Error message with two exclamation marks

[Muse12]

I'm getting this error message when I try to print. The paper feeds through fine but there is no ink on it. The ink levels are fine. The printer scans fine, so it's not a connection problem. There is no paper jammed in the machine. Could you please suggest how to fix this? Thanks.

[Hawks_Eye · Accepted solution]

Hi @Muse12 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

If your HP DeskJet 2720e prints blank pages despite showing full ink levels, the issue is likely caused by dried ink, clogged nozzles, or a miscommunication between the cartridge and printer. This can happen even when everything else appears normal.

Step-by-Step Fix for Blank Page Printing on HP DeskJet 2720e

 

1. Run the Built-In Printhead Cleaning Utility

• Open HP Smart or go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers
• Right-click your printer > Printing Preferences
• Navigate to Maintenance or Service tab
• Select Clean Printhead

This clears dried ink and restores flow through the nozzles.

 

2. Check Cartridge Seating and Protective Tape

• Power off the printer and open the cartridge access door
• Remove both cartridges and inspect:
  • Ensure the plastic tape covering the ink nozzles has been removed
  • Check for clogged or dried ink on the nozzles
  • Reinsert cartridges firmly until they click into place

Improper seating or leftover tape can block ink flow entirely.

 

3. Print a Test Page

• From HP Smart, go to Printer Settings > Print Quality Tools
• Select Print Diagnostic Page

This helps confirm whether ink is flowing and identifies which cartridge may be affected.

 

4. Update or Reinstall the Printer Driver

• Visit: HP DeskJet 2720e Drivers
• Download and install the Full Software Solution
• Restart your PC and printer

This ensures full compatibility and restores advanced print controls.

 

5. Try a Different Document or App

• Open a simple document in Notepad or WordPad
• Try printing from there

This rules out file-specific or app-specific formatting issues.

 

6. Replace the Cartridge (If Needed)

If cleaning and reseating don’t help, the cartridge may be defective or dried internally.

• Use a new HP 305 or HP 305XL cartridge (black or tri-color)
• Install and run a test print

Even full cartridges can fail if unused for extended periods.

Let me know what happens after cleaning the printhead and reinstalling the driver—I’ll guide you further if needed. 

You're doing everything right by checking the basics and staying proactive.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye