Printer prints blank when printer in black ink.

[JoyAnneO]

My printer is no longer printing in black.  I tried removing ink and doing hard reset, then reinstalling ink.  This did not work.

Any ideas will be helpful.

[VikramTheGreat · Accepted solution]

Hi @JoyAnneO,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

Thanks for reaching out. If your HP printer is not printing in black, even after reinstalling the ink and doing a hard reset, here are the steps to troubleshoot this issue:

1. Check Ink Levels

• On the printer’s control panel or HP Smart app, check if the black ink cartridge shows as low or empty.
• If it’s low, replace it; even if it’s new, it could be defective.

2. Clean the Printhead

• Go to your printer’s Settings > Maintenance > Clean Printhead.
• Run the cleaning cycle 2–3 times if needed.
• You can also do this via the HP Smart app under Tools > Print Quality Tools.

3. Print a Diagnostic Page

• Print a Print Quality Diagnostic Report from the printer menu.
• Check if black is missing or faded. This confirms a printhead issue.

4. Check for Clogged Nozzles

• If black is missing on the diagnostic page, the printhead may be clogged.
• Try deep cleaning from the printer settings or the HP Smart app.

5. Use Genuine HP Cartridges

• Non-HP or refilled cartridges can cause ink flow issues.
• Make sure your black cartridge is a genuine HP and compatible with your printer model.

6. Update Firmware

• Visit Official HP® Drivers and Software Download | HP® Support and enter your printer model.
• Download and install the latest firmware to fix known bugs.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat

[JoyAnneO]

Good afternoon, VikramThe Great,

I tried everything you suggested. I printed the Diagnostic Page and in fact the black is missing.  I don't know how to physically clean the print head.  I cleaned it twice again today.  I am guessing it is time to trash this printer and refrain from purchasing HP printers, computers, products in general.

I called support and was willing to pay for support since my warranty expired 45 days ago and was told that they cannot help because I live in the US Virgin Islands and they do not support the US Territories.  Funny enough, their products are being sold locally in the Office Depot.

I appreciate your reaching out with help suggestions.  Have a great weekend.

Regards,

JoyAnneO

[JoyAnneO]

Hi Vikram,

I went back and changed the black ink even though it was about 2/3 full and now it prints just fine.  Thanks again for your help.  I am still mad that HP won't offer Support to my area, yet I am glad that the Community is available to help.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @JoyAnneO,

We’re glad to hear that replacing the black ink cartridge resolved the printing issue. Even when ink levels appear sufficient, cartridges can sometimes become clogged or fail to dispense properly, and installing a new one is often the quickest solution.
 

We sincerely regret that official HP Support is not currently available in your region. Your feedback is important, and we will make sure it is noted. In the meantime, we are pleased that the HP Community was able to provide the assistance you needed.
 

Please don’t hesitate to continue using the Community forums or HP’s online resources for future questions. We’re here to help in every way we can.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat