printer don't print black!

[marko0311]

hello my printer  Hp Deskjet 4100 is not printing black! but ink is full! i didnt print for a year and now it dont work like befor not printing black on pictures and when i try to print letters! what to do!

[Sneha_01]

Hi @marko0311 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your HP Deskjet 4100 printer isn't printing black ink, even though the ink cartridge is full. This could be due to a few possible reasons, like clogged printhead nozzles, dried ink, or software issues. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue:

1. Check the Ink Cartridge

• Ensure the ink cartridge is properly installed: Sometimes the cartridge might not be seated correctly. Remove it, wait a few seconds, and reinstall it to make sure it is snugly in place.
• Check for protective tape: If the cartridge is new or hasn't been used in a while, make sure any protective tape over the ink nozzles is removed.

2. Clean the Printhead

The most likely cause of the black ink not printing is a clogged printhead, especially if the printer hasn’t been used in a long time.

• Use the printer’s built-in cleaning function:
  • On your computer, open the HP Smart app or the Printer Software.
  • Go to Printer Maintenance or Tools and select Clean Printhead.
  • Follow the prompts to perform the cleaning. This can take a few minutes.

If you're using a Windows PC, you can also clean the printhead through Control Panel: - Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers. - Right-click on your HP Deskjet 4100 printer and select Printer Properties. - Go to the Maintenance tab and click Clean Printheads.

This process will clear any ink clogs in the printhead nozzles.

3. Run the Printer's Diagnostic Test

• Many HP printers have a built-in diagnostic tool that can help identify issues.
  • On the printer’s control panel, go to Settings and look for a Printer Diagnostics option or go through the HP Smart app on your computer or phone to run the test.
  • The diagnostic test will provide a report and may guide you to specific issues with the ink cartridge or printhead.

4. Perform a Printer Reset

Sometimes resetting the printer can resolve minor software or connection issues that might be preventing the black ink from printing.

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source for at least 30 seconds.
• Plug it back in, turn it on, and try printing again.

5. Check for Ink Level in HP Smart App

Sometimes, even though the cartridge is full, the printer may not recognize the ink level correctly, especially if the cartridge is old or not properly connected.

• Open the HP Smart app or the HP Printer Assistant on your computer.
• Check the ink levels. If it shows that the ink is low, you may need to replace the cartridge, even if it visually looks full.

6. Check Print Settings

Make sure the print settings on your computer aren't set to print in “Grayscale” or “Black and White” only, which could cause it to not use the black ink.

• When printing a document or photo, go to the Print Dialog on your computer.
• In the Properties or Preferences section, ensure the print setting is set to Color and not just black or grayscale.

I hope this helps.

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