How to Refill Original HP Envy 6032e Starter Cartridges and Fix Low Ink Reading Issues

Question:
I recently bought BCH Technologies' ink refilling kit and syringes after watching your videos. I refilled both the black and color cartridges on my HP Envy 6032e (original starter cartridges) and reset the printer using the normal process. However, the printer still shows that the cartridges are almost empty, and the black one doesn't print at all. Can you please show me how to refill the original starter cartridges? I'm new to this, so a step-by-step explanation would really help.

Answer:

Let's go over your situation. You're using HP Envy 6032e original starter cartridges, which are the ones that came with your printer. While these can be refilled, there are a few limitations and important steps to follow.

1. Understanding Starter Cartridges

Starter cartridges from HP are designed for limited use. They often contain non-resettable chips and smaller internal ink sponges than standard or XL cartridges. This means that even after refilling, your printer may still display "low ink" or "empty cartridge" warnings. Unfortunately, this is a software limitation-HP's system identifies cartridges by a unique ID code stored in the cartridge chip. Once a cartridge has been used, the printer remembers that ID, so simply refilling it doesn't make the printer think it's new.

2. Fixing "Low Ink" or "Empty Cartridge" Warnings

To work around this issue, you'll need to rotate multiple sets of cartridges. Having at least two or three sets allows you to alternate them in and out of your printer. When you insert a different cartridge, the printer recognizes a new ID, which can help "reset" the ink level monitoring system. After switching back, the refilled cartridge is often recognized as full again.

Here's what you can try:

1. Refill the starter cartridge as usual.

2. Remove it and insert another used cartridge (even if it's empty).

3. Print a test page.

4. Then, reinsert the refilled cartridge.

This process may trick the printer into accepting the refilled cartridge as new.

3. Getting the Black Cartridge to Print

If the black cartridge doesn't print after refilling, here are the most common causes:

• Air Bubbles: During refilling, trapped air can block ink from reaching the printhead. To fix this, use the syringe to gently draw a small amount of ink out from the refill hole-if air is present, you'll hear a hiss before the ink comes out smoothly.

• Clogged Nozzles: If the cartridge sat unused for a while, dried ink can block the printhead. Soak the printhead (the metal plate at the bottom of the cartridge) in a shallow layer of warm, distilled water or BCH's printhead cleaning solution for 10-15 minutes. Pat it dry before reinstalling.

• Electrical Contact Issues: Make sure the gold contacts on the cartridge and printer are clean. Use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol to wipe them gently.

4. Proper Refilling Technique

For beginners, it's crucial to fill slowly and avoid overfilling. Insert the syringe into the refill hole (usually located under the label) about half an inch deep. Inject ink slowly until you see a little resistance or a slight bead of ink appears at the top-then stop. Overfilling can cause leaks and pressure buildup.

HP starter cartridges generally take about:

• 4-5 ml of black ink

• 2-3 ml per color (cyan, magenta, yellow)

After refilling, let the cartridges sit for a few minutes to allow pressure to stabilize before reinstalling them.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're unable to offer remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or repair support. However, BCH Technologies provides in-person printer evaluations and repairs through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, service is handled on a first-come, first-served basis, and there might be a waiting period before we can take in your printer. We repair either full printers or specific components with clear instructions on how to proceed. While our repair rates may not be the most affordable, we encourage self-help through online resources. You can start by exploring our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to the "About" tab on the right-hand side to find specific tutorials. We've produced hundreds of videos over the years, and this method will help you find exactly what you need faster.

Thank you again for reaching out and for supporting BCH Technologies. We truly appreciate your patience and enthusiasm in learning to maintain and refill your own cartridges-it's a valuable skill that will save you money and help reduce waste in the long run.