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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Black ink not flowing from the tank to the printer head on H...

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04-15-2025 12:03 PM
I have performed the Clean Printhead several times to try and get the ink to flow without success. I tried to see if I could "milk" the tubing but it doesn't do anything.
04-16-2025 10:37 AM
Hi @jam967
Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.
It sounds like you've been thorough in your attempts to resolve the issue with your HP Smart Tank 6001. Here are some additional steps you can try to get the black ink flowing:
1. Check Ink Levels and Ventilation
- Ensure the black ink tank is adequately filled and that the ink is flowing freely into the tubing.
- Inspect the ink tank's vent for any blockages. A clogged vent can prevent ink from flowing properly.
2. Perform a Manual Printhead Cleaning
- Remove the printhead carefully and clean the nozzles with a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water.
- Reinstall the printhead and run another cleaning cycle through the printer's menu.
3. Prime the Ink System
- Some Smart Tank printers have an option to prime the ink system. Check your printer's settings or user manual for instructions on how to perform this process.
4. Update the firmware on an HP printer
- HP regularly releases new firmware versions for printer enhancements, app updates, or issue fixes. Update the firmware regularly to get the most out of your printer.
- Click on the link below for instructions on how to update the firmware of your printer.
https://support.hp.com/in-en/document/ish_1776648-1643972-16
5. Test with a Print Quality Diagnostic Page
- Print a diagnostic page to check if the black ink is being detected and used by the printer. This can help identify if the issue is with the printhead or another component.
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Regards,
Hawks_Eye
If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks!