printer not working, lights stay on

[lulubecker]

Every time I plug my printer into the socket, all the lights turn on and the number of sheets shows an E or 8, otherwise it keeps flashing. I've tried resetting it, I've cleaned it, I've changed the cartridges. Printer HP Deskjet F4280.

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @lulubecker ,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand your HP Deskjet F4280 All-in-One Printer is encountering a hardware or internal communication issue, especially with the error code you mentioned ("E" or "8" display). Here are some troubleshooting steps to try:

1. Reset the Printer (Hard Reset)

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Disconnect any USB cables connected to the printer.
• Wait for 2-3 minutes, then plug the printer back into the power source and turn it on.
• If it powers on without flashing lights, reconnect the USB cable to your computer.

2. Check for Paper Jams or Obstructions

• Even a small piece of paper can trigger error lights. Open the printer, check all areas (input tray, output tray, cartridge compartment), and remove any obstructions.

3. Clean Cartridge Contacts

• Since you've already changed the cartridges, it’s worth cleaning the electrical contacts:
  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
  2. Remove the ink cartridges.
  3. Use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol to clean the copper-colored contacts on both the cartridges and the corresponding areas inside the printer.
  4. Let them dry for a few minutes, reinstall the cartridges, and power the printer back on.

4. Printer Diagnostic Tool

• HP provides a Print and Scan Doctor tool for troubleshooting issues. If your computer can still communicate with the printer, download and run the tool from HP's website.

5. Reinstall Printer Software

• Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause issues. Uninstall the printer driver from your computer and reinstall the latest version:
  • Go to the HP Support website, search for your printer model, and download the latest drivers.
  • After reinstalling the drivers, restart both the printer and your computer.

6. Check for Overheating

• Sometimes printers display errors due to overheating. Ensure that the printer has proper ventilation and hasn't been in continuous operation for too long. Let it cool down for a while and try turning it back on.

Refer to this document: HP Deskjet F4280 All-in-One Printer User manual  
Blinking Lights on the HP Deskjet F4200 All-in-One Printer

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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