Printing only blank white pages despite troubleshooting

[Maggie_DogMom]

Despite unplugging, restarting, updating firmware, cleaning the full cartridges four times, using standard sized paper, and appropriate settings, my printer only "prints" blank white pages.  I haven't been able to use the "print" feature for quite some time and it's frustrating!  It's now just functioning as a scanner and I want it fixed. 

[Max3Aj]

Hi @Maggie_DogMom,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

Since you've already tried most of the standard troubleshooting steps, let's go deeper.

Perform a Hard Reset

• Unplug the printer while it's on.
• Wait 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in and turn it on.

Check the Ink Nozzles

If your printer allows, print a printhead test page or print quality report from the printer menu. If no ink appears, the printhead may be clogged.

Run a Deep Printhead Cleaning

• On your printer’s control panel, navigate to Settings > Tools > Clean Printhead (if available).
• If that doesn’t work, try "Second-Level" or "Deep Cleaning" if your printer has the option.

Manually Clean the Printhead

If printhead cleaning doesn’t help, manually clean it:

1. Remove the cartridges and look for a removable printhead (not all printers have this).
2. Dampen a lint-free cloth with warm distilled water and gently wipe the nozzles.
3. Let it dry completely before reinstalling.

Check for Clogged Air Vents (Cartridges with Vents Only)

Some HP ink cartridges have small air vents.

• Look for clogged vents on the cartridge and clean them with a pin or needle.

Try a Different Set of Cartridges

Even if the cartridges show as full, they might be defective. Try a different set of cartridges if possible.

Reset the Printer to Factory Defaults

If nothing works, reset the printer:

• Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Restore Defaults (menu options vary by model).

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Max3Aj

HP Support