Black ink won’t print

[Kimenjoynlife]

Originally received printhead problem message and only blank pages. Replaced all cartridges and now the black ink won’t print.  Clean printhead page prints in blue as does the Align printhead page. Help ! Thank you !!

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Kimenjoynlife,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If your HP printer is printing blank pages despite replacing the cartridges and cleaning the printhead, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to address the issue with black ink. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help resolve the problem:

**1. Verify Cartridge Installation

Check Cartridge Placement:

• Ensure the black ink cartridge is correctly installed in its designated slot. Remove and reinsert it to confirm it’s seated properly.

Inspect Cartridge Contacts:

• Examine the copper-colored contacts on the cartridge and inside the printer for any obstructions or residue. Clean the contacts with a lint-free cloth if necessary.

**2. Clean the Printhead

Manual Cleaning:

• Open the printer’s access door and remove the printhead (if your model allows it).
• Gently clean the printhead nozzles with a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water or a printhead cleaning solution.

Automatic Cleaning:

• Use the printer’s built-in cleaning function. Go to the printer’s control panel, select Setup or Tools, and choose Clean Printhead or Clean Cartridges.

**3. Run Printhead Alignment

1. Align Printhead:
   • After cleaning the printhead, perform a printhead alignment to ensure proper alignment.
   • Go to Setup > Tools > Printhead Alignment on your printer’s control panel.

**4. Check Ink Levels

Verify Ink Levels:

• Make sure the black ink cartridge has sufficient ink. Sometimes, new cartridges can still be low or defective.

Replace Cartridge if Necessary:

• If you suspect the black ink cartridge is defective, replace it with a new one, even if it’s new.

**5. Print a Diagnostic Page

Print Diagnostic Page:

• Print a diagnostic or test page from your printer’s control panel to check if the black ink prints. This can help determine if the issue is with the printhead or ink delivery system.

Check Print Quality Report:

• The report will help identify any issues with ink flow or print quality.

**6. Check for Firmware Updates

1. Update Printer Firmware:
   • Visit the HP Support website and check for any available firmware updates for your printer model.
   • Follow the instructions to download and install the update.

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