Smear line on pages

[Kai1111]

I keep getting smear lines across the page. I have cleaned the printhead and cleaned the smear multiple times. 

I cannot get in touch with an agent. I have chatted with the virtual assistant which keeps telling me to choose agent. After a while it tells me that there are no agents available and goes back to being a virtual assistant asking if I have any other issues. 

HELP ME!!! 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Kai1111,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

I understand how frustrating it can be to deal with smear lines on your prints and having trouble reaching a live support agent. Here are some steps you can take to address the smear lines issue and work around the difficulties in contacting support:

1. Thoroughly Clean the Printhead

Even though you've cleaned the printhead before, it might be worth trying again, especially focusing on these areas:

Manual Cleaning:

• Turn Off Printer: Ensure the printer is turned off and unplugged.
• Remove Printhead: Carefully remove the printhead according to your printer's manual.
• Clean with Lint-Free Cloth: Use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water or a specialized cleaning solution. Gently wipe the printhead nozzles and the area where the printhead makes contact with the cartridges.
• Dry and Reinstall: Allow everything to dry completely before reinstalling the printhead.

Cleaning Cartridges:

• Inspect Cartridges: Check the cartridges for any signs of leakage or damage. Clean the electrical contacts on the cartridges with a dry, lint-free cloth.

2. Check and Adjust Printer Settings

Print Quality Settings:

• Access Settings: Go to your printer's properties or preferences on your computer.
• Adjust Quality: Set the print quality to a higher setting, which might reduce or eliminate smear lines.

Paper Type:

• Use Proper Paper: Ensure you are using the correct type of paper for your printer and print job. Some paper types can cause smearing, especially if the printer's settings are not adjusted accordingly.

3. Inspect for Hardware Issues

Check Rollers and Interior:

• Clean Rollers: Open the printer and inspect the rollers. Clean them with a lint-free cloth and a little distilled water if needed.
• Check for Obstructions: Ensure there are no paper jams or obstructions inside the printer.

Replace Parts:

• Maintenance Kit: Some printers have maintenance kits or parts that may need replacing if they are worn out or damaged.

4. Perform a Printer Reset

1. Factory Reset:
   • Reset Printer: Performing a factory reset can sometimes clear persistent issues. Refer to your printer’s manual for instructions on how to perform a reset.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support