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FAQs

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Setup & Compatibility

I noticed it says “no chip included.” What does that mean for setup?

These cartridges don’t come with a chip, so you’ll need to reuse the chip from your original HP 923 cartridge. Simply remove the chip from your old cartridge (gently, using a small tool) and attach it to the new one.

I tried transferring the chip, but my printer still won’t recognize the cartridge. What should I do?

First, check if the chip is securely attached (it should click into place). If that doesn’t work, clean the chip’s metal contacts with a dry cloth—dust can block recognition. If issues persist, contact our support team with your printer model and update version.

The chip broke when I tried to remove it from my old cartridge. Is there a replacement?

We don’t sell standalone chips. If the chip break happened during your first use, contact us—we may offer a partial refund to help offset the cost of a new original cartridge for the chip.

What if the ink leaks after transferring the chip?

Our cartridges are sealed to prevent leaks, but improper chip installation can cause issues. If you notice leaks, remove the cartridge, check the seal, and reattach the chip more carefully. If leaking continues, contact support with photos—we’ll replace the set if needed.

How do I check if my HP printer has HP+ activated?

Go to your printer’s settings menu > select “HP+ Services” or “Subscription Settings.” If you see options like “HP+ Status: Active,” then it’s enabled. For unactivated printers, this section will prompt you to set it up.

Are there any "e" models that can use these cartridges?

Only if the “e” model has never had HP+ activated and HP+ is permanently disabled. However, most “e” models come with HP+ pre-installed as a default, so compatibility is rare. We recommend confirming your printer’s HP+ status first.

Can I use these cartridges in an OfficeJet 9018e with HP+ activated?

Yes, these are specially formulated to work with HP+ activated “e-series printers. Unlike generic cartridges, they won’t be blocked by HP’s subscription locks, ensuring consistent performance.

Firmware & Updates

What if my printer stops recognizing the cartridges after an update?

Contact us immediately! If a firmware update causes issues, we’ll send replacement cartridges optimized for the new firmware at no extra cost. Just let our support team know your printer model and update version.

My printer keeps prompting for a firmware update. Should I install it?

We recommend disabling automatic firmware updates in your printer settings. Epson sometimes updates firmware to block third-party cartridges, which could make them incompatible. Check your printer model and update version before proceeding.

Should I turn off firmware updates on my printer?

Yes! We recommend disabling automatic firmware updates to prevent compatibility issues. HP sometimes pushes updates that block third-party cartridges. To disable: Go to “Settings” > “Advanced Settings” > “Printer Update” > turn off “Auto Update.”

I forgot to disable firmware updates, and now my printer won't recognize the cartridges. Can you assist?

Yes! Contact our support with your printer model and last update date. We often have solutions or updated cartridges that work with newer firmware—we’ll help resolve it.
Contact Us:(+1)2019031058
support@starinkshop.com

What if I don't disable firmware updates?

A firmware update could make your printer suddenly reject the cartridges, showing errors like “Invalid Cartridge”. If this happens, contact us—we can help troubleshoot or send updated cartridges if available.

Ink Levels & Usage

My printer shows an “ink low” warning, but the cartridge still has ink. Is this normal?

Yes, that’s common with compatible cartridges. The warning is triggered by the chip’s estimate, not actual ink levels. You can keep printing until quality fades—just don’t harm your printer.

If I print only in black and white, will the color cartridges still deplete?

In most Canon printers, color cartridges are used for occasional calibration, but minimal ink is consumed. If you set your printer to “Black Only” mode, color usage drops significantly—you’ll get the full life from your color cartridges.

Why do my cartridges show four question marks (????) for ink levels?

This is normal! Our compatible LC3033 cartridges don’t display ink levels on the printer’s screen—the “????” indicator is expected and won’t affect printing. To check real-time ink levels, use Brother’s printer status software on your computer.

How do I check ink levels on my computer if the printer screen doesn’t show them?

For Windows: Open “Devices and Printers” > Right-click your Brother printer > Select “Printer Properties” > Go to the “Maintenance” tab > Click “View Ink Levels”. For Mac: Open “System Preferences” > “Printers & Scanners” > Select printer > “Options & Supplies” > “Utility.”

Will the "????" ink level indicator cause my printer to stop working?

No, your printer will keep printing until the ink runs out. The question marks are just the printer’s way of saying it can’t read the cartridge’s ink data, but functionality remains normal.

My computer says ink is "low," but the printer still prints. Should I replace it?

You can keep printing until quality drops (e.g., faint text or streaks). The “low” alert is an estimate—you’ll often get 50–100 more pages after the warning.

Returns & Warranty

What is your return policy

We offer a free 30-day return policy. You have 30 days after delivery to request a return.

What is your 1-year guarantee

We offer a 1-year guarantee from the purchase date. If you report a product issue within one year, we may provide a replacement or refund depending on the situation. Issues reported after one year may be handled case-by-case.

What items are eligible for return

To be eligible for a return, items must be in the same condition as received: unused, in original packaging, with any included tags/labels. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.

Are returns free

We offer free returns within the contiguous United States for orders shipped with Standard Mail (typically 2–10 business days) when the return is requested within 30 days of delivery, based on the carrier’s tracking.

How do I start a return

Contact us at support@starinkshop.com. If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label and instructions. Items sent back without first requesting a return may not be accepted.

What if my item arrives damaged defective or I received the wrong item

Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged, or incorrect. We’ll evaluate the issue and make it right.

When will I receive my refund

Once we’ve received and inspected your return, we’ll notify you if the refund is approved. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded to your original payment method. Please allow 2–5 business days from receipt of the package for processing, plus additional time for your bank or card provider to post the refund.

Shipping & Damage

If I order multiple sets, will they have the same shelf life?

Yes, all cartridges have a 2-year shelf life from the production date (printed on the box). Stored as recommended, even extra sets will remain in top condition until you’re ready to use them.

What if the cartridges arrive damaged or leaking?

We package cartridges in shockproof, sealed bags to prevent damage. If you arrive leaking or damaged, send us a photo within 48 hours of delivery, and we’ll ship a replacement immediately—no need to return the faulty ones.

What if a bottle arrives damaged or leaking?

Contact our support right away with photos of the damaged bottle and packaging. We’ll send a replacement at no cost—no need to return the faulty one. We prioritize quick fixes to keep you printing smoothly.

My cartridge is leaking ink—what should I do?

Please contact our customer support immediately with photos of the leaking cartridge and packaging. We’ll send a replacement set free of charge and can provide tips to clean any spilled ink safely.

How soon will I receive a replacement for a leaking cartridge?

We usually ship replacements within 24 hours after getting your request and photos. You’ll get a tracking number to monitor the delivery, so you won’t have to wait long.

How long does it take to receive a replacement for a leaking cartridge?

We process leak replacement requests within 24 hours. Once approved, your new cartridges will ship the same day, and you’ll get a tracking number to monitor delivery.

What if a cartridge arrives damaged or empty?

Contact our support immediately with photos of the damaged or empty cartridge. We’ll send a replacement at no cost—no need to return the faulty one. We stand behind our products and want to make it right quickly.

Does the ink expire? How should I store unopened bottles?

Unopened bottles have a 2-year shelf life. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and contamination.

Troubleshooting

What if my printer stops printing even though the ink isn’t empty?

This is rare, but try removing and reinserting the cartridges to reset the connection. If that doesn’t work, check for clogs using your printer’s “Clean Print Heads” function (in the maintenance menu). If issues persist, contact us for a replacement.

Print Quality & ColorC

How does the ink quality compare to Canon’s original cartridges?

Our ink delivers sharp text and vibrant colors that match OEM quality. It’s fade-resistant and smudge-proof, making it great for both everyday documents and photo printing. Many users can’t tell the difference.

How does the photo print quality hold up over time? Will colors fade?

Our ink is formulated with UV-resistant pigments, so photos printed with these cartridges resist fading for up to 20 years when stored properly (away from direct sunlight). They’ll stay bright and true.

How does the color accuracy compare to OEM cartridges for printing graphics?

Our color ink is calibrated to match Canon’s color profiles, so graphics and charts print with accurate hues. Whether it’s a pie chart or a company logo, the colors will be true to the original.

My prints have ink smudges—could this be from a leaking cartridge?

It’s possible! Smudging can be a sign of a partial leak or a loose seal. Send us photos of the smudged prints and the cartridge, and we’ll check if a replacement is needed—we’ll cover it if it’s a defect.

Do these cartridges affect photo print quality?

They produce vibrant, true-to-life photos with good color accuracy. While professional-grade prints might benefit from OEM ink, these work great for family photos or casual use.

My prints have streaks—could this be a cartridge issue?

It might be! Try running your printer’s “Clean Print Heads” function (in the maintenance menu) first. If streaks persist, contact our support with photos of the prints—we’ll send a replacement set if the issue is the cartridge.

My prints have a green tint—could this be the ink’s fault?

It’s unlikely, but try cleaning the print heads via your printer’s maintenance menu first. If the issue persists, contact our support with photos—we’ll send a replacement bottle if the ink is defective.

How well does this ink perform for photo printing?

Our ink is formulated to deliver vibrant colors and sharp details. For best photo results, use high-quality photo paper and set your printer to the correct paper type. Many customers report excellent photo quality comparable to OEM ink.

My prints have a pinkish hue—could this be due to the ink?

A pinkish tint can happen if one color is not printing properly. Try running a nozzle check and print head cleaning. If the tint remains, contact support—we can help troubleshoot or replace the ink if it’s defective.

Installation videos

Looking for setup instructions? We’ve prepared step-by-step installation videos for each cartridge model.

How to videos

Select your cartridge model to watch the installation video

How to install Epson 232
How to install Canon 280/281XXL 5P
How to install Canon 280/281XXL 6PK
How to install Epson 502
How to install Epson 522
How to install HP 902XL
How to install HP 910XL
How to install HP 923
How to install HP 952XL
How to install HP 962XL 4P
How to install Brother LC3033XL
How to install Brother LC3037XXL
How to install Epson GI20
How to install Brother LC401XL
How to install Brother LC404
How to install Brother LC406

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