Run this a few times and see if that fixes the issue. After that, you're given the option of running a print head clean.

It usually consists of first printing a nozzle test pattern, but if your cartridges are completely blocked this will likely result in a blank page. It's often possible to do this directly from the printer's onscreen menu, or by pressing and holding certain buttons, but you'll need to Google your model number and 'print head cleaning' to find these details. Then find the maintenance or troubleshooting tab and look for head cleaning or clean print heads. You should get a menu, you're looking for Settings, Utility, Toolbox or Properties. Right-click on the printer icon in the Windows notification area (bottom-right of your screen). You can do this in your printer's software but the process will be different depending on the manufacturer. Your first port of call when trying to fix a dried out printer cartridge is to use your printer's head cleaning function. There are a few ways you can try and resurrect the cartridge, however.

If you're not careful, air can get in the cartridge, which speeds up the drying process. Yes, printer cartridges have expiration dates, after which they can cease to function.įinally, if you've ever refilled a cartridge, rather than buying completely new ones, this can introduce problems of its own. The other reason could be the cartridges have expired. It's important to use your printer semi-regularly to try and avoid this. This often happens if you've not used your printer for a long time, as the stationary ink has time to dry out in the nozzle. Best printer 2023: The best inkjet and laser printers to buy

Inkjet test pattern