Why is my printer printing blank pages after all troubleshooting?

[Tracy4707]

Why is my printer printing blank pages after all troubleshooting?  Restarted printer, cleaned and replaced cartridges.  I've tried everything.   Have HP Deskjet 4100.  

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @Tracy4707,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are facing an issue with your HP DeskJet Plus 4100 All-in-One series printer. It is still printing blank pages after all the troubleshooting steps you've mentioned, here are some additional steps and potential causes to address the issue:

1. Confirm Cartridge Compatibility

Ensure the cartridges you are using are genuine HP cartridges and compatible with the HP DeskJet Plus 4100 series. Third-party or incompatible cartridges might not work properly.

2. Check Ink Levels

Even if you’ve replaced the cartridges, double-check the ink levels in the printer software:

• Open the HP Smart App or the Printer Software on your computer.
• Check the ink levels displayed for both black and color cartridges.

3. Run a Printhead Alignment

Sometimes, misalignment of the printhead can cause blank pages. Perform a printhead alignment:

• Load plain paper into the printer.
• Use the printer software or control panel to navigate to Tools or Printer Maintenance.
• Select Align the Printhead.

4. Perform a Deep Cleaning

Standard cleaning may not resolve certain clogs or dried ink issues. Perform a deep cleaning:

• In the printer software, go to Printer Maintenance.
• Select Clean the Printhead and then opt for a deeper cleaning process if available.

5. Inspect the Cartridge Vents

Cartridge vents can sometimes become blocked. To check:

• Turn off the printer and remove the cartridges.
• Inspect the small vents on top of the cartridges. If clogged, gently clean them with a lint-free cloth or pin.
• Reinstall the cartridges.

6. Update Printer Firmware Update the firmware on an HP printer

Outdated firmware may cause unexpected issues:

• Download and install the latest firmware for your printer from the HP Support website.
• Follow the update instructions carefully.

7. Perform a Hard Reset

To clear any residual errors:

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Wait for 2-3 minutes.
3. Plug the printer back in and turn it on.

8. Test a Standalone Print

Try a standalone print to determine if the issue is with the printer or the software:

• Use the Copy function on the printer control panel to copy a document or image directly.
• If the copy is blank, the issue is with the printer hardware.

9. Inspect for Hardware Issues

If all else fails, the problem may be related to the printhead or internal hardware:

• Check if the printhead is integrated into the cartridge. If not, the printhead itself might need cleaning or replacement.
• Look inside the printer for any visible obstructions or ink spills.

Refer to this document: HP printer prints blank pages

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!

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @Tracy4707,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are facing an issue with your HP DeskJet Plus 4100 All-in-One series printer. It is still printing blank pages after all the troubleshooting steps you've mentioned, here are some additional steps and potential causes to address the issue:

1. Confirm Cartridge Compatibility

Ensure the cartridges you are using are genuine HP cartridges and compatible with the HP DeskJet Plus 4100 series. Third-party or incompatible cartridges might not work properly.

2. Check Ink Levels

Even if you’ve replaced the cartridges, double-check the ink levels in the printer software:

• Open the HP Smart App or the Printer Software on your computer.
• Check the ink levels displayed for both black and color cartridges.

3. Run a Printhead Alignment

Sometimes, misalignment of the printhead can cause blank pages. Perform a printhead alignment:

• Load plain paper into the printer.
• Use the printer software or control panel to navigate to Tools or Printer Maintenance.
• Select Align the Printhead.

4. Perform a Deep Cleaning

Standard cleaning may not resolve certain clogs or dried ink issues. Perform a deep cleaning:

• In the printer software, go to Printer Maintenance.
• Select Clean the Printhead and then opt for a deeper cleaning process if available.

5. Inspect the Cartridge Vents

Cartridge vents can sometimes become blocked. To check:

• Turn off the printer and remove the cartridges.
• Inspect the small vents on top of the cartridges. If clogged, gently clean them with a lint-free cloth or pin.
• Reinstall the cartridges.

6. Update Printer Firmware Update the firmware on an HP printer

Outdated firmware may cause unexpected issues:

• Download and install the latest firmware for your printer from the HP Support website.
• Follow the update instructions carefully.

7. Perform a Hard Reset

To clear any residual errors:

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Wait for 2-3 minutes.
3. Plug the printer back in and turn it on.

8. Test a Standalone Print

Try a standalone print to determine if the issue is with the printer or the software:

• Use the Copy function on the printer control panel to copy a document or image directly.
• If the copy is blank, the issue is with the printer hardware.

9. Inspect for Hardware Issues

If all else fails, the problem may be related to the printhead or internal hardware:

• Check if the printhead is integrated into the cartridge. If not, the printhead itself might need cleaning or replacement.
• Look inside the printer for any visible obstructions or ink spills.

Refer to this document: HP printer prints blank pages

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!