HP OfficeJet 5220 won’t print black ink

[Planeswalker200]

I have an HP OfficeJet 5220 All-in-one printer.

It is impossible to print in black ink.

I already tried:

• changing the cartridge
• the cleaning procedure (both first and second level)

From the printing quality diagnosis page I checked that the color cartridge is correctly working, but the black won't come out. Not even the smallest trace.

Does anyone experienced this issue? how can I solve it?

[Rachel571 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Planeswalker200 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If your HP OfficeJet 5220 isn't printing black ink despite changing the cartridge and performing the cleaning procedures, it can be frustrating. There are several potential causes for this issue, ranging from clogged printheads to cartridge recognition problems. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help resolve the issue.

1. Check the Black Ink Cartridge Installation

Even if the cartridge is new, sometimes it might not be installed properly or there could be an issue with the cartridge itself.

• Turn off the printer and open the ink cartridge door.
• Remove the black ink cartridge and inspect it for any protective tape or plastic that might still be on the nozzles.
• Reinstall the cartridge properly (you should hear a click) and make sure it’s seated securely.

2. Perform a Printer Reset

Sometimes resetting the printer can clear any software glitches and allow it to recognize the cartridge correctly.

Steps to Reset the Printer:

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Wait for 30 seconds and plug it back in.
3. Power the printer on and try printing again.

3. Run a Printhead Cleaning or Deep Cleaning

If the printhead is clogged, this can cause the black ink to not come out. Since you've already tried basic cleaning, we can attempt a more thorough cleaning.

How to Perform a Deep Cleaning:

• Open HP Smart (or use the printer control panel if you don’t have the app).
• Go to Printer Settings or Tools.
• Select Clean Printhead or Deep Cleaning.
• Follow the prompts, and allow the printer to complete the cleaning process.
• After the cleaning is done, print a test page to see if the black ink is now printing.

4. Check the Ink Levels

Even if the cartridge is new, it might not be recognized properly by the printer. Ensure the black ink level shows as full in HP Smart or on the printer display.

• Open the HP Smart app or use the printer's control panel to check ink levels.
• If the ink level is low or empty, replace the cartridge, even if it’s new, to rule out a faulty cartridge.

5. Check for Printer Software and Driver Updates

An outdated driver or software issue might also prevent the black ink from printing. Ensure your printer’s software is up-to-date.

Steps to Update Drivers:

1. Visit the HP Support website.
2. Enter your printer model and download the latest drivers and software for your operating system.
3. Install the drivers and restart the printer.

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