HP printers are generally very reliable even in the most demanding environments, but they occasionally have issues. And as we all know, printers usually fail to function when least expected. It’s crucial for an IT support specialist to understand how to resolve the most typical issues with these printers. When using an HP printer, there are “top 10 HP problems” that you should be aware of, and the solutions for each of them. Here are the some steps to Fix Common HP Printer Problems.

Steps to Fix Common HP Printer Problems

1. paper jams

Paper jams are one of the most common issues with printers of all brands. There are a variety of reasons why a printer might jam, including dirty paper, the wrong kind of paper being used, or worn-out rollers in the printer that feed the paper through its path. While regularly cleaning the printer and using the right paper are simple fixes, replacing the rollers on an HP printer can be challenging depending on the model. The rollers are easily accessible on some HP printer models, but you have to disassemble some others in order to access the rollers. Regardless of the cause, always pull the paper in the direction of the paper path to avoid damaging it by doing so

Paper jams can happen more often with some HP printers than others. In my experience, paper jam issues are a given with any printer that holds the paper vertically before pulling it through the printer. Although many organizations use these models on individual systems despite the fact that they are not intended for heavy use, they should be aware of this flaw. Additionally, some users report issues with the paper pickup rollers on the more recent HP 4000 series printers, which is strange given that the pickup rollers on the older 4000 and 5000 series HP printers are thought to be extremely reliable and to work without any issues.

2. If the Prints of the Pages are Faded

The faded print is a  very common error , the reason might be one of two conditions : The print density is set too low, the printer’s toner is running low. A printer self-test (typically a separate button on the printer) will demonstrate the current settings for the final two options. If Economode is turned on and users are complaining that the print is too light, turn it off or increase the print density. If the toner is low, you can solve the issue until you can replace the cartridge by simply taking out the cartridge and shaking it to redistribute the toner more evenly.

3. Ghosting

Ghosting occurs when an image prints correctly, but another, much lighter copy of the image also appears somewhere else. This might be the result of a problem with the outlet that powers the printer. If the issue persists after plugging in a different printer, check the power outlet. When consumable printer components, such as the drum or imaging kit, are on the verge of failure, ghosting may also result. A printer’s consumable components are each rated for a specific number of pages. To stop ghosting, you’ll need to replace those components once a printer reaches that magic number.

4. Toner smears or does not stay on the paper

There could be a few issues if writing and illustrations lift from the page when a hand is passed over them. First, the fuser assembly could be broken or past its prime. The fuser assembly needs to be changed as a fix. Because the fuser is a consumable printer component and not worth the time or effort to repair, it is generally not advised to repair a fuser assembly. Second, a faulty toner cartridge that leaks too much toner at once is possible. Toner cartridge replacement is the answer for a black-and-white laser printer. Replace only the cartridge in a color laser printer that is malfunctioning. Third, there may have been some toner spillage in the printer. Then you’ll require 

5. Printer is displaying a 50.4 error message

Some of the more recent HP LaserJet printers display a 50.4 error message, which denotes a power supply issue. If the printer is plugged into a UPS, unplug it from the UPS or unplug the printer from the power strip and plug it straight into a wall outlet. The surges of power needed by a laser printer to maintain the fuser assembly warm should never be plugged into a UPS as the UPS could be harmed. If that doesn’t work, check to see if the printer’s parts are all properly seated.

6. Can’t find a driver for a particular operating system

Your current printers will require new drivers to be loaded as new operating systems are released. Not every printer has an OS-compatible driver. It is best in these situations to check the printer manual to learn which printers the drivers will simulate. Even though this emulation won’t enable the printer’s full functionality, basic printing will still be possible. For instance, the majority of HP printers will print when the HP LaserJet II driver is installed, but certain features, like duplexing, will not.

7.Printer is not printing from the expected paper tray

To fix this particular mistake, look twice. Check the printer first, then the printing computer. If the application is configured to print to the incorrect paper tray, you can fix it there by selecting Printer Properties, then looking for the Tray Selection source. Verify that the paper sizes listed in the printer’s control panel correspond to those found in the paper trays. 

8. The pad might be damaged

It is probably time to replace the pad that separates the paper because it is damaged . Without having to send the printer out for repair, you can order and install a new pad. The possibility of the paper being damp due to humidity exists as well. Before inserting the paper into the printer, make sure it is “fanned” and properly stored.

9. Printer is displaying a 79 error

An issue with the network print server that supports the printer may cause a 79 error. When troubleshooting a 79 error, check to see if any pending jobs are present by opening the Printer folder from the Start menu on the Print server. A 79 error could also mean that a RAM module or MIO card, two printer add-on components, have failed. To identify which module might be at fault, every add-on should be taken off the printer before being added back one at a time.

10. Trouble printing onto envelopes

For laser printers, envelopes can lead to a variety of issues. Select envelopes that are roughly the same weight and thickness as 20-lb paper. Additionally, check to see if the adhesive on the envelope can withstand the heat that the fuser emits in order to maintain the printing on the page. If you don’t, the printer will print the envelopes already sealed. Envelopes that are wrinkled after printing may be too stiff for the paper path. Instead, let them leave through the printer’s back door, which you should open.

Related Blog: Fix HP Printer Light Blinking Issue

One of the most dependable brands of printers in the market is HP. However, they are prone to failure or damages just like any other piece of IT machinery. However, it appears that the newer printers are less resilient to abuse than the older models were. Expect more troubleshooting calls involving the issues I’ve just described if you work with more recent HP printer models in a setting where paper is used frequently. No matter how old your HP printer is, this guide to typical printing issues will help you quickly identify and Fix Common HP Printer Problems.