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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Smears down hp 150nw color laser printer

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10-29-2024 09:59 AM
Hi @clairef1986,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
Smearing issues after a paper jam can often be related to several factors. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the smearing problem with your HP 150nw color laser printer.
Check for Residual Toner:
- After a paper jam, there may be residual toner inside the printer. Open the printer and gently clean the interior, especially around the toner cartridges and the paper path. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a toner vacuum if available.
Inspect the Drum Unit:
- If your printer has a drum unit separate from the toner cartridges, check it for any damage or toner buildup. Clean the drum surface gently with a soft cloth, avoiding any harsh materials that could scratch it.
Check the Fuser:
- The fuser unit is responsible for bonding the toner to the paper. If it has become damaged or is not functioning properly, it can cause smears. Look for any signs of damage or buildup. If you see any black streaks or marks, the fuser may need to be replaced.
Test Different Paper:
- Ensure you’re using the correct type of paper for your printer. Low-quality or incompatible paper can lead to smearing. Try using a different brand or type of paper to see if the issue persists.
Run Cleaning Cycle:
- Most HP printers have a built-in cleaning cycle. You can find this option in the printer settings menu. Running this cleaning cycle can help remove any toner residue from the printer components.
Check Printer Settings:
- Ensure your print settings (such as print quality and paper type) are configured correctly in the printer driver. Sometimes incorrect settings can lead to print quality issues.
Perform a Test Print:
- After cleaning and checking the components, print a test page to see if the smearing continues. If it does, it may indicate a deeper issue with the printer.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
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Alden4
HP Support
HP Support Community Moderator