Print Quality

[AllanM2112]

I bought the Smart Tank 7306 a couple of weeks ago, today is the first time using it to do any proper colour printing. I'm getting faint lines on any blocks of colour no matter which settings or paper I'm using. I've gone through the print head cleaning & alignment process, but nothing has changed. Can anyone help please?

[Raj_05]

Hi @AllanM2112,

Welcome to HP Support Community.  

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

Faint lines on printed blocks of color can be caused by a few different factors. Since you've already tried print head cleaning and alignment, let's go through some additional troubleshooting steps.

• Check Ink Levels: Make sure your ink cartridges are not running low on ink. Low ink levels can lead to uneven printing.
• Quality Settings: Check your print settings. If you're using a draft or lower-quality setting, it might cause faint lines or uneven colors. Try printing at a higher quality setting.
• Paper Quality: Ensure that you're using the appropriate type of paper for your printer. Using the wrong paper can lead to issues with ink absorption and color reproduction.
• Print Head Alignment: Even though you've already performed a print head alignment, it's worth double-checking this process. Sometimes it might take a few attempts to get it right.
• Software Settings: Check your printer software settings. Make sure there are no settings like "Economy Mode" or "Fast Printing" that could be affecting print quality.
• Clean Print Head Manually: If the print head cleaning process didn't resolve the issue, you could consider manually cleaning the print heads. This might involve removing the print heads and gently cleaning them with a soft, lint-free cloth or a special cleaning solution recommended by the printer manufacturer.
• Nozzle Check: Many printers have a nozzle check or test print function. This will help you identify if any specific color nozzles are clogged. If you notice any missing colors or irregular patterns, you may need to clean the print heads further.
• Update Drivers and Firmware: Ensure that you have the latest printer drivers and firmware installed. Sometimes, outdated software can lead to printing issues.
• Print Head Replacement: If the issue persists and your printer is under warranty, or if the printer is significantly older, you might consider replacing the print head. Over time, print heads can wear out or become damaged, leading to print quality problems.

I hope this helps. 
 

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4
HP Support