Hp All-in-one Black And White Printer

How to Troubleshoot Common HP Printer Problems

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HP printers are some of the best for home and office use. When problems occur, however, it can be frustrating troubleshooting cryptic errors. Fortunately, a few simple diagnostic steps can help you get your HP printer functioning again. In addition, HP has made available some troubleshooting software to identify the root of the problem.

For cases where you are unable to fix issues yourself or using the provided software, you will need to take your printer to a professional. This guide shows you how to identify and fix the most common HP printer problems.

Is Your HP Printer Not Working?

Common symptoms of a printer malfunction include the following:

The printer does not power on
The printer produces ink-soiled prints
The job does not get printed at all
The prints are sent to the wrong printer
Paper gets jammed

If you see any of these troublesome signs, then it's possible your printer has malfunctioned and needs attention. The severity of the problem may be small enough that you can fix it yourself. Some printer malfunctions, however, require professional repairmen, especially for more expensive heavy duty printers.

Before you go about calling the repairmen, you should see if the malfunction can't be addressed with a simple do-it-yourself fix.

Learning How Your HP Printer Works

There are two main types of printers available from HP, and it helps to be aware of how your specific model works.

Inkjet printers - HP sells inkjet printers such as the HP Envy 4520, HP OfficeJet 4650, and HP OfficeJet Pro 7740. Inkjet printers work by shooting a very fine stream of ink at the paper. The parts of an inkjet printer include gears that move the paper, ribbon cable that conveys printing instructions, and print cartridge.
Laser printers - HP also provides laser printers, including the HP LaserJet Pro Multi-function, HP LaserJet Enterprise, and others. In a laser printer, electronically operated ink guns are replaced with a laser beam that guides ink to form a print impression. A fuser unit then sticks toner to the paper.

Diagnosing Common HP Printer Problems

There are some basic guidelines you can use to fix the HP printer problem you are having.

First, if the printer won't print at all or does not light up, check that all cables are connected. These include power as well as Ethernet cables. You also need to check the wireless connection if the printer connects wirelessly.

Next, if there is a paper jam, you will want to open up the paper feeding system and locate where the paper is clogged up. Then gently draw out the jumbled up paper and restart the printer. Other paper problems may be checked by looking at the paper feeding system as well.

If, on the other hand, your printer has no discernible jams but you still can't print, it's time to check other parts are working correctly.

In case the printer is printing but prints are soiled with ink or faint, then you might need to adjust your ink cartridge or toner.

Sometimes your printer fails to print not because there is anything wrong with the machine, but the software is misconfigured. If this is your first time setting up the printer, verify that you have followed all the instructions for configuring it.

How to Reach The HP Printers Help Desk

HP makes support available via several web channels for getting in touch. The first option for getting quick answers to common problems is to visit the HP forum from their HP Support website.

On the Support website, you will also have access to the online instant chat system which allows you to get in touch with HP reps. HP has a guided support system on their website that can help you find solutions to problems with your printer.

You may also send a support request, which is routed to their help desk. For this you need the serial number of your HP printer.

Options for Repair Work

Despite your best efforts, sometimes your HP printer will have a mechanical breakdown or other hard faults. When this happens, your best course of action will be to bring it to some professionals for proper repair.

HP has authorized support providers all around the United States. You can enter your ZIP code on HP's support website to locate authorized HP service providers.

You might also have the option of shipping your product to HP and having them repair it for you. You will need to get in touch with their support representatives to explore this option.