How to Change the Ink in an HP Printer: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you've noticed faded prints, streaks, or a low-ink warning on your HP printer, it's time to swap in a fresh cartridge. The good news: changing ink in most HP printers takes just a few minutes once you know where to look. This guide walks you through the process for the most common HP inkjet models, from the OfficeJet and Envy lines to the DeskJet series.

Before You Start

Make sure you have the correct replacement cartridge for your printer. The cartridge number is printed on the front of your old cartridge or listed in your printer's manual. Common HP cartridge families include 60, 62, 63, 64, 65, 67, 902, 910, and 952. Using the wrong cartridge can prevent your printer from recognizing it.

Step 1: Power On the Printer

Turn your HP printer on and wait until it is idle and quiet. Do not unplug it — the carriage needs power to move into the access position when you open the cover.

Step 2: Open the Cartridge Access Door

Lift the front cover or cartridge access door. The ink carriage will slide to the center of the printer so you can reach the cartridges. Wait for it to come to a complete stop before touching anything.

Step 3: Remove the Old Cartridge

Press down gently on the top of the cartridge you want to replace. It will pop forward in its slot. Pull the cartridge straight out toward you and set it aside for recycling.

Step 4: Unpack and Prep the New Cartridge

Take the new cartridge out of its packaging. Pull the plastic tab to remove the protective tape covering the copper contacts and ink nozzles. Be careful not to touch the contacts or nozzles with your fingers, as skin oils can cause print quality problems.

Step 5: Insert the New Cartridge

Slide the cartridge into the empty slot at a slight upward angle, with the contacts facing in. Push it forward gently until it clicks into place. Black cartridges go in the right slot on most HP models; tri-color or photo cartridges go on the left.

Step 6: Close the Cover and Align

Close the access door. Your HP printer will usually print an alignment page automatically. Follow the on-screen prompts to scan or confirm the alignment so your prints come out crisp.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your printer doesn't recognize the new cartridge, remove it, wipe the copper contacts with a lint-free cloth, and reinsert it. Still no luck? Power-cycle the printer by turning it off, unplugging it for 60 seconds, and plugging it back in.

Save on HP Ink

HP-brand cartridges can be expensive, but you don't have to pay full retail. Castle Ink's remanufactured and compatible HP cartridges deliver the same page yield at a fraction of the price — and they're backed by a one-year quality guarantee.