Solving common printer problems

Printers can be temperamental – just like us, they have good and bad days. They test our patience every so often, typically when you’re up against it and just need it to print that one simple page of text. If you’re having a bad printer day don’t stress, the most common problems are minor and can be resolved with some quick fixes. Here we look at some of the issues we hear about when your printer is having an ‘off’ day.

1. My printer will not print

Firstly, check your printer for any visible error messages on the display which will indicate why there may be an issue with your printer, and then follow the steps given to resolve the problem. If there is no error message check that the printer cable is connected, or, if you have a wireless printer, check that Wi-Fi is enabled, and you are connected to the right network. If there has been a recent Windows or MAC update you may need to re-install the printer driver to enable printing. Finally, try making a copy if your printer has that ability. If your printer can copy then this points to the underlying issue being with your computer and not the printer.

2. Can I still print when the printer tells me it’s low on ink?

Quick answer is, “Yes, you can continue to print.” The ink level warnings and indicators are just that, a reminder which gives you the time to order or buy replacements. Your printer will still function, and low ink levels should not impact print quality. As the ink levels decrease the printer may utilise an Eco mode to print in greyscale (i.e., no colour). It’s really a case of understanding your printer and checking the print quality as this will be the true sign that you need to replace the ink cartridge.

3. I can’t print from my mobile device

You should be able to print from a phone or other mobile device even if you do not have a Wi-Fi printer if you install appropriate Apps on your device and you set up a Wi-Fi network. Check out Cloud printing services such as Cortado ThinPrint and Google Cloud Printer which work across all platforms and device types when using a non-Wi-Fi printer.

4. Why is my printer slow over Wi-Fi?

Whilst convenient, wireless printers can be slow due to network connectivity and router performance. Try to position your printer as close to the router as possible to increase Wi-Fi performance. The router should support 802.11n and offer the 5GHz bandwidth in addition to 2.4GHz. Check that the printer firmware is up to date (See our blog on firmware – Perils and Pitfalls) and use a wireless booster or a wi-fi repeater to help improve reception and therefore speed up your printing.

5. Speak to a professional and say ‘Goodbye’ to those bad printer days for good

If your printer problems persist, whether this is a result of connection issues, print quality, or simply no printing appears don’t stress. Contact the experts at Cartridge World. We will be happy to run through your printer set up with you, or provide advice and solutions that will get you back up and printing before you can say stress-free printing solutions!