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×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Color Ink Usage

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08-16-2021 09:44 AM
How is it that my color ink cartridges are being used and almost empty when I print in black ink only? I purchased all the colors less than 6 months ago and it is showing that all my color ink cartridges are low. I only print in black. Occasionally I will use color. What is going on? Thanks.
08-16-2021 10:01 AM
Depending on how you have your drivers set it is possible that when you think you are printing black it is actually using composite mode where it mixes all the color to give shades of grey. One sure way to lock the printer in monochrome only mode is to modify your printer driver so that it believes the printer is a monochrome printer. On your PC go to control panel>devices and printers and then right click on the icon for your printer and select "printer properties" from the dropdown menu. The click the device settings tab and scroll through the options until you see printer type. Change it from Auto to monochrome.
When you need to print color you can change it back or install the printer a second time and use the color driver for your color jobs.
I am a volunteer, offering my knowledge to support fellow users, I do not work for HP nor speak for HP.