Low Ink Warning When Rarely Print And Tried Cleaning Contacts

[John1967275]

Ever since I've had this printer (Office Jet Pro 8610) it will show low ink level warning when I hardly ever print. Right now it's showing low ink levels on my color cartridges and I NEVER print in color. On the black, I got the XL and it's already showing low. I don't print much at all! Ive already cleaned the contacts as recommended. This did nothing. I am wasting so much money on these cartridges. I'm thinking about getting a new printer in another brand. This is ridiculous. Please help before I switch brands and never come back. I have a MacBook Air if that even matters. 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @John1967275,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

I understand your frustration with the low ink warnings on your HP OfficeJet Pro 8610, especially given that you don’t print in color and your usage is minimal. Here’s a comprehensive guide to address the issue and help you decide whether to stick with your current printer or consider switching brands:

**1. Understanding Ink Usage

Ink Usage Even When Not Printing:

• Even if you don’t print in color, the color cartridges are used for maintenance tasks, like cleaning the printheads. This can deplete the ink over time.

Ink Cartridge Technology:

• Ink cartridges, especially those with integrated printheads, can dry out or be used for maintenance even without regular printing.

**2. Check Ink Cartridge Settings

Printer Settings:

• On your MacBook Air, open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
• Select your HP OfficeJet Pro 8610 and click on Options & Supplies > Supply Levels to check if the software reports accurate ink levels.

HP Software:

• Use the HP Smart app or HP Printer Software to check ink levels and settings. Ensure that no color printing is selected as default in the software.

**3. Troubleshoot Low Ink Warnings

Reset Ink Cartridge Information:

• Sometimes, resetting the ink cartridge information can help. Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, wait for about 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on.

Reinstall Cartridges:

• Remove the ink cartridges, inspect them for any damage or residue, clean the contacts with a soft, lint-free cloth, and reinstall them carefully.

Check for Firmware Updates:

• Ensure your printer’s firmware is up to date. Visit the HP Support website for the latest firmware updates for your model.

**4. Address Ink Cartridge Issues

HP Genuine Cartridges:

• Ensure you are using genuine HP ink cartridges. Non-HP cartridges may cause issues or inaccuracies in reporting ink levels.

Check Expiration Dates:

• Ink cartridges have expiration dates. Ensure that your cartridges are not expired or close to their expiration date.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support