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

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
09-16-2024 12:39 PM
Hi @Arcineeee,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
Dealing with a print head problem on your HP printer can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you address print head problems:
1. Perform Basic Checks
Check for Error Messages:
- Look at the printer’s control panel or the HP Smart app for any specific error codes or messages. This can provide clues about the nature of the problem.
Ensure Cartridges Are Installed Correctly:
- Open the printer’s access door and make sure the ink cartridges are installed properly. They should click into place firmly.
Check for Obstructions:
- Look inside the printer for any paper jams or obstructions that might be blocking the print head.
2. Clean the Print Head
Use Printer’s Built-in Cleaning Function:
- Most HP printers have a built-in utility to clean the print head. Access this through the printer’s menu or the HP Smart app:
- On the printer’s control panel: Go to Setup or Tools, then select Clean Printhead or Printhead Cleaning.
- On the HP Smart app: Go to Printer Settings > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead.
Manual Cleaning:
- If the built-in cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, you might need to clean the print head manually:
- Turn Off and Unplug: Power off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
- Remove Cartridges: Take out the ink cartridges.
- Clean Print Head Contacts: Gently clean the print head contacts with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water. Be careful not to touch the nozzles directly.
- Reinstall Cartridges: After cleaning, reinstall the cartridges and plug the printer back in.
3. Check and Reset Printer
Power Cycle:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it. Wait for 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This can sometimes reset any temporary issues.
Check Firmware Updates:
- Ensure that your printer’s firmware is up to date. Check for updates through the HP Smart app or the HP Support website.
4. Align the Print Head
- Print Head Alignment:
- Misalignment can sometimes cause issues. Use the printer’s built-in alignment function:
- On the printer’s control panel: Go to Setup or Tools, then select Print Head Alignment.
- On the HP Smart app: Go to Printer Settings > Printer Maintenance > Align Printhead.
- Misalignment can sometimes cause issues. Use the printer’s built-in alignment function:
5. Replace Ink Cartridges
- Check Cartridges:
- Sometimes faulty or expired ink cartridges can cause print head problems. Try replacing the cartridges with new, genuine HP ones.
6. Perform a Hard Reset
- Reset Printer:
- Perform a hard reset to see if it resolves the issue:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it.
- Wait for 60 seconds.
- Plug it back in and turn it on.
- Perform a hard reset to see if it resolves the issue:
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
Sneha_01- HP support