If the ink light is flashing or displayed, you need to replace the ink cartridge that’s low before you clean the printer nozzles. Any error messages displayed on the screen need to be resolved before you can clean the printer nozzles.
Waxy or parchment paper will affect the quality of the test pattern.
Depending on your version of Windows or Macintosh, the printer properties menu could be called something like “Printer” or “Setup” or “Options. ” You may need to select a tab that says “Maintenance,” “Utility,” or “Options” in order to find the printer properties.
On a Macintosh, click the “Confirmation” button to print out a check pattern. Print a test pattern before you run a cleaning cycle to make sure the problem is the nozzles.
Depending on your version of Windows or Macintosh, the utility tab could be called “Printer Preferences,” “Maintenance,” or “Utility. ”
The printer’s power button will start to flash to signal the beginning of the cleaning cycle.
A dialog box may appear when the printer has finished its cleaning cycle that includes the option for you to print out a test pattern. If it doesn’t, click on the option to print one out from the utility menu.
You can clean the nozzles up to 6 times.
Unplug the cable from the back of the printer so you can replace it easily later on.
Because you cut off power while the printer was working, the print head will move freely on its rails. If you can’t move the print head, don’t force it. Plug in the printer, print out another sheet of paper, and cut off the power again to free it.
Use a pair of scissors to cut the strips of blotting paper. You can find blotting paper at department stores, craft stores, office supply stores, and online. Change your ink cartridges as soon as you get a low ink warning to keep clogs from forming.
Look for 1 inch (2. 5 cm) silicone tubes at hobby shops, remote-controlled airplane shops, and online. You can find clean syringes at pharmacies, department stores, and online.
There are tubes for each of the ink cartridges, so you’ll need to flush each of them one by one. The silicone hose will fit snugly over the tube on the print head. Do not use rubbing alcohol or another cleaning solution which may contain water that will damage the print head.
Don’t try to force the alcohol through a clog or you could damage the nozzle.
You don’t need to flush the nozzles more than once to remove any buildup.
If there are still gaps or blurriness, the nozzles may be damaged and you may need to replace the entire print head.
