If you have printed a document and are unsatisfied with the print quality, you may need to perform a cleaning cycle in order to improve the quality of your print.
Please attempt the following procedures in order to do so. Please keep in mind that this process may vary by Printer, and that you may also consult your printer’s user manual for instructions on performing a cleaning cycle.
Right click on the printer icon on your desktop.
If you do not have an icon on your desktop, you can locate your printer in your Printers and Faxes folder or in your Control Panel
Select Printing Preferences.
Click on the Maintenance tab.
Click on the Cleaning button.
You may click ok to dismiss the warning that appears on the screen.
After the cleaning is finished, click on the Nozzle Check button.
Ensure there is paper in your printer and click ok.
Again, you may click ok to dismiss the warning that appears.
If the Nozzle Check Pattern looks to be satisfactory, you may click ok. Or you may also perform another cleaning cycle if you are not satisfied with your test page.
Please be aware that cleaning your printhead does consume ink; and therefore, should only be completed when necessary.
If the Nozzle Check Pattern is satisfactory, you may return to the document you wish to print and resume printing.
If you are still not satisfied with the print after you perform a cleaning cycle, the next step is to try blotting the cartridge. This will ensure that the printhead nozzles are not clogged with dry ink.
You will want to use a lint free towel such as a coffee filter. Fold the filter in half.
We also suggest using a paper towel or other absorbent material to place under the lint free cloth to protect your surface from the ink as it may stain your underlying surface.
Remove your cartridge from the printer.
Locate the printhead. This is on the bottom of the cartridge. Do not touch the printhead or bottom of your cartridge as this can cause damage.
Hold the cartridge with the printhead facing downward.
Simply press the printhead of the cartridge onto the coffee filter and hold for 3 seconds.
A black ink blot should appear on the lint free cloth.
If a good blot does appear on the cloth, reinstall your cartridge and attempt your print again.
If your cartridge does not provide a good blot, it is possible that the ink has all been consumed; and you should replace your cartridge.
However, if you are just installing the cartridge for the first time or have recently installed the cartridge and are experiencing this problem, you should return your cartridge to the place of purchase.