Faded prints, streaks, low toner, or a cartridge that will not fit

Use this guide when: printed pages are faded or streaked, the printer reports low toner or a waste-toner/drum warning, or a replacement cartridge will not fit.

Check the message before replacing anything

1. Write down the exact warning from the printer screen. “Toner,” “Drum,” and “Waste toner” refer to different parts; they are not interchangeable.
2. Find the printer model on its label. If you have a replacement, compare its model/part information with the printer’s requirements or ask IT to confirm the correct item.
3. If a cartridge does not fit easily, stop. Do not force it or use a cartridge from a different model.
4. If pages are streaked even though toner is full, photograph a test page using non-confidential content. Do not keep replacing toner solely because the page looks faded.

What happens next

In previous People Incorporated tickets, IT ordered toner through the printer company. A separate streaking/fading issue with full toner led to an order for another printer component. IT needs the model and symptoms to request the correct item.

Follow the printer’s own instructions for any routine cartridge replacement you are authorized to perform. If the instructions, part, or warning do not match, ask IT before continuing.

Make the request useful

• Printer model, site, and room.
• Exact screen warning and affected color, if relevant.
• Whether the cartridge is empty, newly replaced, or apparently full.
• Photo of a non-confidential sample showing the streak or faded area.
• Part number on the replacement box if it will not fit.

Check after replacement

Print one non-confidential test page. Confirm the warning clears and the quality improves. If streaks remain, tell IT rather than ordering the same item again.

Still need help?

Submit an IT support ticket and include the model, warning, sample photo, and supply details above. If a previous ticket is resolved or closed, start a new ticket and mention its number.