How to Fix HP Printer Printing Dark Background Pages?

HP printers are known for delivering sharp and vibrant prints. However, sometimes users face an issue where the printer starts printing dark background pages, making documents difficult to read and wasting ink. This problem can occur due to incorrect print settings, driver issues, cartridge problems, or outdated firmware.

Common Causes of HP Printer Printing Dark Background Pages

Before fixing the issue, it’s important to understand the possible reasons:

Incorrect print settings (High ink density or photo mode enabled)
Corrupted or outdated printer drivers
Low or faulty ink cartridges
Printhead alignment issues
Firmware not updated
Paper type settings mismatch
Software conflicts after Windows or macOS updates

Identifying the root cause will help you apply the correct solution quickly.

Check HP Printer Print Settings

One of the most common reasons for dark background printing is incorrect print configuration.

Steps to Fix Print Settings:

Open the document you want to print.
Click on File > Print.
Select your HP printer.
Go to Printer Properties or Preferences.
Ensure:
- Paper type is set correctly (Plain Paper for documents)
- Print Quality is set to Normal or Draft
- Grayscale printing is enabled (if printing black & white documents)
- Background graphics option is disabled

Save the settings and print a test page to check if the issue is resolved.

Update HP Printer Driver

Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause printing issues like dark background pages.

You can update your printer driver by:

Visiting the official HP support portal
Searching for your printer model
Downloading the latest driver version compatible with your operating system
Installing the updated driver

After installation, restart your computer and printer, then try printing again.

Keeping drivers updated ensures compatibility with recent Windows and macOS updates.

Reinstall HP Printer Software

If updating doesn’t solve the issue, reinstalling the printer software may help.

Steps to Reinstall HP Printer Software:

Open Control Panel.
Go to Programs and Features.
Uninstall your HP printer software.
Restart your system.
Download the latest HP printer setup package.
Install and follow on-screen instructions.
Connect your printer when prompted.

This removes corrupted configuration files that may be causing dark background printing.

Check and Replace Ink Cartridges

Faulty or leaking cartridges can cause ink spreading or dark page backgrounds.

What to Do:

Open the printer access door.
Remove cartridges carefully.
Check for leakage or excessive ink buildup.
Clean cartridge contacts with a lint-free cloth.
Replace low or damaged cartridges.
Run printhead cleaning from printer settings.

Using genuine HP cartridges ensures proper ink flow and better print quality.

Run Printhead Cleaning and Alignment

Clogged or misaligned printheads can cause uneven ink distribution.

To Clean Printhead:

Open Printer Settings.
Select Tools or Maintenance.
Choose Printhead Cleaning.
Run the cleaning cycle.
Print a test page.

If needed, perform printhead alignment after cleaning for optimal results.

Update HP Printer Firmware

Outdated firmware can create compatibility and printing problems.

Firmware updates improve printer performance, fix bugs, and enhance print accuracy.

You can update firmware by:

Accessing HP Smart app
Checking for updates in printer settings
Installing available updates
Restarting the printer

Regular firmware updates prevent unexpected printing errors.

HP Printer Login and Account Setup

If you use HP Smart or cloud printing features, ensure your HP account is properly configured.

How to Login or Sign Up:

Open HP Smart app.
Click Sign In.
Enter your HP account credentials.
If new user, select Create Account.
Verify email and complete registration.

A properly linked account helps manage printer settings, updates, and troubleshooting remotely.

Download and Install HP Smart App

HP Smart simplifies printer management and troubleshooting.

Steps to Download and Install:

Visit your device’s app store or HP support page.
Download HP Smart.
Install the application.
Add your printer.
Follow setup instructions.

HP Smart allows you to monitor ink levels, clean printheads, align cartridges, and adjust print settings easily.

Troubleshooting HP Printer Not Working Properly

If your HP printer continues printing dark background pages, try these additional troubleshooting steps:

Restart printer and computer
Reset printer to factory settings
Check paper quality
Test with different document format (PDF, Word, Image)
Print from another device to isolate the issue
Ensure no background watermark is enabled in the document

If the issue appears only with specific files, the document formatting may be the cause.

Contact HP Customer Support

If none of the above solutions fix the problem, contact HP customer support for assistance.

Support services include:

Remote troubleshooting
Software guidance
Warranty repair services
Hardware diagnostics
Replacement support (if required)

Keep your printer model number and purchase details ready when contacting support.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

To avoid dark background printing in the future:

Print regularly to prevent ink drying
Use recommended paper type
Keep printer firmware updated
Clean printer interior periodically
Avoid third-party low-quality cartridges
Perform printhead cleaning monthly

Proper maintenance ensures consistent high-quality prints and extends printer lifespan.

Conclusion

The issue of HP printer printing dark background pages can be caused by incorrect print settings, outdated drivers, clogged printheads, or firmware issues. By carefully adjusting printer preferences, updating drivers, reinstalling software, cleaning cartridges, and maintaining your printer regularly, you can resolve the issue effectively.