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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printing Errors or Lights & Stuck Print Jobs
- Problem with the printhead on my Officejet Pro 6830

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02-06-2025 10:28 AM
Hi @BillDaly
Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.
The printhead error on your HP OfficeJet Pro 6830 can be frustrating, especially if you're unable to remove the printhead for cleaning or replacement.
Here are some steps and workarounds you can try to address this issue:
1. Perform a Printhead Cleaning from the Printer Software
Even though you cannot perform the cleaning from the printer display, you might be able to do it from the printer software on your computer:
Open the HP Printer Assistant: This should be installed on your computer. If you don't have it, download and install the full feature software and drivers from the HP support site.
Select 'Utilities' or 'Printer Maintenance': The exact menu might vary.
Run the Printhead Cleaning Utility: Follow the on-screen instructions to clean the printhead.
2. Manually Clean the Printhead Contacts
Even though you cannot remove the printhead, you can still clean the electrical contacts:
Turn off the Printer and Unplug it: Ensure safety before proceeding.
Open the Printer: Access the printhead area.
Remove the Ink Cartridges: Carefully take out all the ink cartridges.
Clean the Contacts: Use a lint-free cloth lightly moistened with distilled water to gently wipe the electrical contacts on the printhead and the corresponding contacts in the printer.
Allow to Dry: Ensure everything is completely dry before reassembling.
Reinstall the Ink Cartridges and Turn on the Printer: Check if the error persists.
3. Reset the Printer
Resetting can sometimes clear errors:
Turn on the Printer.
With the Printer On, Disconnect the Power Cord: Unplug it from the printer.
Wait for 60 Seconds: This allows the printer to reset.
Reconnect the Power Cord and Turn on the Printer: Check if the error is resolved.
4. Update or Reinstall Printer Firmware Update the firmware on an HP printer
Ensure your printer firmware is up to date:
Go to the HP Support Site: HP OfficeJet Pro 6830 drivers.
Download the Latest Firmware: Install it according to the provided instructions.
5. Bypass the Error (Last Resort)
This is not generally recommended as it can cause damage to the printer, but some users have reported success:
Turn off the Printer.
Press and Hold the Power Button and the Cancel Button Simultaneously.
Turn on the Printer: Continue to hold the buttons until the printer powers on and you see a message on the screen. Release the buttons and see if the error is bypassed.
We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution. We hope our assistance has been helpful!
If this solution hit the spot, please come back and click "Accepted Solution" to help others find the answer. And if you'd like to say thanks, select "Yes" on the bottom left of the public post, as that would make our day!
Take care, and have an amazing day!
Regards,
Vince_0406
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!
02-06-2025 10:35 AM
Dear Vince,
I had tried and then redid did everything that you listed in your message to me. Nothing worked.
It is still the same message. Can you please tell me what the next step would be?
Thank you very much,
Bill Daly