The cleaning process failed

[Jim_1001]

When trying to clean cartridges using the HP DeskJet Plus 4100 series Toolbox  I get the popup message "The cleaning process failed". That's it - no explanation of why it failed! The printer is not reporting to be low on any ink yet is not printing in black ink. Thanks for any help.

[Raj_05]

Hi @Jim_1001,

Welcome to HP Support Community.  
 

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

I'm sorry to hear that you're having trouble with the cleaning process on your HP DeskJet Plus 4100 series printer. Here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve the issue.

• Restart the printer: Turn off the printer, unplug the power cord from the power outlet, wait for about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. Turn on the printer and check if the cleaning process can be initiated again.
• Check ink levels: Make sure your printer has enough ink in the cartridges. Low ink levels can sometimes prevent the cleaning process from completing successfully. Replace any empty or low ink cartridges if necessary.
• Perform a manual cleaning: If the automatic cleaning process fails, you can try performing a manual cleaning. Remove the ink cartridges from the printer and gently wipe the print head with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water. Be careful not to touch the nozzles directly. After cleaning, reinsert the cartridges and try running the cleaning process again.
• Update printer firmware: Visit the official HP support website and check if there are any firmware updates available for your printer model. Updating the firmware can sometimes resolve issues with the cleaning process. Follow the instructions provided by HP to update the firmware if an update is available.

I hope this helps. 
 

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4
HP Support 

[Jim_1001]

Alden,

Thanks for your reply. My notifications were going to my Spam email folder so sorry for delay. The problem I have is that black ink is not printed even though the software says the cartridge is two thirds full. That's why I was trying to clean the heads.  I did manage, in the end, to get the automatic clean to work, however that didn't improve things. Then tried a second stage clean which also didn’t improve matters. I then cleaned the cartridge contacts with a microfibre cloth to no effect.  I haven’t cleaned contacts on print head as don’t want to damage them. Instead I’ve ordered a new black cartridge. If that doesn’t work I’ll try cleaning printhead contacts. 

Thanks again, 

Jim

[Raj_05]

Hi @Jim_1001,

Thank you for your response, 

Due to limited support, I would request you contact our HP Support and our Support Engineers should be able to sort this out. HP Support can be reached by clicking on the following link.

https://www.hp.com/contacthp/

Please feel free to contact us here anytime you need any further assistance.

Have a great day!

Alden4
HP Support