slow printing

[Cousinchas]

Printing has recently taken from 30 seconds to 2 minutes to start. Each page seems to take a little longer.

I think there was a recent auto update from HP.

I tried a simple test doc with only a couple of lines of type and it took over 2 minutes.

We have 2 laptops with wireless connection to this printer and both have same problem. I ran the HP diagnostics program but it did not help.

[8lives]

Try printing without the color cartridge.

[Cousinchas]

This machine will not print without both cartridges installed. Anyway, it is just as slow printing only black. The color cartridge is 3/4 full. What would that have to do with it?

[8lives]

The single-cartridge mode is initiated when an ink cartridge is removed from the ink cartridge carriage on the 4500 series.

Just testing if there is ink in the black cartridge.

[RichAnt · Accepted solution]

Hello Cousin,

OK, so some questions.  Please reply with results for future reference. 

Is the blue light on the front solid blue, blinking or not on?  Solid blue indicates the printer is wi-fi connected.  As compared with Step 1. below -  the computer and printer also needs to connect wirelessly.

HP automatic updates, do you mean both laptops are HP, yes that can affect the printer.

First run the Print and Scan Doctor below (*)  does it tell anything, results?

The link below (**) will have you do lots of tests; but do these steps (1-3)first.  If one of them corrects it, discontinue the rest.  These are in this link:  HP Printers - Slow Printing https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/bud03409

1.  The computers may not connect wirelessly with the printer.  Do a restart - turn off router/modem (unplug power cord), printer and computers (turn off both).  Leave modem off 60 seconds and then restart in that order.  Let each successively completely turn on (no blinking lights).  Turn on both computers.  Any success?

2.  Uninstall printer's software (on one computer to see if it helps) and reinstall the software.  With the printer turned on, go to 123.HP.com where it will automatically id the computer and download/install.  Does it work?  (do not use the software disc that comes with the printer as it likely is not MOST RECENT)  Do the same on both computers, individually.

3.  Hard reset of the printer.  On the front display, click Setup > Wireless Menu > Restore Defaults > Yes.  Restart the printer. Step 1 in the above link has another method. 

* Run Print and Scan Doctor, get it here (plus lots of other tips):

https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/c03286146

** This link is for troubleshooting if Printer Does Not Maintain Wireless Connection

http://hp.dezide.com/ts/start.jsp?guide=Printer_Does_Not_Maintain_Wireless_Connection.net&as=true&se...

The above came from this Troubleshooting Envy 4500

https://support.hp.com/us-en/product/hp-envy-4500-e-all-in-one-printer-series/5304875/model/5304876/...

Other environment factors - has anything changed. 

Have you recently printed color photos?  Step 2 in the first link above is checking the Print Dialog for Plain Paper (instead of color), which can affect speed of printing.

How far from the printer are the computers, move closer.  Are there objects blocking the wireless signal.  Plug the printer directly into a wall outlet.  Do you have wireless devices nearby that interfere such as wireless phones. 

[Cousinchas]

Ok, the HP customer support page 1st step to unplug printer power seems to have fixed it.

The problem was not slow printing but the wait time between clicking the print button and the machine starting, even though the printer showed an excellent wifi connection.

Thanks for your help.

[RichAnt]

Wonderful!