Printing only in black does not print in color

[User01272025113]

Printing only in black does not print in color

[Sneha_01]

Hi @TH43MFP27P 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your printer is only printing in black, and not in color, which can be caused by a variety of issues. Let’s troubleshoot step-by-step to figure out what’s going on.

1. Check Ink Cartridges and Ink Levels

First, ensure that the color cartridges aren't empty or defective:

• Check the ink levels for each cartridge (especially the color cartridges) through the printer’s display screen or using the HP Smart app or printer software on your computer.
• If any of the color cartridges are empty, replace them. Even if your printer says it's fine to print with just black ink, sometimes the printer still needs the color cartridges installed properly.

2. Check for a "Black Only" Setting

Sometimes printers have a setting that forces printing in black and white, even if there are color inks available.

• On your computer or printer settings, look for an option called “Print in Grayscale” or “Black & White Only” and make sure it is disabled.
• In Windows:
  • Open the Print Dialog (click File > Print).
  • Select your printer and click on Printer Properties.
  • Under the Color or Paper/Quality tab, ensure Grayscale or Black & White is not selected.

3. Check Color Settings in the HP Smart App

If you're printing from the HP Smart app, ensure that the color settings are correct:

• Open the HP Smart app on your computer or mobile device.
• Select your printer and look for the color options in the print settings.
• Ensure that the color printing option is selected.

4. Perform a Printhead Cleaning

Clogged or dirty printheads can prevent the printer from printing in color, even though there is ink in the cartridges. Most HP printers have an option to clean the printhead via the printer’s control panel or HP software:

• On the printer:
  • Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printheads.
• Through the HP Smart app or printer software: Look for a cleaning tool in the app or program to clean the printhead.

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