Printers can be tricky sometimes, but most problems are easy to fix with a few steps. Here’s a simple guide to help with common issues.
First before you try these steps it’s best to find out what make and model printer you have, as it will help you troubleshoot. This information will typically be written somewhere on your printer.
Also, if possible, locate you printer’s user manual booklet if you still have it to hand. Don’t worry if you don’t have the user manual booklet as this website will likely have an online brochure version for your brand and model of printer: https://www.manuals.co.uk/computers-and-accessories/printers
Anyway, here are the common issues you maybe encountering with your printer:
1. Printer Won’t Print
If your printer doesn’t start when you try to print, it might not be connected properly.
Fixes:
- Check the Cables or Wi-Fi: Make sure the printer is plugged in. If it uses Wi-Fi, check that it’s on the same network as your computer.
- Turn It Off and On: Unplug the printer, wait a minute, then plug it back in and turn it on. (Yes, this fix does sometimes work :-) )
- Update the Printer Software: Go to the printer company’s website (like HP or Canon) and download the latest software for your printer.
- Make It the Main Printer: On your computer, go to the printer settings and choose your printer as the “default” one.
2. Paper Gets Stuck
Sometimes paper gets jammed inside the printer.
Fixes:
- Turn Off the Printer: Unplug it to stay safe.
- Pull Out the Paper: Open the printer’s door and gently pull the stuck paper out. Don’t rip it.
- Look for Bits of Paper or Dust: Check inside for tiny pieces of paper or dirt. Wipe with a soft, dry cloth.
- Use the Right Paper: Make sure the paper you use is the kind your printer likes. Spread the paper out before putting it in the tray. Some standard home printers for example home inkjet printers can struggle with speciality papers.
3. Prints Look Bad
If your prints are blurry, faded, or have lines, the ink or printer might need attention.
Fixes:
- Check Ink or Toner: Look at the printer’s screen or computer to see if ink or toner is low. Replace it if needed.
- Clean the Printer: Use the printer’s “clean” option in its menu to fix clogged ink. Printers typically have various choices for cleaning in their settings.
- Align the Printer: Use the “align” option in the printer’s menu to make prints clearer.
- Replace Old Ink: If the ink is very old, get a new cartridge.
4. Printing Is Too Slow
If printing takes too long, you can speed it up.
Fixes:
- Choose Fast Printing: In your computer’s print settings, pick “Draft” or “Fast” mode.
- Clear Stuck Jobs: Check your computer’s printer menu and cancel any old print jobs.
- Use a Cable: If your printer uses Wi-Fi, try connecting it with a USB cable for faster printing.
5. Printer Says “Offline”
If your computer says the printer is “offline,” it’s not talking to the computer.
Fixes:
- Check Wi-Fi: Make sure the printer and computer are on the same Wi-Fi network. Restart your Wi-Fi router if needed.
- Add the Printer Again: Remove the printer from your computer’s settings, then add it back using the printer’s software.
- Turn Off Offline Mode: On your computer, go to printer settings and make sure “Use Printer Offline” is not checked.
6. Ink or Toner Runs Out Fast
If your ink or toner disappears quickly, you can save some.
Fixes:
- Use Draft Mode: Choose “Draft” in print settings to use less ink.
- Check for Leaks: Look at the ink cartridge for spills. If it’s leaking, replace it and clean with a dry cloth.
- Buy the Right Ink: Use ink or toner made by your printer’s company (like HP or Epson) to avoid problems, making sure you get the right ink for the model of your printer.
- Print Less Often: Try to print several pages at once to save ink.
Final Tips
Most printer problems can be fixed with these steps. Keep your printer clean and use the correct ink for your printer.
If any of these different steps still didn’t work, check the printer’s user manual booklet or call ourselves at Direct Computers.
