Black ink is streaky after multiple cleanings and a new ink cartridge

[ClaireBK93]

HP ENVY Photo 7855. I have run level 1 and 2 print head cleanings multiple times. Done an alignment, and done a streak cleaning. Black ink is still coming out streaky. Is there something that can be manually cleaned inside the printer that might have buildup on it?

 

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @ClaireBK93 ,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

I understand the black ink is still streaky after multiple cleanings, alignments, and a new ink cartridge, it's possible there might be buildup or dried ink on the printhead or other components. Here's what you can do to manually clean your HP ENVY Photo 7855:

Step-by-Step Manual Cleaning

1. Prepare the Printer

• Turn on the printer and open the ink cartridge access door.
• Wait for the carriage to move to the center and become idle.
• Unplug the printer while it’s still on to prevent it from moving unexpectedly during cleaning.

2. Remove the Ink Cartridges

• Take out the ink cartridges carefully and set them aside on a clean, lint-free cloth with the nozzles facing up.

3. Clean the Printhead Contacts

• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled or filtered water.
• Gently wipe the electrical contacts on the printhead (the small gold or copper-colored rectangles).
• Avoid touching the nozzles themselves.

4. Clean the Ink Cartridge Contacts

• Use the same damp cloth to clean the contacts on the ink cartridges.
• Dry both the printhead and ink cartridge contacts with a dry, lint-free cloth.

5. Inspect the Printhead Nozzles

• If you notice dried ink or buildup on the nozzles, soak a lint-free cloth or cotton swab in distilled water.
• Dab gently to remove the buildup. Do not rub forcefully, as this can damage the nozzles.

6. Check for Paper Dust or Residue

• Inspect the paper feed area for paper dust or residue that could be contaminating the printhead.
• Use a slightly damp cloth to clean the rollers and surrounding areas.

7. Reinstall the Ink Cartridges

• Place the ink cartridges back into the printer and close the ink cartridge access door.
• Plug in the printer and turn it on.

8. Run a Test Print

• After completing the cleaning, run a print quality diagnostic report or print a test page to check for improvement.

Refer to this document: Color or black ink not printing, other print quality issues

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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