Clean Nozzles With the Operating Panel

• 1). Make sure there is paper in the printer.
  
  
• 2). On the operator panel, press the "Options" button. After a moment, "Cartridges" will appear on the display.
  
  
• 3). Press the "+" button. After a moment, "Clean" will appear on the display.
  
  
• 4). Press the "Select" button. This should clean the nozzles. Do a couple of test prints. If the problems persist, try the next technique.
  
  

Clean Nozzles With Printer Software

• 1). Make sure there is paper in the printer.
  
  
• 2). On your computer, click on the "Start" menu.
  
  
• 3). Locate and click "All Programs."
  
  
• 4). Locate "Dell Printer," then select your specific printer model.
  
  
• 5). Select "Dell Printer Solution Center." A window will appear on your desktop.
  
  
• 6). Click on the "Maintenance" tab.
  
  
• 7). Select the option to clean.
  
  
• 8). Click "Print." This should clean the nozzles. Do another couple of test prints. If the problem persists, move on to the manual technique.
  
  

Clean Nozzles Manually

• 1). Remove the printer cartridge from the printer.
  
  
• 2). Dip a Q-Tip in rubbing alcohol. Squeeze the cotton to remove excess alcohol.
  
  
• 3). Look at the cartridge. You should see dried ink built up on the cartridge head. Carefully and lightly wipe the ink buildup with the Q-Tip until you have removed as much ink as possible. Put the cartridge down and allow it to dry.
  
  
• 4). Return the cartridge to your printer. Go through Section 1 again.