10 Common Printer Problems Solved
Last Updated on May 13, 2020 by Christian Ralph
If you’re having trouble with your printer, there is often a simple fix which does not necessitate you bashing it with your fist and shouting “what is wrong with you?!” into its face. Here we explore 10 of the most common problems with printers and how to fix them.
1. I Can’t Print from My iPad
iPads are fantastically useful tools, capable of performing a wide range of functions from supporting games to hosting spreadsheets. Additionally, printing jobs can be completed from the iPad with the help of a wireless printer which supports AirPrint. Apple’s support page includes a comprehensive list of the printers which support AirPrint here. Install AirPrint to print a wide range of documents directly from the iPad.
2. The Web Page Won’t Print Properly
Web pages are not a uniformed size, so can present a problem during the printing process. Always check Print Preview before printing in your web browser to ensure you aren’t printing page after page of information when you only need the first page. The Print Preview will show you exactly what your printer will produce.
3. My Printer Lies about Empty Cartridges
The empty cartridge signal from many printers is just a pre-emptive warning, letting you know it’s time to order a replacement. Do not replace the cartridge until the printing stops completely or the colours start to fade.
4. Paper is Stuck in the Printer
When paper is regularly getting stuck in the printer, the culprit is often a small shred of paper trapped within the mechanism. Remove all the sheets of paper out of the tray and open all the printer’s flaps. Use a torch and a pair of tweezers to locate the offending strip of paper and carefully remove it. The printing process should be able to continue now without further obstructions.
5. My Printer Always Ejects One Blank Sheet
Many printers incorporate a feature wherein a blank sheet is ejected between jobs to help different users identify the start and end of particular printing jobs. It can be irritating however when this occurs in the printer which is used only rarely. To remedy this:
- – Open Devices and Printers in the Control Panel.
- – Right click the printer and select Printer Preferences.
- – Disable Separator Pages.
6. All My Prints Are Streaky
When your printed output becomes streaky and smudged, it is often due to blocked printing nozzles. Consult your printer’s manual to determine how to clean and clear the block nozzles to help the ink flow efficiently again, leading to better quality prints with no streaks or smudges.
7. Wi-Fi Printing is Too Slow
Like downloading a film, streaming a video or even opening a page; the speed of Wi-Fi printing is dependent upon the strength of the router and the other tasks it is supporting. To improve the speed of Wi-Fi printing, ensure your router is working effectively. Additionally, disconnect other devices hogging the Wi-Fi and make sure your printer is positioned close to the router to improve the speed of printing.
8. My Multifunction Printer No Longer Scans
If your all-in-one unit is no longer performing a quarter of its tasks, the software may be corrupted. Reinstall the printer’s software package from the disc or the manufacturer’s website to ensure you have the latest copy of the software installed on your computer/mobile device.
9. My Computer Keeps Sending Print Jobs to the Wrong Printer
Rather than sending print jobs to the printer in another office, always make sure your computer/device and designated printers are always working in tandem by assigning the correct default printer. To set a desired printer as your default printer, complete the following steps:
- – Click Start and select Devices and Printers.
- – Under Printers and Faxes, right-click the desired printer and select Set as Default Printer.
10. There’s White Lines on My Print Jobs
If there are unwanted white lines on a print job, it may be indicative of debris between the toner cartridge and drum. Remove the cartridge and drum and softly brush away any debris before refitting the consumables.
For more information about how to make the most of your printer, or find a replacement visit the Printerland.co.uk homepage or call our dedicated team on 0800 840 1992.
Images sourced via Flickr Creative Commons. Credit: Wladimir Labeikovsky
