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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- When to change imaging drum

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10-01-2024 02:36 AM
How do you know when you need to change the imaging drum? Is there a place where you can see how many pages it has printed? (something similar to checking the level of ink in the toners) My printed pages are smudged when I print in black and white but less so in colour.
10-01-2024 01:24 PM
Hi @Jen1009,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
Knowing when to change the imaging drum in your HP printer is crucial for maintaining print quality. Here are some key indicators and steps to check the drum's status.
Indicators for Changing the Imaging Drum:
- Print Quality Issues: If you notice smudging, streaks, or fading on printed pages, especially in black and white, it may indicate that the imaging drum is worn out.
- Drum Replacement Message: Your printer may display a warning message on its screen or in the print settings when the drum is nearing the end of its life.
- Page Count: Most imaging drums have a recommended page yield. If you know how many pages you've printed, you can estimate when to replace the drum based on its expected lifespan.
Checking Page Count:
- Printer Control Panel: Some HP printers allow you to check the total page count directly from the control panel. Look for a menu option related to maintenance or information.
- HP Printer Software: If you have the HP Smart app or the HP Printer Assistant installed on your computer:
- Open the app/software.
- Go to the “Printer Status” or “Maintenance” section.
- Look for information regarding the imaging drum or page count.
- Web Interface: If your printer is connected to a network, you can access its web interface:
- Open a web browser and enter the printer's IP address.
- Navigate to the maintenance or status section to check the drum count.
Recommended Action:
- If your prints are smudged and the imaging drum is nearing the end of its lifespan, consider replacing it to improve print quality.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
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Alden4
HP Support
HP Support Community Moderator
10-31-2024 12:11 PM
I began hearing some clicking coming from my HP Laser Jet Pro M118 dw today, had recently changed the Printer Cartridge, but the clicking was coming from more of the top of the printer . . . I began getting a large black smear on the left hand side of my pages and a bunch of shredded "ribbon-like" material came out . . . Is this an Imaging Drum issue, and that's what needs replacing??