My printer will only print when Glossy Photo Paper is selected

[as7028]

When I try to print documents on plain 8.5" x 11" paper the print quality is horrible and it looks like the ink has run out.  However, after many attempts I have found that even though I have the plain paper in the printer, if I select the paper type of Photo Paper Glossy the documents print better, and is legible. 

How do I correct this? 

[Sneha_01]

HI @as7028,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like there may be an issue with the printer's settings or calibration. Here are some steps you can take to try and correct this issue:

Check Printer Settings: Make sure that the printer settings match the type of paper you're using. This includes selecting "Plain Paper" as the paper type in the printer settings.

Calibrate Printer: Some printers have a calibration option in the settings menu. This can help ensure that the printer is properly configured for the type of paper you're using. Look for a calibration option in your printer's settings menu and follow the on-screen instructions.

Clean Print Heads: If the print quality is still poor, it's possible that the print heads may be clogged or dirty. Most printers have a cleaning utility that you can run to clean the print heads. Refer to your printer's manual for instructions on how to access and use this utility.

Check Ink Levels: Ensure that the ink cartridges are not empty or low on ink. If they are, replace them with new cartridges.

Update Printer Firmware: Check if there are any firmware updates available for your printer. Sometimes, updating the firmware can resolve printing issues.

Try Different Paper: If the issue persists, try printing on a different type of plain paper. It's possible that the paper you're using is not compatible with your printer.

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

[as7028]

Updates: (Printer:  HP5222)

Check Printer Settings:

Calibrate Printer: I do not have this option on my printer.

Clean Print Heads: I changed the paper type to "Plain Paper" and tried to clean the printheads (ran both cleaning tests), and the black ink was not legible. I changed the paper type back to "Photo Paper Glossy" and ran the tests again. This time I could read the black ink but there were streaks in it.  

Check Ink Levels: I have the instant ink account, and it says I am good on my ink levels and do not have the option to reorder.

Update Printer Firmware: I am up to date, no updates were available. 

Try Different Paper: I've been printing on the same paper for quite some time. But I did try to change paper and that did not solve the issue. 

Looks like I will have to call support and walk through these tests again with them and hopefully they will send new ink.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @as7028 ,

We are sorry that the issue is not resolved when the above troubleshooting steps were performed.

Unfortunately, there are no further actions we can take through this channel. I recommend reaching out to our phone support for further assistance.

1. Click on this link -  https://support.hp.com/us-en

2. Select the country.

3. Enter the serial number of your device.

4. Select the country from the drop-down.

5. Click on "Show Options".

6. Fill out the web form. A case number and phone number will now populate for you.

Please feel free to contact us here anytime you need any further assistance.

Have a great day!

Rachel571 

HP Support

[as7028 · Accepted solution]

I am just following up on this that after calling I was supplied new black ink and I am now able to print with "Plain Paper" selected.