iMac not recognizing printer

[Devongal]

Currently have a disconnection between iMac and printer after massive power cut. Rebooted everything! The printer and iMac are connected to the wi-fi and I could print something from the HP app. However, when I try to print, for instance, a recipe and go to File: Print: there is no printer recognized in that section. I tried to add the printer but no list shows up. Aaaargh!!

Someone please help me

[Deep_World]

Hi  @Devongal,
 
Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

I understand how this must feel, especially after dealing with a power cut. You’ve already done a lot of the right steps, so let’s work together to get your iMac and printer talking again. 
Could you please share the exact HP printer model you’re using? 

Here are a few steps you can try:

1. Reset printing system: On your iMac, go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners. Right‑click (or Control‑click) in the printer list and choose “Reset printing system.” This clears out old connections and lets you start fresh.
2. Re-add printer manually: After resetting, click the “+” button to add a printer. If your printer doesn’t appear, try selecting “Add Printer or Scanner” and wait a moment for it to populate.
3. Check AirPrint vs driver: Sometimes macOS defaults to AirPrint, which can cause issues. If your printer supports HP drivers, make sure the correct driver is installed instead of AirPrint.
4. Verify IP address: Since you can print from the HP app, the printer is online. Note its IP address from the printer’s control panel, then try adding it manually on your iMac using “IP” in the add printer dialog.
5. Update macOS and HP software: Ensure your iMac has the latest updates, and download the HP Smart App to refresh drivers if needed.

You’ve already confirmed the printer works via the HP app, so the issue is specifically with macOS recognizing it. Resetting the printing system and re‑adding usually resolves this kind of disconnect after a power outage.

I hope this helps. 

[Devongal]

Hi There - Thanks for your quick response

The printer is a HP Deskjet 2852e and the model is VCVRA-2201-01

Okay - I added the printer's IP address and that seemed to work and tried to print - the top bar showed the printer and it accepting the print but it failed to print.

Still in trouble here!

It says the driver is 10.4 - this is double dutch to me! No idea if this iMac has AirPrint - I don't think so -In the print centre it says the printer is idle: default

Computer did an update last night