Essential Information
- The most frequent cause of the “Out of Paper” error is a paper jam.
- Make sure the paper in the tray matches the settings on your printer.
- If you’re using a different paper type or size than what’s selected, the printer might not be able to feed it properly.
Frustrated with your HP Envy printer constantly yelling “Out of Paper” even though you know there’s a full stack waiting? This common issue can be caused by a variety of factors, but don’t worry, we’re here to help you troubleshoot and solve it.
This blog post will walk you through the most common reasons why your HP Envy printer keeps displaying the “Out of Paper” error, providing clear steps to fix it. We’ll also discuss preventative measures to avoid this annoying problem in the future. So, grab your printer manual and let’s get started!
The Paper Jam: A Common Culprit
The most frequent cause of the “Out of Paper” error is a paper jam. Paper jams can occur when paper gets stuck in the printer’s paper path, preventing the rollers from feeding new sheets. Here’s how to check for and resolve a paper jam:
- Open the printer: Most HP Envy printers have a front-facing door that opens to reveal the paper path.
- Look for obstructions: Carefully inspect the paper path for any crumpled, torn, or jammed paper.
- Remove the jammed paper: Gently pull the jammed paper out, being careful not to tear it further.
- Close the door: Once all jammed paper is removed, close the printer door and try printing again.
The Paper Tray: A Possible Problem
If no paper jam is found, the issue might be with the paper tray itself. Here’s what to check:
- Paper type and size: Make sure the paper in the tray matches the settings on your printer. If you’re using a different paper type or size than what’s selected, the printer might not be able to feed it properly.
- Paper alignment: Ensure the paper is properly aligned in the tray and that no sheets are sticking out. Misaligned paper can cause feeding issues.
- Paper weight: The paper weight should be within the printer’s specifications. Too thick or too thin paper can cause problems.
- Paper load: Check if the paper stack is too full or too low. Excessive paper can cause jams, while too little paper might trigger the “Out of Paper” message.
The Printer Settings: A Possible Source of Error
Sometimes, the problem lies with the printer settings themselves. Make sure the following settings are correct:
- Paper source: Double-check that the printer is set to use the correct paper tray.
- Paper type: Ensure the paper type setting matches the actual paper you’re using.
- Paper size: Confirm that the paper size setting is correct.
- Print quality: High-quality print settings can sometimes cause paper feeding issues. Try lowering the print quality to see if that resolves the problem.
The Printer Drivers: A Potential Issue
Outdated or corrupted printer drivers can also cause the “Out of Paper” error. Here’s how to update or reinstall your printer drivers:
- Update drivers: Visit the HP website and download the latest drivers for your printer model. Install the new drivers and restart your computer.
- Reinstall drivers: If updating the drivers doesn’t work, try reinstalling them. Go to your computer’s device manager, locate your printer, and uninstall it. Then, download and install the latest drivers from the HP website.
The Printer Mechanism: A More Serious Problem
If you’ve checked all the above and the “Out of Paper” error persists, the problem might be with the printer’s internal mechanism. This could involve issues with the paper rollers, pick-up rollers, or other internal components. In such cases, you might need to:
- Contact HP support: Reach out to HP customer support for assistance. They might be able to provide troubleshooting steps or suggest a repair option.
- Take it to a repair shop: If the printer is still under warranty, take it to an authorized HP repair center. If it’s out of warranty, you can consider taking it to a local computer repair shop for diagnosis and repair.
Preventing Future Paper Jams and “Out of Paper” Errors
To avoid the frustration of dealing with the “Out of Paper” error again, here are some preventive measures:
- Use high-quality paper: Choose paper that’s specifically designed for your printer and avoid using paper that’s too thick, thin, or textured.
- Don’t overload the paper tray: Keep the paper stack within the recommended capacity of the tray.
- Keep the paper path clean: Regularly clean the paper path with a soft cloth to remove dust and debris.
- Check for paper jams regularly: If you notice any signs of a paper jam, address it immediately to prevent further damage.
- Maintain your printer: Regularly clean and maintain your printer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The Takeaway: Your HP Envy Printer Deserves Your Attention
While the “Out of Paper” error can be frustrating, it’s often a simple issue to resolve. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly identify and fix the problem, ensuring your HP Envy printer continues to perform flawlessly. Remember, regular maintenance and preventative measures can go a long way in preventing future issues.
What You Need to Know
Q: My HP Envy printer says “Out of Paper” but there’s paper in the tray. What should I do?
A: First, check for a paper jam. If there’s no jam, make sure the paper type and size settings on your printer match the paper in the tray. Also, ensure the paper is properly aligned in the tray and that the paper weight is within the printer’s specifications.
Q: My HP Envy printer is making a strange noise when I try to print. Could this be related to the “Out of Paper” error?
A: Yes, a strange noise might indicate a paper jam or a problem with the paper feeding mechanism. Try opening the printer and checking for any obstructions. If you can’t find a jam, consider contacting HP support for assistance.
Q: I’ve tried everything and my HP Envy printer still says “Out of Paper”. What should I do?
A: If you’ve exhausted all other troubleshooting steps, the problem might be with the printer’s internal mechanism. Contact HP support or take your printer to a repair shop for diagnosis and repair.
Q: Can I prevent paper jams from happening in the future?
A: Yes! Using high-quality paper, keeping the paper path clean, and avoiding overloading the paper tray are all great ways to prevent paper jams. Regular printer maintenance can also help.
Q: Why does my HP Envy printer show “Out of Paper” when I’m printing a photo?
A: Photo paper is typically thicker than standard paper, so it might require a different paper type setting on your printer. Ensure the paper type setting matches the photo paper you’re using.