How to Change a Drum Unit in Your Printer

laurajmidgley
Sep 9
2 min read

If your prints are coming out with streaks, faded areas, or repeating marks, it might be time to replace your printer’s drum unit. The drum plays a vital role in transferring toner onto the paper, and over time it wears out. Don’t worry — changing a drum unit is simpler than it sounds, and with a few easy steps, you’ll have your printer working like new again.

When Should You Replace a Drum Unit?

Most printers will notify you with a message like “Replace Drum” or “Drum Near End.” Other common signs include:

Repeated marks appearing at the same place on every page
Poor print quality despite replacing the toner cartridge
A clicking or grinding sound from the printer

What You’ll Need

A replacement drum unit (compatible with your printer model)
A clean, well-lit workspace
A soft cloth or tissue (optional, for handling toner)

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing a Drum Unit

1. Turn Off and Unplug the Printer

Safety first. Power down your printer and unplug it to avoid static or electrical issues.

2. Open the Printer Cover

Locate the printer’s front or top cover (depending on your model) and open it. You’ll see the toner cartridge and drum unit assembly.

3. Remove the Toner & Drum Assembly

Carefully pull out the toner and drum unit together. Most printers keep these two parts connected until you separate them.

4. Separate the Toner Cartridge from the Drum Unit

Look for a small lever or clip that allows you to release the toner cartridge from the drum. Gently remove the toner and set it aside — you’ll need it again.

5. Unpack the New Drum Unit

Take your new drum unit out of its packaging. Be careful not to touch the green (or shiny) roller surface, as fingerprints and scratches can affect print quality.

6. Attach the Toner Cartridge to the New Drum

Slide the toner cartridge into the new drum unit until it clicks into place.

7. Install the New Drum & Toner Assembly

Insert the new drum and toner back into the printer. Make sure it’s seated correctly.

8. Reset the Drum Counter

Most printers require you to reset the drum counter so it knows a new unit has been installed. Instructions vary, but usually involve holding down a button on the control panel for a few seconds. (Check your printer’s manual for exact steps.)

9. Test Print

Close the cover, plug in your printer, and run a test print. You should see clean, clear results.

Pro Tips for Longer Drum Life

Don’t expose the drum to direct sunlight for long periods.
Always use the correct toner cartridges for your printer.
Handle the drum carefully to avoid scratches.

By following these steps, you’ll keep your printer running smoothly and avoid unnecessary downtime.

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