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- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Cartridge Problem-Clams it is not installed properly.

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11-10-2025 03:03 PM - edited 11-10-2025 03:04 PM
Hi,
I have a HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 that will not accept my new yellow cartridge. I've replaced it with several different new cartridges and continue to get the same message. I've removed all the cartridges and cleaned everything, turned off the unit and restarted but it still will not accept the new yellow cartridge. Any suggestions?
11-13-2025 10:04 AM
@K9Lady,Welcome to HP Support Community,
Thank you for posting your query; I’m here to help by guiding you through steps to resolve this issue
It sounds frustrating when the printer refuses to accept a new cartridge, especially when you've tried multiple replacements. Here are some steps that you can try to fix the issue with your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720:
Check the Cartridge Contacts
Sometimes the contacts on the ink cartridge or the printer itself can get dirty or obstructed, preventing the cartridge from being recognized.
Turn off the printer and unplug it for safety.
Remove the yellow cartridge again.
Inspect the cartridge contacts (the metal electrical contacts) and gently clean them with a lint-free cloth or cotton swab slightly moistened with water or isopropyl alcohol.
Check the printhead contacts in the printer as well. Clean those carefully in the same manner.
Tip: Make sure the cartridge is free of any protective tape or packaging material (like the plastic pull tab).
Reset the Printer
Sometimes a printer reset can help resolve issues with cartridge recognition:
Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power outlet.
Wait about 30 seconds to 1 minute, then plug it back in and power it on again.
This can sometimes reset internal settings and help clear any glitches.
Reinstall the Cartridges
Turn off the printer.
Remove all the ink cartridges, and ensure that none of them are damaged or defective.
Reinstall the yellow cartridge last, making sure it clicks firmly into place.
Run Printer Diagnostics
HP printers often have a built-in diagnostic tool that can help identify and resolve cartridge issues.
On the printer screen (if it has a touchscreen), navigate to Settings > Printer Maintenance or Tools > Clean Cartridges.
You can also try the Printer Diagnostic Utility on your computer to check for hardware or ink cartridge problems.
Perform a Printer Reset
If all else fails, you can try a hard reset of the printer:
Turn off the printer and unplug it.
Press and hold the power button for 30 seconds (to release any residual charge).
Plug the printer back in and power it on.
This can help with certain error messages or stuck settings.
I hope this helps.
Please feel free to reply here if you have any questions or if you need further clarification on any of the steps.
Take care and have a good day.
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Regards,
Garp_Senchau
I am an HP Employee
11-16-2025 12:22 PM
Thank you for the information regarding my HP 8720. I did follow the suggested steps but was unable to get the printer to accept the yellow cartridge. I was able to do a factory reset so I can give it away to someone that might be able to fix it or the option to recycle it. Everything in the article was very helpful and easy to understand. Thanks again and have a great day.