How to Troubleshoot Black Ink Smearing with Highlighters on Canon Printers

The Problem of Black Ink Smearing

A typical cause of black ink smearing is the use of inappropriate ink types for a specific printing task. Canon printers, like the iP4300, use both pigment-based and dye-based inks. Pigment inks are generally used for text, providing durability and water resistance, while dye-based inks are for photo printing, offering vibrant colors but less resistance to smearing.

If you've recently refilled your ink cartridges and noticed smearing when using a highlighter, consider these potential causes:

1. Incorrect Ink Type: If the ink used for text printing is dye-based instead of pigment-based, it is more prone to smearing.
2. Old Ink: Ink that has been sitting for a long time may have degraded, affecting its performance and leading to smearing.
3. Improper Cartridge Flushing: Old sponges in ink cartridges or residue from previous inks can cause contamination and affect the quality of new ink.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix Ink Smearing

Here is a set of steps you can follow to address the problem of ink smearing:

1. Identify the Ink Type: Determine if the black ink you are using is pigment-based or dye-based. Canon typically uses "BK" for dye-based and "PGBK" for pigment-based ink. If you have mixed these up, purge the cartridge and refill with the appropriate ink.
2. Flush the Cartridge: If you suspect the cartridge is contaminated, flush it with warm water to remove old ink and residue. This can be done by removing the cartridge, running it under warm water, and continuing until the water runs clear.
3. Refill with Fresh Ink: Refill the cartridge with the correct type of fresh ink. Ensure that you use pigment-based ink for text printing and dye-based for photo printing.
4. Test Your Printer: After refilling, print a full-page black test page on the "High" setting. Check if the ink smearing issue persists when using a highlighter.
5. Ensure Consistent Ink Source: Stick to reputable ink sources to avoid potential issues with refilled cartridges. Keep track of your ink's age and consider replacing it if it's too old.

Additional Support

If these steps do not resolve the smearing issue, consider exploring other troubleshooting guides on BCH Technologies' YouTube channel or visit their local store in Greensboro, North Carolina. They offer valuable insights into printer maintenance and can guide you through more complex troubleshooting processes.

For more tips and technical advice on inkjet printing, be sure to follow the BCH Technologies YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies and read their technology blog for the latest updates and how-to guides.