Photosmart Prem C410 series ink leaking

[chrislovespugs]

My printer is 5 years old but up until now it has been perfect - never had a problem with it!

Recently, I noticed there was ink underneath the printer and it seemed to be coming from the bottom. Further investigation revealed a whole bunch of ink that had leaked on the right side under where the ink cartridges stop.

I'm not sure what's causing it, but it's a big mess in there and I don't know if it's worth trying to clean it out. (My fingers are already black from cleaning the desk/underside!)

I have purchased another printer but would like to keep this one too if I can. However, if it's too hard or costs too much then I probably won't bother, especially given the age of the printer.

Here's a photo:

[Bob_Headrick · Accepted solution]

The area you show is the "service station" where some ink is "spit" to keep the nozzles clear, typically before, during and after printing.  It is unusual for this area to fill and overflow, there are a few things that could cause excessive ink in the service station:

• Using an external power switch.  If power is removed (with an outlet switch or other external switch) then more ink is used at startup.  The printer should always be connected to a live outlet and only the printer's power switch used to turn off the printer.
• Running "cleaning cycles".  Manual cleaning cycles from the front panel or printer toolbox are rarely necessary.  They use ink and should be avoided unless necessary (practically never).

You may be able to clean the service station area as follows:  remove the printhead and set it aside.  Take the printer outside to an area that will not mind ink.  Use plastic spoon to remove the bulk of the ink from the service area, being careful not to disturb the wipers. Rinse the service area out thoroughly, warm soapy water would be good for this, perhaps a hose at low pressure.  Be careful to avoid getting ink on the thin encoder strip (the clear ~1/4" wide strip that runs the width of the printer).  Also avoid getting ink or too much water in the electronics.  After cleaning dry the printer by gently blotting with paper towels.  Allow the printer to dry completely before plugging the printer back in and reinstalling the printhead.