Top 5 printer problems and how to fix them

Few things are more frustrating than a printer that refuses to cooperate just when you need it most. We also know it could potentially lead to owners getting rid of their printer - in our survey* of over 9,000 owners, nearly half of those who ditched their printer did so because of a fault that rendered them unusable.

Common complaints included issues with print quality, ink not delivering properly and paper feed issues. Others struggled with connectivity problems, whether with their wi-fi or their own devices.

To help you keep your printer running smoothly, so you don't feel compelled to fork out for a new one, we’ve compiled expert tips on troubleshooting common issues. And if yours can't be fixed and you're considering a replacement, we’ve also rounded up key advice on choosing the best new model with low running costs.

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Common printer problems revealed

1. The ink jets/print head stops working 

This was the top fault experienced by printer owners in our survey. Inkjets can become blocked as ink residue can build up over time. If you're dealing with blocked nozzles, try these fixes first:

• Run the printer's self-cleaning function if it has one. You will find this on your printer's settings, or via the printer settings on your PC - check your manual or the manufacturer website if you're not sure.
• Alternatively, clean the print head with a damp lint-free cloth moistened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol or use a cleaning kit, which will include a specialist solution. Make sure the print head is completely dry before putting it back.
• Recently replaced the cartridges? Make sure the protective seal is removed.

If the print head is built into the ink cartridges, replacing it could fix the problem. Some printers feature print heads that can't be removed, so you'd need to get the part replaced professionally.

In some cases, it's more economical to buy a new printer than to pay for a new printer head. If you're leaning towards buying a new printer, consult our printer reviews to find a model combining quality printing with low running costs.

How to prevent this printer problem

To reduce the chances of nozzles becoming blocked in the future, turn your printer off when not in use - it will automatically run a cleaning cycle when you turn it on again. Using your printer regularly can also help.

Want to know which printers our experts recommend? See our pick of the best home printers

2. Print quality deteriorating

Issues with quality can include feathering (where text and images look spikey), print misalignment, white lines and smudges.

Blocked nozzles can cause some of these problems, so try cleaning the printhead as we described above. 

Check your printer's ink levels:

If that doesn't help, check whether your ink cartridges need replacing, especially if prints or certain colours are faded or there are white lines:

• Windows: Click Start then search for 'Printers & Scanners'. Select your printer, then Manage. If it's low on ink, it will say next to 'Printer Status'.
• Mac: Click the Apple icon and go to System Preferences. Select Printers & Scanners and choose your printer. Click Options & Supplies. Ink levels are shown under the Supply Levels tab.

Check your printer's drivers are up to date:

• Windows: Click Start, Settings, Update & Security, Windows Update and then Check for Updates
• Mac: Click the Apple icon, System Preferences, Software Update

Or visit your printer manufacturer's website to check you're using the latest version.

To tackle text that doesn't line up correctly, have your printer perform an alignment - you'll see an option for this in your printer settings. Turning it off and on again after 30 seconds can also fix the problem.

Your printer paper could also be causing smudging or feathering, so confirm that you're using the right printer paper for the job. Damp, curled or wrinkled paper can affect print quality.

Looking for a budget printer with quality performance? Read our guide on the best cheap printers to buy and run

3. Wi-fi connection problems

A printer that connects to your home wi-fi network lets you queue jobs from a phone or computer without a cable. 

If you’re unable to print over wi-fi, try these three quick fixes first:

1. Make sure your printer's connected to wi-fi and that it's on the same network as the device you're trying to print from
2. Check your wi-fi signal strength. Look on your printer's control panel for 'Wireless', 'Network Settings' or something similar. There may be a wireless button somewhere on your printer if it doesn't have a control panel
3. Are your printer’s drivers up to date? Check on the manufacturer’s website - for instance Brother, Canon, Epson or HP. Most sites will make this an easy task, especially if you have your model number to hand

If these don't work,  try restarting your printer and removing it from your computer, then adding it again. This can also fix the problem if you've recently changed your router or internet provider.

To re-add a printer:

• Windows: Click Start, Settings, then Bluetooth & devices (or just Devices on Windows 10). Select Printers & scanners. Find and add your printer using the on-screen instructions.
• Mac: Select the Apple menu, go to System Settings and then select Printers & Scanners. Find and add your printer using the on-screen instructions.

You could also try Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). This feature on many routers means devices connect without the network name and password. How you do this depends on your printer - you may need to press the WPS button on your router, then hold down the wi-fi button on your printer.

Improve your wi-fi

A wi-fi extender can help strengthen your signal. These devices plug into the wall and boost your router’s reach.

Some create a separate network (usually with ‘EXT’ at the end), while others integrate into a mesh system, enhancing coverage without requiring a new network name. While mesh systems are more seamless, they tend to be pricier.

If you're struggling to stay connected at home, check in with our wi-fi extender reviews.

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4. Problems with paper

This can be caused by dusty or dirty rollers, obstructions in the paper tray, an overfilled tray or even the paper itself. 

If turning the printer off and on again doesn’t fix it, check the paper you're using. Your printer paper should all be of the same size and type, and loaded properly, with the edges of each sheet aligned. 

Make sure your paper is dry, clean and not wrinkled or curled when you add it to the paper tray.

Issues with the paper can cause paper jams, too. Remove the paper and, using a torch if you need to, check for obstructions in the mechanism inside the tray. If paper is jammed inside, pull each sheet out slowly, taking care not to damage the mechanism. You may need to open the access door at the back of the printer and pull the paper out.

Try cleaning the rollers inside the paper tray using your printer’s roller-cleaning function, if it has one. Alternatively, use a lint-free cloth or a long cotton swab dampened with water or isopropyl alcohol to wipe the rollers clean, but make sure you unplug the printer first.

Rotate the rollers as you clean them, and leave them to dry for 15 minutes before turning your printer on again.

Dealing with expensive running costs? Explore our guide on the best cheap printer ink cartridges and where to buy them.

5. Problems connecting to another device

If you're having problems connecting to a computer, tablet or phone, try this: 

1. Check the printer is on and connected to wi-fi, reconnect it if not (see above) and make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your device and printer. You may also be able to connect via a printer-specific app.
2. Try restarting the device you're trying to print from. If that doesn't fix the problem, restart the router and the printer itself.
3. Make sure your device and the printer are connected to the same network.
4. Check the printer software is up to date, and removing the driver and reinstalling it.
5. Take a look at the print queue via your PC, as old jobs waiting can prevent new jobs coming through. Cancel or delete any pending jobs.
6. Your antivirus may be blocking the connection. Disable it temporarily to rule it out.

Buying a new printer 

If your current printer really can't be fixed, it might be time to look for an alternative model. At Which?, we rigorously test the latest printers to help you pick the perfect one for you. 

We've discovered ink printers that will cost you only £2 a year in ink - these will pay for themselves in the money you save on buying replacement cartridges. Alternatively, you can inadvertently buy a model that can set you back up to £280 a year, like some we've tested.

Here's the first choice you'll need to make:

Ink tank printer

• Pros: tanks refilled with bottles of ink, which are cheaper than cartridges
• Cons: More expensive upfront than a traditional inkjet cartridge model

Ink cartridge printer

• Pros: Can offer lots of features for low up-front costs
• Cons: Cartridges will need replacing often if you print regularly

Laser printers

• Pros: Fast prints, running costs can be competitive when compared to ink cartridges
• Cons: Can't print on glossy paper - avoid if you want to print photos

If you're thinking of buying a new printer, explore our guide to the best home printers – our expert reviews are backed by rigorous lab tests.

Recycling your old printer

If you're looking to replace your printer, you can't just throw it in your rubbish bin.

The good news is that recycling your printer is fairly simple – a number of high street stores are willing to take your unwanted printer if you buy a replacement from them. Note that Robert Dyas, Argos and Currys accept second-hand printers.

Some local councils are unable to collect small electricals directly from your home. If council collection isn't an option, you can visit a recycling centre – there are thousands across the UK. For an overview of nearby donation points, enter your postcode on the Recycle your Electricals website.

For more details on getting rid of unwanted electricals, batteries and chargers, read our advice on how to recycle electrical items.

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* Survey of 9,345 Which? members and members of the general public carried out in March 2024.

Additional research: Natalie Turner