Can't Print Using Black Ink Only (but color and black cartridges are in)

[betteunger]

Hi,

All of a sudden, I can't print using black ink.

I uninstalled and reinstalled the printer using first Wi-Fi and then a USB. When I print in grayscale/black the page comes out blank. When I run a test page I get a light-colored color only page. No black ink. (see atts).

*the black ink is brand new genuine HP (as first one was getting low) and won't print. getting black pages
*did a factory reset
*restored network setup
*restored factory defaults
*cleaned cartridges twice
*installed newest drivers: firmware update, Easy Start Printer Setup Software, firmware, Print and Scan Driver and Accessories

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

HP Deskjet Envy 5055 Wireless All-in-one
WIN 11 Home

[A_Gayathri · Accepted solution]

Hi @betteunger,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are facing an issue with your HP ENVY 5055 All-in-One Printer not printing using black ink, despite all the steps you've already taken, the issue could be related to one of the following:

Potential Causes:

1. Blocked Printhead: Even with a new cartridge, the printhead could be clogged, preventing black ink from being dispensed.
2. Cartridge Recognition Issue: The printer may not be correctly recognizing the black cartridge, even if it's genuine.
3. Driver or Settings Issue: Incorrect driver settings or configurations could interfere with grayscale or black printing.
4. Hardware Issue: There may be a defect in the printhead or the black ink cartridge slot.

Suggested Troubleshooting Steps:

Ensure the Cartridge is Installed Properly:

• Remove the black cartridge.
• Inspect the cartridge for any protective tape that may still be covering the nozzle.
• Reinstall the cartridge, ensuring it snaps securely into place.

Run the Printhead Cleaning Tool:

• Open the HP Smart app or printer software.
• Locate the "Printer Maintenance" section.
• Perform a Printhead Cleaning (use the second or third level if the first attempt doesn't resolve the issue).
• Test by printing a test page.

Align the Printer:

• Align the printer using the HP Smart app or the printer control panel.
• Print an alignment page and check if black ink appears.

Verify Print Settings:

• Open the print dialog in the application you're using.
• Ensure that the Print in Grayscale or Black Ink Only option is selected if printing without color.
• Disable any "Draft Mode" setting that may reduce ink usage.

Test the Black Ink Cartridge:

• Try inserting another black ink cartridge (if available) to rule out the possibility of a defective cartridge.
• Check the warranty on the current black cartridge if you suspect it's faulty.

Perform a Printer Hard Reset:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Wait for 5 minutes.
• Plug it back in, turn it on, and retry printing.

Inspect for Printhead Blockages:

• If cleaning doesn't resolve the issue, manually inspect the printhead for blockages.
• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to gently clean the ink cartridge contacts and printhead area.

Update or Reinstall Drivers:

• Remove the printer from Devices and Printers in Windows.
• Download and install the latest drivers for the HP ENVY 5055 from the HP Support website.
• Reconnect and set up the printer.

If the Problem Persists:

• Run a Print Quality Report:
  • Use the printer's control panel or HP software to generate a print quality report. This will help diagnose whether the issue is with the black ink specifically.

Refer to this document: HP DeskJet, ENVY, OfficeJet 5000, 5200 printers - No black ink, wrong colors, other print quality is...

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @betteunger,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are facing an issue with your HP ENVY 5055 All-in-One Printer not printing using black ink, despite all the steps you've already taken, the issue could be related to one of the following:

Potential Causes:

1. Blocked Printhead: Even with a new cartridge, the printhead could be clogged, preventing black ink from being dispensed.
2. Cartridge Recognition Issue: The printer may not be correctly recognizing the black cartridge, even if it's genuine.
3. Driver or Settings Issue: Incorrect driver settings or configurations could interfere with grayscale or black printing.
4. Hardware Issue: There may be a defect in the printhead or the black ink cartridge slot.

Suggested Troubleshooting Steps:

Ensure the Cartridge is Installed Properly:

• Remove the black cartridge.
• Inspect the cartridge for any protective tape that may still be covering the nozzle.
• Reinstall the cartridge, ensuring it snaps securely into place.

Run the Printhead Cleaning Tool:

• Open the HP Smart app or printer software.
• Locate the "Printer Maintenance" section.
• Perform a Printhead Cleaning (use the second or third level if the first attempt doesn't resolve the issue).
• Test by printing a test page.

Align the Printer:

• Align the printer using the HP Smart app or the printer control panel.
• Print an alignment page and check if black ink appears.

Verify Print Settings:

• Open the print dialog in the application you're using.
• Ensure that the Print in Grayscale or Black Ink Only option is selected if printing without color.
• Disable any "Draft Mode" setting that may reduce ink usage.

Test the Black Ink Cartridge:

• Try inserting another black ink cartridge (if available) to rule out the possibility of a defective cartridge.
• Check the warranty on the current black cartridge if you suspect it's faulty.

Perform a Printer Hard Reset:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Wait for 5 minutes.
• Plug it back in, turn it on, and retry printing.

Inspect for Printhead Blockages:

• If cleaning doesn't resolve the issue, manually inspect the printhead for blockages.
• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to gently clean the ink cartridge contacts and printhead area.

Update or Reinstall Drivers:

• Remove the printer from Devices and Printers in Windows.
• Download and install the latest drivers for the HP ENVY 5055 from the HP Support website.
• Reconnect and set up the printer.

If the Problem Persists:

• Run a Print Quality Report:
  • Use the printer's control panel or HP software to generate a print quality report. This will help diagnose whether the issue is with the black ink specifically.

Refer to this document: HP DeskJet, ENVY, OfficeJet 5000, 5200 printers - No black ink, wrong colors, other print quality is...

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

[betteunger]

Thank you Gaya. I’m going to try your suggestions and order another cartridge in case that is the issue. 

I will report back once I get this done. 

[betteunger]

Seems to be working now. 

Thank you!

[A_Gayathri]

HI @betteunger,

That's great! I am happy to hear that the issue has been resolved. If you need further assistance feel free to reach out to us. 

If the information I've provided was helpful, give us some reinforcement by clicking the Accept as Solution on the public post, that'll help us and others see that we've got the answers!

Have a great day ahead! 

Gaya1239 

HP Support

[betteunger]

I clicked on accepted solution. Is that the same thing?

[betteunger]

I clicked on solved is that the same thing?