HP Smart tank - Printer makes grinding noise.

[Toffeebits]

I just bought a HP Smart Tank 7300 printer.  Every time it prints it makes a loud grinding noise.  It prints fine, but this grinding noise sounds like it will break any minute.  Is this normal?

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Toffeebits,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

The loud grinding noise coming from your HP Smart Tank 7300 printer is not normal and could indicate a mechanical issue or misalignment within the printer. Here’s how you can troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem:

1. Check for Obstructions

Inspect the Paper Path:

• Open all accessible doors, including the paper tray and cartridge access door.
• Look for any paper scraps or foreign objects that might be obstructing the printer’s moving parts.

Examine the Printhead Area:

• Ensure there are no obstructions around the printhead or the ink system.

2. Inspect the Print Cartridges and Ink System

Check Cartridge Installation:

• Open the cartridge access door and verify that the cartridges are installed correctly and are not misaligned or jammed.

Clean the Cartridges:

• Ensure the cartridges are properly seated and that their contacts are clean. Gently clean the contacts with a lint-free cloth if needed.

3. Check the Ink System

• Examine the Ink Supply System:
  • For printers with an integrated ink tank system, ensure that the ink tanks are properly installed and that there are no issues with the ink tubes or connectors.

4. Verify Printhead Alignment

• Run Printhead Alignment:
  • Access the printer’s maintenance menu (usually found under Setup or Tools on the control panel) and run the printhead alignment utility. Misalignment can sometimes cause unusual noises.

5. Perform a Printer Reset

• Power Cycle the Printer:
  • Turn off the printer using the power button.
  • Unplug the power cord from the printer and the electrical outlet.
  • Wait for about 60 seconds.
  • Plug the power cord back in and turn the printer on.

6. Inspect for Mechanical Issues

Check Moving Parts:

• Inspect the gears and rollers for any signs of damage or obstruction. Look for anything that might be out of alignment or causing friction.

Listen to the Noise Source:

• Try to determine where the grinding noise is coming from. If it seems to be from a specific area, that might give a clue about what’s causing the issue.

7. Update Printer Firmware

• Check for Firmware Updates:
  • Visit the HP Support website and search for your HP Smart Tank 7300 model.
  • Download and install any available firmware updates. Firmware updates can sometimes resolve mechanical or operational issues.

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