will not print black

[PJR51]

suddenly stopped  printing black even thou black ink cartridge was fairly new I replaced black ink with another new one still would not print black, ran the clean at least 4 times. still would not print black!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @PJR51,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

We understand how frustrating it is when your HP ENVY 5052 All-in-One Printer suddenly stops printing in black, especially after replacing the cartridge and running multiple cleaning cycles.
 

Let’s help you resolve this.
 

1. Check Cartridge Venting

Sometimes new cartridges have clogged vents:

• Remove the black cartridge.
• Look for the vent hole on top (small slit or hole).
• If it’s blocked (e.g., by adhesive or dried ink), gently clean it with a straight pin or lint-free cloth.

2. Try the “Glossy Paper” Trick

Some users found that setting the paper type to “Photo Paper” or “Glossy” forces the printer to use color ink to simulate black:

• Go to Print Settings > Paper Type.
• Select HP Photo Paper or Glossy.
• Try printing again.

This is a workaround, but it can confirm if the black ink system is the issue.

3. Perform a Power Reset

• Turn the printer on.
• While it’s on, unplug the power cord from the back.
• Wait 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in and turn it on.

4. Run a Second-Level Printhead Cleaning

• On the printer’s control panel or via the HP Smart app, run:
  • Basic cleaning
  • Then try Second-level cleaning (if available)

After each cleaning, print a Print Quality Diagnostic Page.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, as it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

VikramTheGreat

HP Support