If your laser printer has been producing less-than-perfect prints lately, you might be wondering if the toner cartridge is running low. Knowing when your toner is nearly used up helps you prepare a replacement in advance, avoiding last-minute print disruptions. Here are the most common signs to look for.
Faded or Light Prints
One of the first signs of a low toner cartridge is faded text or lighter-than-usual print. If your once-crisp black prints now appear gray or uneven, your toner could be nearing the end of its life.
Streaks or Patchy Areas
When toner levels drop, you might notice horizontal or vertical streaks across the page. Some areas may even appear blank, especially in large blocks of text or images.
Low Toner Warning Messages
Most modern laser printers have built-in alerts. You might see a “Low Toner” message on the printer display panel or a notification on your computer. While you can usually keep printing for a short time after this warning, it’s a good indicator that you should have a spare cartridge ready.
The Shake Test
If you suspect your toner is low, remove the cartridge and gently rock it from side to side. This can redistribute any remaining toner powder inside, allowing you to print a few more pages. If this improves print quality temporarily, it’s a sign the cartridge is almost empty.
Completely Blank Pages
If your printer starts producing blank sheets with no text or images, your toner might be completely depleted. However, blank pages can also be caused by other issues, such as a damaged cartridge or printer hardware problem.
Pro Tip: Check Your Toner Levels
Most printers have a way to check toner status via their control panel, computer software, or mobile app. Doing this regularly will help you plan ahead and avoid downtime.
Final Thoughts
Running out of toner at the wrong time can be frustrating, especially if you rely on your printer for work. By watching for these warning signs and keeping a spare cartridge on hand, you can ensure smooth, uninterrupted printing.
At Laserfast, we don’t just repair printers — we also supply a wide range of high-quality toner cartridges for leading printer brands. Whether you need a replacement urgently or want to stock up in advance, we deliver fast across Australia to keep your printing hassle-free.