Question: How can I fix my printer's ink cartridge if it's leaking from the bottom after I refill it?

Question: 

How can I fix my printer's ink cartridge if it's leaking from the bottom after I refill it?

Answer:

It appears the issue with your leaking cartridge, especially after a refill, could be related to the improper sealing of the cartridge's cover or an issue with the cartridge's fit. When air comes out of the bottom nozzle during the underwater air pressure test, it suggests that the syringe may not have been pressed too hard, but rather that there's a sealing issue. To address this, consider the following steps for troubleshooting and fixing your cartridge:

  1. Inspect the Cartridge Cover: Ensure that the cover is properly installed. If it doesn't fit after installation, there might be an alignment or fitting issue that needs correction.
  2. Use Tape for a Temporary Seal: Apply a piece of tape over the nozzle area, with the non-sticky part facing the printer. This can help prevent leaks temporarily while you work on a more permanent solution.
  3. Employ a More Permanent Seal: Carefully cut off the top portion of the cartridge using a precision knife. Make sure to follow proper safety protocols to avoid damaging the cartridge or injuring yourself. After cutting, remove any unnecessary pieces to prepare the surface for sealing.
  4. Apply Super Glue for Sealing: Seal the cut area with super glue, focusing on any gaps. For larger gaps, use a thicker super glue gel that's suitable for sealing leaks. Allow the glue to dry for at least 12 hours.
  5. Test for Leaks Again: After the glue has dried, perform the underwater test again by blowing air into the air hole to check for leaks. Note that there are two kinds of holes: the large refill hole with color plugs and the small white air hole next to each refill hole. Use a syringe to blow 1 ml of air into the hole. While doing this, put the cartridge under water, and you will see air bubbles coming out from the bottom (nozzle) of the cartridge. If air leaks from the cover, it indicates a need for further sealing. If leaks persist, apply additional super glue gel to the affected areas and wait another 12 hours before retesting.
  6. Refill and Clean the Cartridge: Once the cartridge is airtight, refill it with ink. Perform a cleaning cycle on your printer to ensure that the ink flows smoothly and that there are no clogs in the print head.

Remember, working with ink cartridges and super glue requires caution and precision. If you're not comfortable performing these repairs yourself, consider seeking professional help from a printer maintenance service.