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HP OfficeJet 5255 All-in-One Printer

My colored print cartridge is at about 1/3 and my black is full and yet when I print, the quality is poor...some parts are clear and others are blurry or missing...I don't want to waste print cartridges. Help!

1 ACCEPTED SOLUTION

Accepted Solutions
HP Recommended

Hi @Jocatcab,

 

Welcome to HP Support Community.  


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

 

If you're experiencing poor print quality, especially with missing or blurry parts, there are several potential causes and solutions you can try. Here are some steps you can follow.

 

Check Print Cartridges:

  • Make sure that both the color and black cartridges are properly installed.
  • Ensure that the cartridges are not expired or damaged. If a cartridge is damaged or expired, it may not perform optimally.

Print Head Alignment:

  • Many printers have a print head alignment feature. Check your printer's manual on how to align the print heads properly.

Clean the Print Heads:

  • Use the printer's software or control panel to initiate a print head cleaning process. This will help remove any dried ink or debris that may be affecting print quality.

Check Paper Quality:

  • Ensure that you are using the recommended type of paper for your printer. Using low-quality or incompatible paper can result in print issues.

Print Quality Settings:

  • Adjust the print quality settings in the printer properties. Sometimes, lowering the print quality can improve performance. However, keep in mind that this might affect the overall print clarity.

Update Printer Drivers:

  • Ensure that you have the latest printer drivers installed. Visit the HP website to download and install the latest drivers for your printer model.

Check for Software Updates:

  • Make sure that your printer's firmware is up to date. Sometimes, HP release firmware updates that can improve printer performance.

Inspect for Paper Jams:

  • Even if you're not experiencing paper jams, open the printer and inspect the paper path for any obstructions or debris.

Check for Ink Smudges:

  • Inspect the printed pages for any smudges. If there are smudges, it could be an issue with the ink delivery system.

Color Settings:

  • Check your printer settings to ensure that the color settings are configured correctly. Incorrect color settings can result in poor print quality.

Run Printer Diagnostic Tools:

  • Some printers come with diagnostic tools that can help identify and resolve print quality issues. Check your printer's manual or support resources for information on available diagnostic tools.

 

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 

Raj_05
HP Support Community Moderator

View solution in original post

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @Jocatcab,

 

Welcome to HP Support Community.  


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

 

If you're experiencing poor print quality, especially with missing or blurry parts, there are several potential causes and solutions you can try. Here are some steps you can follow.

 

Check Print Cartridges:

  • Make sure that both the color and black cartridges are properly installed.
  • Ensure that the cartridges are not expired or damaged. If a cartridge is damaged or expired, it may not perform optimally.

Print Head Alignment:

  • Many printers have a print head alignment feature. Check your printer's manual on how to align the print heads properly.

Clean the Print Heads:

  • Use the printer's software or control panel to initiate a print head cleaning process. This will help remove any dried ink or debris that may be affecting print quality.

Check Paper Quality:

  • Ensure that you are using the recommended type of paper for your printer. Using low-quality or incompatible paper can result in print issues.

Print Quality Settings:

  • Adjust the print quality settings in the printer properties. Sometimes, lowering the print quality can improve performance. However, keep in mind that this might affect the overall print clarity.

Update Printer Drivers:

  • Ensure that you have the latest printer drivers installed. Visit the HP website to download and install the latest drivers for your printer model.

Check for Software Updates:

  • Make sure that your printer's firmware is up to date. Sometimes, HP release firmware updates that can improve printer performance.

Inspect for Paper Jams:

  • Even if you're not experiencing paper jams, open the printer and inspect the paper path for any obstructions or debris.

Check for Ink Smudges:

  • Inspect the printed pages for any smudges. If there are smudges, it could be an issue with the ink delivery system.

Color Settings:

  • Check your printer settings to ensure that the color settings are configured correctly. Incorrect color settings can result in poor print quality.

Run Printer Diagnostic Tools:

  • Some printers come with diagnostic tools that can help identify and resolve print quality issues. Check your printer's manual or support resources for information on available diagnostic tools.

 

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 

Raj_05
HP Support Community Moderator
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