• ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
  • ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
Guidelines
Experiencing 'Printer Blocked' or 'Printer Error' message? Click here for more information.
Check some of the most frequent questions about Instant Ink: HP INSTANT INK, HP+ PLANS: INK AND TONER.


Check out our Black or Color Ink Not Printing, Other Print Quality Issues info about: Print quality and Cartridge Issues.
HP Recommended
HP Smart Tank 5000/5100 All-in-One Printer

I was printing two copies of an small standard envelope.  The first envelope is stuck somewhere inside the printer.  Cannot see it.  The second was still sticking up so I pulled it out.  Printer message is E3.  How do I get that envelope out.

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @NYLizzie,

 

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

 

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

 

I understand you are facing an issue with your HP Smart Tank 5000/5100 printer has an envelope jam, and the printer has displayed the E3 error, which typically indicates a paper jam in the printer. Here are the steps you can follow to clear the jam and get the envelope out:
 

Step 1: Turn off the Printer

  • Power off the printer completely to avoid any risk of damage or injury when you are working inside it.

Step 2: Open the Printer Cover

  • Open the top cover or ink access door of the printer (where the cartridges are).
  • You should be able to see the paper path or any visible jams that might be present.

Step 3: Check the Paper Path

  • Look inside carefully for any paper or envelope that may be stuck. The jam might be hidden inside the printer, making it hard to see at first glance.
  • If you can see part of the envelope or paper, gently pull it out in the direction of the paper path. Be careful not to tear the paper or envelope as you pull it out, as small pieces could cause further jams.

Step 4: Open the Rear Door (If Available)

  • Some printers, including HP models, have a rear access panel. If your HP Smart Tank 5000/5100 has this feature, open the rear door or panel to get a better view of the paper path.
  • Gently pull out any stuck paper or envelope from this rear access point. This often gives you better leverage if the paper is stuck deep inside.

Step 5: Check the Paper Feed Area

  • Check the paper tray and the paper feed rollers. Sometimes, small pieces of paper or envelopes get caught in the rollers.
  • If necessary, use a flashlight to check for any debris in this area.
  • If you can see any foreign objects or bits of paper that you can remove, do so carefully.

Step 6: Reset the Printer

  • Once you have cleared any visible paper or envelope pieces, close all doors and covers.
  • Plug the printer back in and power it on.
  • If the printer still displays the E3 error, you may need to perform a reset to clear the error message.

Step 7: Perform a Printer Reset (If Necessary)

  • If the printer is still showing the E3 error after you've cleared the jam, perform a reset:
    1. Turn off the printer.
    2. Unplug the power cable from the back of the printer.
    3. Wait for 30 seconds.
    4. Plug the power cable back in and turn the printer back on.

Step 8: Run a Test Print

  • Once the printer is powered back up and the error message is cleared, try printing a test page or another envelope to ensure the issue is resolved.

Refer to this document: HP Smart Tank 5000/5100 All-in-One Printer User manual

HP Printers - Carriage jam or E3 error
 

I hope this helps. 

 

Take care and have a good day.

 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. 


A_Gayathri
HP Support Community Administrator.
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.