You want to print, but nothing seems to happen. Maybe it’s a crucial deadline and you’re working on the final project, or you need to print that all-important boarding pass. Whatever the reason, having a printer that refuses to print is, at best, a royal pain in the neck. So here’s what to do the next time you wonder why your printer won’t print: Fortunately, most printer issues can be diagnosed and fixed with a few troubleshooting steps.
In this blog, we will walk you through some common causes and solutions for troubleshooting printer issues.
1. Check Printer Power and Connections
The first step in troubleshooting printer issues is to ensure that your printer is powered on and correctly connected. This may seem very obvious, but sometimes the answer is as simple as pushing the power button or checking that all cables are plugged in securely.
- Power: Check that your printer is on. Look for a light or display screen showing it’s on.
- Cables: If your printer is wired, then check on the connection between your computer and printer. If your printer is wireless, ensure your Wi-Fi connection is working well.
- Paper: Ensure the paper is loaded in the tray and that your printer isn’t jammed.
If all seems well physically, go to the next steps.
2. Confirm the Printer Status on Your Computer
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the printer itself, but with the way your computer communicates with it. Here are a few things to check:
- Printer Queue: Open the printer settings on your computer and check if there’s a print job stuck in the queue. Cancel any jobs that might be stuck and try printing again.
- Default Printer: Have your printer set as the default on your computer. If you have two or more, you probably selected the wrong one.
- Error Messages: If your computer or printer has an error display screen, check for error messages. Error messages often give clues as to why your printer won’t print.
3. Check Ink or Toner Levels
If your printer fails to print, it could be due to low or dried-up ink or toner. Check the levels of your printer’s ink or toner and replace them if necessary. Most printers have an alert for when the ink is running low, but it is advisable to check the ink or toner cartridges through your printer’s settings.
- Replace or Refill Cartridges: If the levels are low or empty, replace or refill the cartridges as necessary.
- Cartridge Alignment: Make sure that the cartridges are aligned and properly seated inside the printer.
4. Restart Your Printer and Computer
Sometimes, just restarting may solve a variety of issues. If “my printer is not printing,” then try restarting both your printer and your computer. It can help reset any temporary glitches or software conflicts that might be causing the problem.
- Power Cycle: Turn off your printer and computer. Wait a few seconds, then turn them back on and try printing again.
5. Update Printer Drivers and Software
Outdated or corrupted printer drivers are one of the most common causes of printing problems. You might need to update the printer drivers or reinstall them. Most printer manufacturers provide drivers on their websites.
- Download the Latest Drivers: Visit the manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers for your printer model.
- Reinstall Drivers: If updating doesn’t help, uninstall and reinstall the drivers to ensure the software is working properly.
6. Print Error or Warning
Usually, printers will print some error codes or a message that will indicate what problem is occurring. Paper jams, network connection issues, and some problems in internal parts may be common reasons. There are usually troubleshooting codes along with solutions on the printer manual and the manufacturer’s website.
- Paper Jam: Locate the access door of your printer. Remove the jammed paper inside, carefully pulling it out to prevent further damage.
- Network Problems: If you’re using a wireless printer, you must be sure your printer is on the right network.
7. Run Printer Test
Most printers have some built-in test page functionality. Use this to know whether your printer is working properly or not. Print out a test page and determine if there’s an issue with the computer or with the printer. Print a Test Page: Go to the printer settings and search for the “Print Test Page” option. If it prints successfully, then the problem may be with your computer’s print settings.