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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printing Errors or Lights & Stuck Print Jobs
- Error message - New unused cartridges must be used for start...

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09-25-2023 10:45 AM
Hello!
I have an HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 All in One printer, and suddenly it won't print and an error message pops up on the screen - "New, unused cartridges must be used for startup". I replaced the cartridges with brand-new HP cartridges, cleaned the connections, restarted, etc., but nothing helps. Any suggestions?
10-01-2023 04:06 AM
Hi @Kim1610,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
It's frustrating when you encounter issues with your printer, especially after replacing the cartridges with new ones. The error message you're seeing indicates that the printer is not recognizing the new cartridges as "new" or "unused." Here are some steps you can try to resolve this issue.
Reinstall the Cartridges:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
- Remove all the cartridges from the printer.
- Carefully reinsert the new cartridges into their respective slots, making sure they are securely seated.
Clean the Cartridge Contacts:
- Sometimes, the contacts on the cartridges or within the printer can get dirty or covered with ink residue. Gently clean both the cartridge contacts and the corresponding contacts inside the printer using a lint-free cloth or cotton swab.
Reset the Printer:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
- Wait for about 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in and turn it on.
- Check if the error message persists.
Update Printer Firmware:
- Ensure your printer has the latest firmware updates. You can usually find instructions for updating the firmware in the printer's user manual or on the HP support website.
Check Cartridge Expiry Dates:
- Verify that the new cartridges are not expired. Cartridges have an expiration date printed on the packaging, and using expired cartridges can sometimes cause issues.
Perform a Hard Reset:
- A hard reset can sometimes clear persistent errors. To do this, with the printer powered on, disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer and wait for about 60 seconds. Reconnect the power cord and turn on the printer.
Try Different Cartridges:
- If possible, try using a different set of new cartridges to see if the issue persists. There's a slight chance that the cartridges themselves might be defective.
Remember to follow your printer's user manual for any specific instructions related to cartridge replacement or troubleshooting.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
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Alden4
HP Support
HP Support Community Moderator