Fix HP Photosmart 5510 Printer Issues
The HP Photosmart 5510 is dependable when connected and maintained correctly. Use this guide to fix common problems: offline status, driver conflicts, faded prints, streaks, jams, or missing black. Follow the steps in order to get back to clean, reliable printing.
Check the Basics
Ensure the printer is powered on, shows no error codes, and has paper loaded with guides snug. Confirm cartridges are installed correctly and have ink. If any errors appear on the panel, clear them before troubleshooting software.
Reconnect to Wi-Fi
On the touchscreen, tap Wireless > Settings > Wireless Setup Wizard. Join your 2.4 GHz network and enter the password. Avoid guest networks. Print a Wireless Network Test report to confirm the connection and note the IP address.
Repair Drivers on Windows
Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, remove old HP Photosmart entries, then reinstall the full feature software or HP Smart. Add the printer again and ensure Printer properties > Ports matches the current IP; uncheck Use Printer Offline if selected. Restart the Print Spooler (or reboot) after changes.
Fix on macOS
In System Settings > Printers & Scanners, delete the printer, click plus, and re-add it. If it doesn't appear, add by IP using the address from your network report with protocol IPP. Choose the HP driver in the Use field if available. Send a test print and scan.
Clear Stuck Jobs
Open the print queue and cancel all documents. A jammed queue can keep the printer offline. After clearing, restart the computer and printer, then try again.
Fix Faded or Streaked Prints
Run a Print Quality Diagnostic or Test Page from the printer tools. If black or colors are missing, run Clean Printhead. After cleaning, print a few pages of text to re-prime. Ensure cartridges are vented (remove any tape) and use genuine or high-quality compatible ink. Align the printhead if text looks fuzzy.
Handle Paper Jams
Power off, remove paper, and check the input tray and rear access for scraps. Gently pull any jammed paper in the direction of the feed. Reload fresh, dry paper and set guides correctly. Clean rollers with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water if you see repeated jams.
USB Test to Isolate Issues
If Wi-Fi printing fails, connect via USB to confirm the printer hardware works. If USB prints fine, focus on network/driver settings. Remove duplicate printers created during testing to avoid confusion in print dialogs.
Firmware Update
Check HP Smart or the Embedded Web Server (enter the printer's IP in a browser) for firmware updates. Applying updates can improve Wi-Fi stability and print quality management.
Power and Placement
Plug the printer directly into a wall outlet to avoid voltage dips. Place it within strong Wi-Fi range and avoid cabinets that weaken signal. If your router uses band steering, make sure the printer and computer stay on the same subnet; separate 2.4/5 GHz SSIDs during setup if discovery is flaky.\n
Keep It Stable
Reserve the printer's IP in your router to prevent offline errors. Keep the printer in sleep instead of powering off so it stays discoverable. Store paper in a dry place and print weekly to keep ink flowing. If you change the Wi-Fi password, rerun the setup wizard immediately.
Quick Checklist
- Reconnect Wi-Fi and print a network test; note the IP.
- Reinstall drivers/HP Smart; verify the correct port and clear offline mode.
- Run printhead cleaning and alignment; use quality ink and paper.
- Clear jams and clean rollers; test via USB to isolate network issues.
- Update firmware and reserve the IP for stability.
Follow these steps and your HP Photosmart 5510 should return to reliable, clean printing without recurring offline or quality problems.