and it’d be a shame to let any go to waste.
Let’s look at the tell-tale signs of whether a toner cartridge has been used before, and whether it’s safe for your printer.
Intact Packaging
The first step is to check the external packaging. This is going to be your first sign as to whether or not your toner cartridges have been opened or used. Look for anything that tells you that someone might have opened the packaging and closed it back up. But also, don’t panic if it looks like that might have happened. Busy offices tend to see people making mistakes and opening the wrong box all the time – if that seems like it might be the case for you, the next step is to check the seals.
Check the Seals of Your Toner Cartridge
Toner cartridges of all kinds will come with seals over their ports – these cartridge seals are the most important detail to be looking for when inspecting a cartridge. They’re what protect the fine toner dust from any moisture or adulterants and ensure that your cartridge is feeding your printer cleanly.
If you find that the seals on your toner cartridge are not intact, and you can’t be sure that it was opened recently by a co-worker or anyone else that uses your printer, you likely shouldn’t risk using that cartridge. If those seals are intact however, even if the external packaging was opened, they’re most likely good to go!
Why Might a Used Toner Cartridge Be Dangerous?
Toner is a brilliant product. It makes it quick and simple to achieve great results on printing jobs without too much fuss. But toner cartridges that have been left unsealed and open to the air can pick up moisture and form into clogs. These clogs can become an issue for your printer, jamming up the delicate mechanisms that make LaserJet printing possible.
It’s important to note too that the fine dust particles that make for such a great finish once on the page are not something you want airborne around you. Breathing in toner is not good for your health. When you’re inspecting a cartridge, even if you suspect it to be used and empty, you should be careful to avoid spilling or agitating toner into the air you’re breathing.
Shop for New Toner Cartridges Online with TonerCity
If your toner cartridge really does look like it’s past the point of no return, then it might be time you stocked up on toner cartridges here online with TonerCity! We’re the online printing supplies retailer giving more Australians access to brand name printer cartridges at rock bottom prices. With free shipping on orders exceeding $50, it’s never been easier to get the supplies you need.
For any questions or queries, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 1300 330 242 or email us at sales@tonercity.com.au today!