Black ink not printing but printer says ink full

[TzIgor123]

Used to get ink jet sent regularly when it run out , but now it’s run out and doesn’t print anything black ( colour works fine ) but on the printer and on the hp app it says black ink is full? 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @TzIgor123,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If your HP Smart Tank 525 printer is indicating that the black ink tank is full but it’s not printing anything in black, there are several potential issues that could be causing this problem. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:

Step 1: Perform a Printhead Cleaning

1. Access Printer Maintenance Tools:
   • Open the HP Smart app or your printer software on your computer.
   • Navigate to the printer maintenance or toolbox section.
2. Run Printhead Cleaning:
   • Select the option to clean the printhead. This process can help clear any clogs in the printhead nozzles.
   • You may need to run this process several times to clear any blockages.

Step 2: Print a Diagnostic Page

1. Print a Test Page:
   • Print a diagnostic or test page from the printer's menu or the HP Smart app.
   • This will help determine if the issue is with the printhead or another component.
2. Inspect the Test Page:
   • Check if the black ink prints properly on the test page. If there are gaps or no black ink, it indicates a problem with the printhead or ink delivery system.

Step 3: Check Ink Levels and Cartridges

1. Visually Check the Ink Levels:
   • Open the ink tank compartment and visually inspect the black ink level to ensure it is actually full.
2. Check for Air Bubbles:
   • Make sure there are no air bubbles in the ink supply tube for the black ink. If there are, gently tap the tube to move the bubbles back into the tank.

Step 4: Align the Printhead

1. Access Printer Maintenance Tools:
   • Open the HP Smart app or your printer software on your computer.
   • Navigate to the printer maintenance or toolbox section.
2. Run Printhead Alignment:
   • Select the option to align the printhead. Proper alignment can sometimes resolve printing issues.

Step 5: Check for Firmware Updates

1. Update Firmware:
   • Visit the HP Support website to check if there are any firmware updates available for your printer.
   • Download and install any available updates.

Step 6: Reset the Printer

1. Power Reset:
   • Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
   • Wait for about 60 seconds.
   • Plug the printer back in and turn it on.

Step 7: Manually Clean the Printhead

1. Remove the Printhead:
   • Follow the instructions in your printer’s manual to safely remove the printhead.
2. Clean the Printhead:
   • Gently clean the printhead contacts with a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol.
   • Allow the printhead to dry completely before reinstalling it

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support