Most of the time, the problem behind your printer not printing black lies in ink. Therefore, it is a recurring issue among inkjet printers where ink is a core component. A common fix is to check the ink level and refill it if necessary.
Even if there is enough ink in the cartridge, you can still experience such issues. The problem can be in the printer hardware or the system to which it’s connected. While solving your issue can be as simple as restarting the printer or the device connected, it may not work in each case.
Therefore, you have to try all the fixes until your problem is resolved.
Clean the Printhead
Sometimes, the printhead nozzles get clogged, due to which your printer fails to print black or any other color. The print output is also faded or of a different color. To fix it, you can clean the printhead physically or from the printer settings.
Most printers have an option for performing a nozzle check. Even though the settings for each printer brand can be different, you can usually find them inside the Maintenance menu. After a nozzle check, you can conduct printhead cleaning if you see any missing lines or gaps between the lines. You can do this from the printer settings.
Likewise, to clean the printhead physically, gently pull out the removable printhead as it can break if done forcefully. Then, use warm water or a liquid solution with a syringe to clean it. After cleaning it, leave it to dry out completely or use a paper towel before putting it back inside the printer.
Clean the Cartridges
Another main reason why you are having this issue is the cartridge.
It could be misaligned or installed inappropriately while putting back after removal. So you should install it properly. Likewise, you can use compressed air to clear out any dust particles stuck inside the cartridge.
If you suspect that the cartridge is damaged or unusable, you can even replace it with a new one. However, refrain from using a third-party cartridge or ink and only use a genuine and compatible one with the printer.
Run the Printer Troubleshooter
If you are using the printer on a Windows 10 system, you can run the printer troubleshooter to diagnose and fix printer-related issues.
To run the troubleshooter,
- Press the Windows + I to open the Settings app.
- Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- On the right pane, click on Additional troubleshooters.
- Next, click on the Printer and then the “Run the troubleshooter” button.
- Then follow the on-screen instructions and apply the recommended fixes.
Contact Your Printer Manufacturer
If none of the above methods work, you still have the option to contact your printer manufacturer. You can reach out to them through their website or call them on their phone support.
Likewise, you can read the manual that came with the printer while buying. The manuals are very helpful in troubleshooting common issues. Furthermore, they contain specific fixes for your printer.
Repair the Printer
If the above methods don’t work, your printer could have some hardware issues.
So check the warranty period first, and if it isn’t over yet, you can ask the manufacturer for a free repair or even replacement parts. Otherwise, as advised, you can show it to a repair technician and change the damaged parts.
On the other hand, if your printer is too old, you can consider buying a new printer.
