Unable to print

[Andreina1687]

Everytime I would like to print a document there is always an issue with the printer and take me hours to figure out whats going on 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Andreina1687,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

Consistently facing issues with printing can be frustrating. Here are some comprehensive steps to help you troubleshoot and resolve common printer issues, ensuring smoother operation and minimizing the time spent diagnosing problems.

• Ensure the printer is properly connected to your computer or network. If using a USB cable, ensure it is securely plugged in. For wireless printers, check the Wi-Fi connection.
• Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, wait for about a minute, then plug it back in and turn it on.
• Ensure the printer you want to use is set as the default printer.
  • On Windows: Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers, right-click on your printer, and select Set as default printer.
  • On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners, select your printer, and click on Default Printer.

Check for Paper Jams:

• Open the printer and check for any paper jams. Remove any stuck paper carefully.

Check Ink or Toner Levels:

• Ensure the printer has sufficient ink or toner. Replace any empty or low cartridges.

Update Printer Drivers:

• Go to the HP  website and download the latest drivers for your printer model. Install them on your computer.

Clear Print Queue:

• Sometimes, a stuck print job can cause issues. Clear the print queue.
  • On Windows: Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers, right-click on your printer, and select See what's printing. Right-click in the print queue window and select Cancel All Documents.
  • On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners, select your printer, and click Open Print Queue. Then, click the X next to each document to cancel it.

Run the Printer Troubleshooter:

• On Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot, and select Printer. Follow the prompts.
• On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners, select your printer, and click Options & Supplies. Check for any troubleshooting options.

Specific Issues and Solutions

Printer Offline:

• Ensure the printer is turned on and connected to the same network as your computer.
• Restart your router if using a network printer.
• On Windows: Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers, right-click your printer, and uncheck Use Printer Offline.
• On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners, and ensure your printer is not paused or offline.

Print Spooler Service Issues:

• Sometimes the print spooler service can cause issues. Restart the service.
  • On Windows: Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter. Find Print Spooler, right-click, and select Restart.

Corrupted Printer Drivers:

• Uninstall and reinstall the printer drivers.
  • On Windows: Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers, right-click your printer, and select Remove device. Then, reinstall the latest drivers from the HP website.
  • On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners, select your printer, and click the - button to remove it. Re-add it by clicking the + button and reinstalling the drivers.

Network Printer Issues:

• Ensure your printer and computer are on the same network.
• Check your router settings to ensure it allows devices to communicate with each other.

Firmware Update:

• Check if there is a firmware update available for your printer and update it.

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