Printer won't print blue

[Marsha95]

Has anyone found an actual solution to HP Officejet 8030 series not printing blue?

I cleaned the printhead, that didn't work.  Re-booted, didn't work.  The page that prints out to align the print cartridges doesn't have blue on it.

Tech support keeps taking me in circles and I cannot find an actual solution, suggestions, customer service.  No help at all.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Marsha95 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

If your HP OfficeJet 8030 series printer is not printing blue despite cleaning the printhead and rebooting, there are several steps you can take to resolve the problem. 

Here's a detailed guide to help you troubleshoot and hopefully fix the issue:

 

Check for Issues with the Ink Cartridges

1. Inspect Cartridges: Open the cartridge access area and check for any visible issues. Ensure that the cartridges are properly seated into their slots.
2. Replace Non-HP Cartridges: If you are using non-HP or refilled cartridges, replace them with genuine HP cartridges. This ensures optimal performance and print quality.
3. Check Ink Levels: Verify ink levels from the printer control panel or the HP Smart app. If the blue cartridge is empty or low, replace it with a new cartridge.

 

Clean Cartridge Vents

1. Remove the Cartridges: Carefully remove each cartridge from its slot. Do not leave cartridges outside of the printer for more than 30 minutes to avoid damage.
2. Clean the Vent: Use a pin or paperclip to gently clear any debris or excess adhesive from the vent on top of the cartridge. A blocked vent can prevent ink from flowing properly.

 

Align the Printhead

1. Use the Printer Control Panel: On the printer control panel, open the Setup menu, touch Printer Maintenance or Tools, and then select Align Printhead. Follow the prompts on screen.

 

Check the Print Settings

1. Check Paper Type: Ensure that you're using appropriate paper for your print job. Some paper types can affect how ink is absorbed.
2. Print Job Settings: Make sure the print settings are correctly set for color printing, including correct paper type, paper size, and quality settings.

 

Run All Levels of Printhead Cleaning

• Go to:
  Setup > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead
• Run Level 1, then test.
• If still poor, run Level 2.
• Avoid running more than 2–3 cleanings in a row to prevent ink waste.

 

Try Manual Printhead Cleaning

• Remove the cartridges.
• Gently clean the printhead contacts and cartridge contacts with a lint-free cloth moistened with distilled water.
• Let dry for 5 minutes, reinstall, and test again.

Let me know how far you get with these steps. I’ll stick with you until that blue ink flows again. You deserve better than circles.

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