Smart Tank 555 Print Quality Issue

[Wldy]

I've had the HP Smart Tank 555 for 2 1/2 years.  The ink that came with the printer is barely used.  The print quality is now terrible.  I've tried all the maintenance routines multiple times to try and improve the quality, but nothing has had any effect.  It looks like the only option is to buy new print heads.  Can they really need changing already, when I have only used about 30% of the original black ink and 10% of the colour?

[Jerry_57 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Wldy,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand you are experiencing print quality issues with your HP Smart Tank 555 despite having only used a small portion of the ink. There are several factors that might contribute to the degradation in print quality, even if the ink consumption is low. Here are some possibilities and solutions:
 

Printhead Condition:
 

• Over time, printheads can become clogged or otherwise compromised even if they haven’t been used extensively. Environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, as well as infrequent use, can cause drying or clogging of ink in the printhead nozzles.

Maintenance Routines:
 

• Although you've tried maintenance routines, sometimes repeated intensive cleaning cycles or a manual printhead cleaning, if available, can be more effective.
   

Storage Conditions:
 

• Ensure the printer and ink have been stored in an environment within the recommended temperature and humidity range to minimize the risk of ink drying out.

Firmware Updates:
 

• Verify if there are any firmware updates https://support.hp.com/us-en available for your printer that might help optimize its performance.
  
  
  I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Jerry_57

HP Support

[Wldy]

I have already used a load of paper and ink with the maintenance routines and it is already on the latest firmware.

[Jerry_57]

Hi @Wldy,

Thank you for your response.

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Jerry_57

HP Support