The most common printer problems – how to deal with them?

It takes approx. 6 minutes to read this article

The proper operation of a printer depends on many factors. Inexperienced users often find it difficult to independently identify the reasons why the printer refuses to work.

All printer problems can be divided into those directly related to printer faults and those caused by incorrect computer configuration. The most common symptoms of printer malfunctions are reduced print quality, the presence of various artifacts on printed documents (dots, stripes), low contrast, etc. Here is a list of the most common errors.

The printer does not print

It is worth starting with checking the cables and whether the device is properly connected. The cause may be a software error in both the printer and the operating system. Restarting the system or reinstalling the drivers usually helps. Sometimes it is enough to load paper into the printer, replace toner or close the open cover. The problem can also be caused by a faulty USB connector on the printer or computer.

Occasionally, the printer will still pass blank pages despite starting up. This may indicate that the print head is dry. You should then run a print head cleaning.

Low ink level

If you have received such a warning, do not ignore it. It appears early enough to give you time to replace the toner. If the ink runs out completely, it will cause damage to your printer. Such damage can be irreversible or require an extremely expensive repair.

Paper jams

If the paper in your printer jams frequently, you have most likely loaded too many sheets. You will also encounter this problem if the sheets are not aligned properly. Another cause of this error may be poor paper quality with a tendency to stick together.

The print queue does not change

It is possible that one of the documents in the queue has hung up. In this case, clear the whole (“Cancel printing”) and try again. Sometimes the reason is that the printer is paused. To change this, you need to go to the external devices menu and start it.

The printer is printing too loudly

Unusual rattling or squealing noises from the printer should worry you. It may be caused by a defective or mis-matched toner cartridge. In this case the solution is to replace it. And you should act quickly, because ignoring the problem may lead to a more serious breakdown. If replacing the toner has not helped, it is possible that your printer needs a thorough cleaning.

The printer is printing too slowly

Sometimes the machine works slower than it should. When this happens, the first thing you should try to do is change the print settings from high quality to lower quality. Another way to solve this common printer problem is to uncheck the automatic duplex setup option. The duplex settings will always require extra time for the printer to turn over each sheet.

Faulty printouts

We wrote about possible printing errors here. Their solution is usually to replace toners or other worn-out printer components, clean the device of dirt and ink residue, and choose the right print settings.

The print quality has deteriorated

Two situations are possible. The first is poor text print quality and the second is poor image quality. In both cases, start by checking your printer settings. Low quality paper or ink may also be the cause of the problem. Print deterioration is also seen when cartridges run out. For inkjet printers, you can also try cleaning the nozzles and the printer head.

All printer problems can be separated into those directly related to faults in the printer and those caused by incorrect computer configuration. The most common symptoms of printer malfunctions are reduced print quality, the presence of various artifacts on printed documents (dots, stripes), low contrast, etc. Here is a list of the most common errors.

The printer does not print

It is worth starting with checking the cables and whether the device is properly connected. The cause may be a software error in both the printer and the operating system. Restarting the system or reinstalling the drivers usually helps. Sometimes it is enough to load paper into the printer, replace toner or close the open cover. The problem can also be caused by a faulty USB connector on the printer or computer.

Occasionally, the printer will still pass blank pages despite starting up. This may indicate that the print head is dry. You should then run a print head cleaning.

Low ink level

If you have received such a warning, do not ignore it. It appears early enough to give you time to replace the toner. If the ink runs out completely, it will cause damage to your printer. Such damage can be irreversible or require an extremely expensive repair.

Paper jams

If the paper in your printer jams frequently, you have most likely loaded too many sheets. You will also encounter this problem if the sheets are not aligned properly. Another cause of this error may be poor paper quality with a tendency to stick together.

The print queue does not change

It is possible that one of the documents in the queue has hung up. In this case, clear the whole (“Cancel printing”) and try again. Sometimes the reason is that the printer is paused. To change this, you need to go to the external devices menu and start it.

The printer is printing too loudly

Unusual rattling or squealing noises from the printer should worry you. It may be caused by a defective or mis-matched toner cartridge. In this case the solution is to replace it. And you should act quickly, because ignoring the problem may lead to a more serious breakdown. If replacing the toner has not helped, it is possible that your printer needs a thorough cleaning.

The printer is printing too slowly

Sometimes the machine works slower than it should. When this happens, the first thing you should try to do is change the print settings from high quality to lower quality. Another way to solve this common printer problem is to uncheck the automatic duplex setup option. The duplex settings will always require extra time for the printer to turn over each sheet.

Faulty printouts

We wrote about possible printing errors here. Their solution is usually to replace toners or other worn-out printer components, clean the device of dirt and ink residue, and choose the right print settings.

The print quality has deteriorated

Two situations are possible. The first is poor text print quality and the second is poor image quality. In both cases, start by checking your printer settings. Low quality paper or ink may also be the cause of the problem. Print deterioration is also seen when cartridges run out. For inkjet printers, you can also try cleaning the nozzles and the printer head.

Main photo: Andrea Piacquadio/pexels.com

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