Printer Printing Blank Pages

Most likely

The printer works; the problem is on the computer side

If the printer’s own page prints but jobs from your computer come out blank, the driver, the app or the file is sending an empty page.

What to do

1. Try printing the same file from a different app, such as a browser or PDF viewer.
2. Print our black and white test page from this site.
3. If that prints but your file does not, the file or app is the issue. If nothing from the computer prints, reinstall the driver.

• Test page prints but documents don’t

Most likely

Start with power, paper and error lights

If the printer will not print its own page, check for an error message or blinking light first. That usually names the problem, such as a jam, an empty tray or a missing cartridge.

What to do

1. Read the printer’s screen or look up the blinking light pattern in your manual.
2. Turn the printer off with its power button, wait a minute, and turn it on again.
3. Try the self-test again. If it still fails, contact the maker’s support.

Most likely

A seal or tape may still be on the new cartridge

New cartridges and some tank printers ship with protective tape or transport locks. Left in place, they block ink completely.

What to do

1. Remove the cartridge and check for tape over the nozzles or vent.
2. On tank printers, check that the transport valve or lock is set to the print position, as your manual describes.
3. Reinstall, run one cleaning, and print a nozzle check.

Most likely

The head is badly clogged or not getting ink

A completely blank page from an inkjet that prints its own page blank too usually means dried ink, an empty supply, or air in the ink lines.

What to do

1. Check every ink level and that cartridges click into place.
2. Run a nozzle check and one cleaning.
3. If it is still blank, leave the printer off overnight, then check again.
4. Use the cleaning advisor to avoid running too many cycles.

• Cleaning-cycle advisor

Most likely

A laser that prints blank pages

Blank pages from a laser usually mean a protective strip was left on a new toner cartridge, the cartridge or drum is not seated, or the toner is empty.

What to do

1. Open the printer, remove the toner and drum, and check for any orange or plastic seal.
2. Reseat them firmly and close all covers.
3. Print the printer’s test page. If still blank, try another toner cartridge.