I got repeated errors for no apparent reason, print quality is poor, and my ink & paper got wasted

[CathyMElliott]

I was trying to print a document and I got repeated errors for no apparent reason. It wasted my paper and ink. Also, the print quality is poor. I wanted to clean the printheads and this option doesn't seem to be available anymore 😔.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @CathyMElliott 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I hear you—nothing more frustrating than wasted ink and paper, especially when the print quality is poor. If the printhead cleaning option is missing, 

However, there are still ways to clean the printhead manually. 

Alternative Ways to Clean the Printhead

 

1. Use the Embedded Web Server (EWS)

• Open a web browser and enter your printer’s IP address.
• Navigate to Settings > Print Quality Toolbox.
• Look for Clean Printhead and follow the instructions.

2. Try HP Smart App

• Open HP Smart on your computer or mobile device.
• Go to Printer Settings > Maintenance.
• If available, select Clean Printhead.

3. Perform a Hard Reset

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on.
• This can sometimes restore missing options.

4. Clean the Printhead Manually

• Remove the ink cartridges and locate the printhead.
• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to gently wipe the copper contacts.
• Allow it to dry completely before reinserting.

You can also check HP’s official troubleshooting guide for printhead cleaning here.

Let me know if you need further clarification! Hopefully, this gets your printer back to producing high-quality prints. 😊

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