Why are my XL color/black ink cartridges running out SO fast?

[Sunny1969]

My HP Envy 6055e printer is less than a year old. I'm having to replace my color/black cartridges every other month! I only print about 20 pages of text (some have a color logo) per month. I tried purchasing less expensive cartridges that are compatible with HP printers, but HP detected it wasn't theirs and my printer wouldn't work. I had to throw those away and buy new ones. I'm purchasing the XL cartridges which are not cheap. Had I known this when I bought my HP printer, I would've bought something different. This is ridiculous!

[Gaya1239]

Hi @Sunny1969 ,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand your frustration with the HP ENVY 6055e and the fast depletion of your ink cartridges, especially considering the light usage you’re describing. Here are some possible reasons and steps to help you optimize ink usage:

1. Frequent Powering On and Off

• If you turn your printer on and off frequently, it might consume more ink. HP printers go through a short cleaning cycle every time they start up, using a small amount of ink. Leaving the printer on (it will go into sleep mode automatically) can reduce these cleaning cycles.

2. Printer Firmware and HP Ink Compatibility Update the firmware on an HP printer

• HP printers can detect non-HP cartridges, which can limit your options to save on ink costs. However, HP has an Instant Ink subscription plan that can be more economical, particularly for low-volume printing. With Instant Ink, you’re charged based on pages printed rather than the ink used, and HP sends you replacement cartridges when needed.

3. Settings for Print Quality HP DeskJet, ENVY 6000, 6400 printers - No black ink, wrong colors, other print quality issues

• Ensure you are using “Draft” or “Normal” quality in your print settings for everyday documents. Higher-quality modes use more ink. This setting can typically be adjusted in the print dialog under “Properties” or “Preferences.”

4. Frequent Color Usage for Logos and Headers

• Even though you’re printing mostly text, the color logos may be depleting the color cartridges faster than expected. Try changing documents to grayscale or black-and-white printing when color is not essential.

5. Check for Firmware UpdatesUpdate the firmware on an HP printer

• Occasionally, HP releases firmware updates that can improve ink efficiency. Check the HP Smart app or HP’s support website to ensure your printer’s firmware is up to date.

6. Alternative Printers for Low Volume Users

• If these steps don’t help, it might be worth considering a different printer, especially one designed for low-volume use, such as an EcoTank or a laser printer. Laser printers are often more cost-effective for users who print mainly in black and white and at low volume.

Refer to this document: HP ENVY 6055e All-in-One Printer User manual

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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