When I print I get a blank stripe down the middle of my page about 1 inch wide.

[Peter3131]

My printer has been working fine until it recently started leaving a Blenk vertical stripe down the middle of my pages almost an inch wide. I have run the clean print head, align print head, and clean smear many  times but it is still skipping the same stripe.

[Raj_05]

Hi @Peter3131,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 is consistently leaving a blank stripe down the middle of the page, even after running print head cleaning and alignment, there are a few additional steps you can try.

• Check for Printhead Obstructions: Make sure there is no debris or dried ink obstructing the printhead nozzles. Sometimes, using a soft, lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water can help clean the printhead area.
• Check Ink Levels: Ensure that all ink cartridges are full and properly installed. Low or empty cartridges can cause printing issues.
• Inspect the Cartridges: Remove the cartridges and check the contacts for any ink buildup or damage. Clean the contacts with a soft, dry cloth.
• Printhead Cleaning Solution: If the built-in cleaning functions aren't working, you might need to use a specialized printhead cleaning solution. Follow the HP instructions carefully if you decide to use such a product.
• Update Printer Firmware: Check for any available firmware updates for your printer. Sometimes, updates can resolve unexpected issues.
• Try Different Paper: Occasionally, the type or quality of the paper can affect print quality. Try using a different type or brand of paper.
• Reset Printer: Perform a factory reset on your printer to rule out any configuration issues. Refer to your printer’s manual for the exact steps to perform a reset.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support