-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center.
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center.
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printing Errors or Lights & Stuck Print Jobs
- Printer stuck
Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
11-13-2024 11:07 AM
Hi @Paul5554,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
The Error 3 code and solid orange light on your HP DeskJet 3730 usually indicate a paper jam or a carriage jam, though it could also be related to a general hardware issue. Here are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot.
Check for Paper Jams:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
- Open the paper tray and carefully inspect inside the printer for any paper jams or debris.
- Use a flashlight to check areas that are hard to see, and gently remove any jammed paper.
Clear Any Carriage Jam:
- Open the access door to the ink cartridges.
- Gently move the cartridge carriage to the center of the printer if it’s stuck.
- Make sure there’s nothing obstructing the carriage path.
Reset the Printer:
- After clearing any jams, close the doors, plug the printer back in, and turn it on.
- Check if the error and orange light are still present.
Check the Ink Cartridges:
- Sometimes, a poorly seated or low ink cartridge can trigger errors.
- Open the cartridge area, remove, and reinsert each cartridge firmly.
- Ensure both cartridges are recognized and seated correctly.
Hard Reset:
- Unplug the printer while it is on, wait for at least 60 seconds, and then plug it back in.
- Turn the printer back on and see if the error clears.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!
Alden4
HP Support
11-13-2024 02:16 PM
Hi @Paul5554,
Thank you for your response,
Since you've already done some basic troubleshooting steps, here are some advanced methods to try and resolve the flashing lights and error code.
Check for Ink Cartridge Leakage or Blockage
- If the ink cartridges are leaking, it might cause malfunctioning. Clean the cartridge and printhead areas with a lint-free cloth.
- Ensure there’s no excess ink on the contacts of the cartridges or the printer itself.
- If the cartridges are excessively leaking, you may need to replace them.
Inspect the Printer’s Sensors
- Sometimes the sensors that detect paper or carriage jams may become blocked or dirty.
- Use a can of compressed air to blow out any dust or debris around the paper path and ink carriage area.
- Carefully inspect the paper feed and cartridge areas for any blocked sensors or dirt.
Check for Internal Obstructions
- After confirming no paper jams or carriage blockages, check the internal mechanism for any other small objects or paper scraps that may have slipped inside.
- Use a flashlight and gently tap or shake the printer to see if any hidden debris falls out.
Perform a Printer Reset
- Reset the printer's NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory):
- Turn off the printer and unplug it for 60 seconds.
- While holding the 'Cancel' button, plug the printer back in and turn it on. Continue holding the button for 10 seconds after powering it on, and release it when the printer initializes.
- This reset may help clear internal errors or memory glitches.
Update or Reinstall Printer Firmware
- Ensure that the printer’s firmware is up-to-date. Check the HP support website for any firmware updates for your model.
- If you suspect software corruption, reinstalling the printer software may help fix lingering issues.
Service Mode Reset
- Some printers offer a service mode reset. This may be used for clearing deep hardware issues, including sensor malfunctions or calibration problems.
- Power off the printer.
- Hold down the 'Resume' button and press the 'Power' button simultaneously. Continue holding both for about 15 seconds, then release both.
- This should reset the printer’s internal settings to default.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!
Alden4
HP Support