Print Quality

[foxtail1]

This is the second time I have had this problem with HP ink cartridges. Ink levels are okay, but print quality is poor: missing lines and slices of print missing...characteristic of needing head cleaning. I have done that several times including super head cleaning. No improvement. The last time this happened, I ended up buying new ink cartidges (all HP) and all was good. But it irks me to buy ink I don't need to solve a technical problem. I am throwing $ away on ink I don't need because the cartridge has apparently failed in some way

[Meghana_10]

Hello @foxtail1, Welcome to the HP Support Commuity.

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

We understand your concern. If the ink levels are reporting correctly, but you're seeing missing lines, gaps in text, or sections of print disappearing, and multiple Printhead Cleaning and Deep Cleaning cycles have not improved the output, it's understandable to question whether the issue is with the cartridge rather than the printer itself.

Step 1: Perform a Printhead Cleaning

Since you've already performed a basic cleaning through the printer screen, try a more thorough cleaning using your printer software:

1. Open HP Printer Assistant:
   • On your computer, search for "HP Printer Assistant" in the Start menu and open it.
2. Printhead Cleaning:
   • In HP Printer Assistant, go to the Utilities or Tools section.
   • Look for an option like Clean Printhead or Deep Cleaning and run it.

Step 2: Align the Printhead

1. Access Printer Software:
   • Again, through the HP Printer Assistant, find the alignment tool.
2. Align Printhead:
   • Follow the prompts to align the printhead, which can help resolve issues with print quality and missing lines.

Step 3: Check for Firmware Updates 

HP ENVY 5070 All-in-One Printer undefined
Update the firmware on an HP printer | HP® Support

Ensure your printer firmware is up to date, as updates can fix bugs and improve performance.

1. Check for Updates:
   • In HP Printer Assistant, look for an option to check for firmware updates.
   • If an update is available, follow the instructions to update the firmware.

Step 4: Perform a Hard Reset

Sometimes, resetting the printer can resolve various issues:

1. Turn Off Printer:
   • Turn off your printer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Wait and Restart:
   • Wait for about 60 seconds.
   • Plug the printer back in and turn it on.

Step 5: Replace the Cartridges

Even if the ink levels are showing as half full, there could be an issue with the cartridges themselves:

1. Replace Cartridges:
   • Replace the current cartridges with new ones to see if the problem persists.

Refer to this document: HP ENVY 5000 All-in-One series User manual

To help us narrow this down further, please provide:

• Whether the issue affects black, color, or both.
• A photo of the Print Quality Diagnostic Page.
• The cartridge numbers currently installed.
• Whether you're using standard or XL cartridges.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.