Clean Printheads via a Windows PC
Inkjet printerscreate high-quality documents and photos.
Sometimes the printheads get clogged, and image quality suffers.
You might see ink smudges or lines on the paper.
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However, cleaning printheads is a quick and simple process.
Your printer’s printer drivers offer a way to clean the printheads through the Windows Control Panel.
These are general instructions.
Check your printer documentation for cleaning options on the printer’s menu or other instructions.
Use either thePower User Menuor Start menu, depending on the Windows version.
ChooseHardware and SoundorPrinters and Other Hardware.
The option you see depends on the Windows version.
SelectDevice and PrintersorView Installed Printers or Fax Printers.
Find your printer, right-poke the printer, then chooseProperties.
Most printers should have a similar set of options.
Others have cleaning features under aToolsorMore Optionstab.
Select a cleaning option, such asClean HeadsorClean Cartridges.
If asked which printheads to unclog, selectAll Colorsif this option is available.
If you don’t see any cleaning options, consult your printer manual.
The printer may not have a self-cleaning feature.
If, after two cleanings, you still get a poor result, look for aDeep Cleaningoption.
Alternatively, read the manual cleaning instructions at the end of this article.
Look for it in theApplicationsfolder.
Manually Clean Your Printheads
Sometimes a simple manual cleaning process removes clogged ink.
Turn off and unplug the printer.
Gently remove the inkjet cartridges.
Consult the printer manual for specific information about this process.
Gently remove the printhead tray where the cartridges sit.
Consult the printer manual for specific information about this process.
If the print cartridges incorporate printheads, skip this step.
Mix a half cup of water and a half cup of isopropyl alcohol in a bowl.
Place the printhead unit into the mixture.
If the cartridges have built-in printheads, place the cartridges into the mixture one at a time.
Wait two minutes while the printhead unit or cartridges sit.
Remove the printhead unit or cartridges and dry completely with a microfiber cloth or paper towel.
Place the printhead unit or cartridges into the printer and print a test page.
If it’s printing normally, you’re done.
