Ok to remove toner cartridge pull tab to test and then store?

[jtvang125]

I ordered 4 new toner cartridges from ebay and when they arrived one was leaking. They all came with the pull tab intact but I want to test them before the refund period runs out (7 days) just in case those are defective as well. The question is can I remove the pull tabs, test them and then put them in storage without ruining their shelf life? We only have one printer and the usage is quiet low so they'll be stored until needed.

 

[C1]

I went thru this issue recently. (Had an unopened toner cartridge that was shelved for over six years.) As long as the cartridge is contained in the unopened silverized bag that it comes in, it's shelf life can be over ten years. Once these bags are opened exposing the contents to air/moisture, then the life shortens substantially & the cartridge should be used within a year. (The open exposure changes the electrical properties of the toner slowly over time.)

 

[corkyg]

Penny wise and pound foolish. Like C1 says - once you expose the cartridge to air and humidity, the long term storage life ceases. Trust the OEM warranty and ignore the EBay refund nonsense. Better yet - buy them locally at Staples or Office Depot as needed. Why invest in inventory?