HP5530: ink empty message ???

[GwendoM]

My HP Envy 5530  indicates “empty ink”

What I have tried:

—replaced both black and color cartridges with fresh, authentic HP 61 products (not refurbished)

—checked alignment, and it prints

—turned off printer, unplugged; turned it on again

—turned off ALL related devices while printer was unplugged; turned them on again

 —checked online to see if this is a typical problem with a typical solution
Has this ever happened to anyone else? 

thanks!

GM

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @GwendoM 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

You’ve done a fantastic job covering the basics already—it’s incredibly frustrating when you’ve followed all the right steps and the printer still insists the ink is empty. 

Let’s try a few more actions that might help clear that stubborn message:

🧼 1. Clean the Cartridge Contacts

Even brand-new cartridges can have minor contact issues.

• Turn on the printer and open the cartridge access door.
• Wait until the carriage stops moving.
• Remove both cartridges.
• Gently clean the copper-colored contacts on the cartridges and the corresponding contacts inside the printer using a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.
• Let everything dry for 10 minutes, then reinstall the cartridges.

🔄 2. Reset the Printer

This can help clear any memory glitches.

• With the printer on, unplug the power cord from the back.
• Unplug from the wall outlet.
• Wait at least 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in directly to a wall outlet (not a surge protector) and power it on.

🖨 3. Check for Firmware Updates

Outdated firmware can sometimes misread cartridge status.

• Visit the HP Software & Driver Downloads page.
• Enter your model (HP Envy 5530) and download any available firmware updates.
• Install the update and restart the printer.

🧪 4. Try Single-Cartridge Mode

If one cartridge is faulty, the printer can still operate with just one.

• Remove either the black or color cartridge.
• Close the access door and see if the printer enters Single-Cartridge Mode.
• If it prints, the issue may be isolated to one of the cartridges.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, the cartridge itself—despite being new and genuine—might be defective.  Let me know how it goes—I’m here to help you get that printer back to full strength!

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye