How to Clean Print Head on Brother MFC-6490CW: The Ultimate Guide

Are you experiencing faded, streaked, or blurry prints from your trusty Brother MFC-6490CW printer? This could be a sign that your print head needs a good cleaning. A clogged print head can significantly impact print quality, leading to frustrating results. This blog post will guide you through the process of cleaning the print head on your Brother MFC-6490CW, ensuring you get back to printing crisp, vibrant documents and photos.

Understanding Print Head Clogging

Before we dive into the cleaning process, let’s understand why print heads clog in the first place. The print head contains tiny nozzles that deliver ink to the paper. Over time, ink can dry out within these nozzles, causing them to become blocked. This can happen due to:

• Infrequent use: If your printer sits idle for extended periods, ink can dry out in the print head.
• Low-quality ink: Using non-genuine or refilled ink cartridges can increase the risk of clogging.
• Dust and debris: Dust particles can accumulate in the print head and obstruct the ink flow.
• Environmental factors: High humidity or extreme temperatures can also contribute to ink drying and clogging.

When to Clean Your Print Head

While regular maintenance is essential, you don’t need to clean your print head every time you see a faint streak. Here are some signs that indicate a print head cleaning is necessary:

• Faded or light prints: If your prints appear lighter than usual, it’s a sign that the ink flow is restricted.
• Streaks or lines: Horizontal streaks or lines across your prints are a clear indication of clogged nozzles.
• Missing colors: If certain colors are missing from your prints, it points to a clogged nozzle for that specific ink color.
• Smearing or smudging: If the ink smudges or smears on the paper, it could be due to a clogged print head.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Brother MFC-6490CW Print Head

Now, let’s walk through the process of cleaning your print head:
1. Turn Off Your Printer: First and foremost, turn off your Brother MFC-6490CW printer and unplug it from the power outlet. This ensures safety and prevents any accidental damage.
2. Open the Front Cover: Carefully open the front cover of your printer to access the ink cartridges.
3. Remove the Ink Cartridges: Gently lift each ink cartridge out of its slot, being careful not to touch the ink nozzles.
4. Prepare Cleaning Solution: You can use a commercial print head cleaning solution specifically designed for inkjet printers. Alternatively, you can create a DIY solution by mixing distilled water with a few drops of mild dish soap.
5. Clean the Print Head: Locate the print head assembly within the printer. Use a soft, lint-free cloth dipped in the cleaning solution to gently wipe the print head contacts and nozzles. Avoid pressing too hard, as this could damage the delicate components.
6. Rinse the Print Head: After cleaning, rinse the print head with distilled water to remove any soap residue. Use a clean cloth to dry the print head thoroughly.
7. Reinstall the Ink Cartridges: Carefully insert the ink cartridges back into their slots, ensuring they are properly aligned.
8. Power On Your Printer: Plug your printer back into the power outlet and turn it on.
9. Run a Print Head Alignment: Once your printer is powered on, access the printer’s settings and run a print head alignment. This will help ensure that the ink nozzles are properly aligned and delivering ink correctly.

Tips for Maintaining Your Print Head

Regular maintenance can help prevent clogging and prolong the life of your print head. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use Genuine Ink Cartridges: Using genuine Brother ink cartridges ensures optimal ink quality and reduces the risk of clogging.
• Print Regularly: Even if you don’t use your printer frequently, try to print at least once a week to keep the ink flowing.
• Keep Your Printer Clean: Regularly dust your printer to prevent dust particles from accumulating in the print head.
• Store Ink Cartridges Properly: When not in use, store your ink cartridges in a cool, dry place to prevent ink from drying out.
• Avoid Storing Ink Cartridges for Extended Periods: If you plan to store your ink cartridges for a long time, consider removing them from the printer and storing them separately.

Addressing Common Print Head Cleaning Issues

While the above steps are generally effective, you may encounter some issues during the cleaning process. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Nozzles Still Clogged: If cleaning the print head doesn’t resolve the issue, you might need to use a specialized print head cleaning tool or contact a professional for assistance.
• Print Head Damaged: If you suspect damage to the print head during cleaning, it’s best to contact a qualified technician for repair or replacement.

Beyond Cleaning: Troubleshooting Print Quality Issues

Sometimes, print quality issues are not solely related to a clogged print head. Here are some other factors to consider:

• Paper Quality: Using low-quality paper can affect print quality. Try using a higher-grade paper to see if it improves the results.
• Driver Settings: Check your printer driver settings for any adjustments that could be affecting the print quality, such as resolution or color settings.
• Ink Cartridge Levels: Ensure that all ink cartridges have sufficient ink levels. Low ink levels can cause faded or incomplete prints.

The Final Print: A Clean Print Head for Lasting Brilliance

By following these steps and implementing regular maintenance practices, you can keep your Brother MFC-6490CW printer running smoothly and producing high-quality prints. Remember, a clean print head is the key to vibrant, clear, and professional-looking documents and photos.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: How often should I clean my print head?
A: It’s recommended to clean your print head every 3-6 months or whenever you notice signs of clogging.
Q: Can I use rubbing alcohol to clean the print head?
A: It’s not recommended to use rubbing alcohol as it can damage the print head components. Stick to dedicated print head cleaning solutions or a mild dish soap and water mixture.
Q: What if the print head cleaning doesn‘t work?
A: If cleaning the print head doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need to contact a professional technician for further assistance or consider replacing the print head.
Q: Is it safe to clean the print head myself?
A: Yes, cleaning the print head is generally safe if you follow the instructions carefully and use appropriate cleaning materials. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable, it’s best to seek professional help.