The HP DeskJet 2955 is a compact wireless all-in-one inkjet. Its problems fall into a few clear groups, each with a first check:
- Not printing: check power, paper, and the print queue.
- Offline status: check the Wi-Fi or USB link.
- Wi-Fi failure: confirm the network, then repeat setup.
- Blank or faded pages: check ink and print a quality report.
- Paper jams: clear the paper path and reload paper.
Naming the exact symptom saves time. See common inkjet printer problems and their causes for a wider view.
HP DeskJet 2955 Not Printing
Start with the simple things:
- Confirm the printer is on and the power cord is snug.
- Check for paper in the 60-sheet input tray.
- Read the screen for error messages and cartridge alerts.
- Make sure your computer picked the right printer.
- Open the print queue and look for a paused or stuck job.
Then print a test page from the HP app. If it prints, the printer works and the issue sits on the computer side. If it does not, look at ink, paper, or the connection. Our list of common home printer problems can help you narrow it down.
Wi-Fi and Connectivity Problems on the HP DeskJet 2955
Wi-Fi trouble is a top complaint. The 2955 supports dual-band Wi-Fi, which means it can use both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. 2.4 GHz reaches farther but runs slower. 5 GHz runs faster but covers less space.
Make sure your phone or computer is on the same network as the printer. Check the router, and ask whether the printer lost its network after a router swap. If a restart does not help, repeat wireless setup. Our guide on why a printer won’t connect to Wi-Fi covers the usual causes.
HP DeskJet 2955 Ink and Print Quality Issues
Print quality problems show up as faded text, streaks, missing colors, or blank pages. The 2955 uses HP 68 cartridges with the printhead built in, so replacing a cartridge can clear a clog, but cleaning uses ink. Common causes are low ink, clogged nozzles, a wrong paper type in settings, or paper unsuited to inkjet. Use the print-quality report and cleaning tool before you buy anything new. See why inkjet prints have lines and how an inkjet printhead works.
Paper Jams and Feeding Errors on the HP DeskJet 2955
Look for visible blockages and small torn pieces, following HP’s instructions before you reach into the printer. Load paper flat and keep the stack under the limit. The 2955 holds 60 sheets in the input tray and 25 in the output tray. Damp, curled, or wrong-size paper often causes misfeeds.
Read how to store printer paper at home to keep sheets dry.
How to Fix HP DeskJet 2955 Problems Step by Step
Work through these fixes in order, from simple checks to software and hardware tests. Test the printer after each change so you know which fix worked. Do not factory reset the printer or remove drivers early.
Step 1: Check Power, Paper, and Printer Status
- Make sure the power cord is secure at the printer and the wall.
- Switch the printer on and wait for it to finish starting.
- Look for blinking lights, error messages, jams, or cartridge warnings.
- Reload plain letter size paper (8.5 x 11 inches) and slide the guides in snugly.
- Check that the input tray and output tray sit in the right position.
Step 2: Restart the Printer and Computer
- Turn the printer off using its power button.
- Wait about 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
- Restart your computer, phone, or tablet.
- Retry a small print job.
If the printer still does not respond, check its status on screen. Then move on to the next steps.
Clear the Print Queue as Step 3
A stuck job can block every job behind it. Clearing the print queue often fixes a printer that seems frozen.
On Windows
- Open Settings, then Bluetooth and devices, then Printers and scanners.
- Select the HP DeskJet 2955 and open the print queue.
- Cancel all stuck jobs.
- In the Printer menu, make sure “Pause Printing” and “Use Printer Offline” are not checked.
On macOS
- Open System Settings and click Printers and Scanners.
- Open the printer’s queue and delete stuck jobs.
- Press Resume if the queue shows as paused.
Send a one-page test document afterward. If it prints, the queue was the problem.
Step 4: Update or Reinstall the Printer Software
Get drivers only from the official HP support site at support.hp.com, and match your Windows or macOS version. Update first. Reinstall only if updates and connection checks fail. Our guide on how to install printer drivers correctly walks through a clean install, and our 123.hp.com setup guide helps you start fresh.
Run Printer Diagnostics as Step 5
Use the HP app or your operating system’s built-in troubleshooter. Print a test or diagnostic page where the printer supports it. That page shows whether basic printing works.
Write down any error code or light pattern before you call support. Our first-time printer setup guide also helps confirm nothing was missed.
HP DeskJet 2955 Problems and Solutions at a Glance
Use this table to spot the likely cause without reading the full guide. The fixes follow a practical order: basic checks first, then software, connection, or hardware.
| Printer problem | Possible cause | Recommended first fix |
|---|---|---|
| Printer not printing | Stuck queue or wrong printer selected | Clear the queue and check printer status |
| Printer offline | Communication or network issue | Verify the connection and online status |
| Wi-Fi not connecting | Incorrect network setup | Check wireless settings and repeat setup if needed |
| Blank pages | Ink delivery or cartridge issue | Check ink status and run supported diagnostics |
| Faded or streaky prints | Low ink, clogged nozzles, or paper settings | Inspect ink status and use print-quality tools |
| Paper jam | Blocked paper path or misfed paper | Remove accessible paper following HP instructions |
| Printer not detected | Driver or connection problem | Check USB or Wi-Fi connectivity and compatible software |
| Slow printing | Connection, document, or settings issue | Test a simple document and review print settings |
How to Fix HP DeskJet 2955 Wi-Fi and Connection Problems
Wireless setup, router settings, and device support all affect printing. Treat two cases separately. In one, the printer will not join the network. In the other, it joins but will not print.
Always follow HP’s official, model-specific setup steps. Not every DeskJet model has the same wireless controls. Our general guide on how to connect a printer to Wi-Fi gives the big picture.
HP DeskJet 2955 Not Connecting to Wi-Fi
If the printer will not join your network, check the basics first. Then repeat setup with the HP app.
Quick Wi-Fi Checks
- Confirm your router is on and other devices get online.
- Retype the network password. It is case-sensitive.
- Move the printer closer, then restart the router and printer.
Repeat Wireless Setup
Add the printer again in the HP app. If setup fails, split a shared 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz network name for a moment. Our guide to reconnecting an offline printer helps if it drops later.
Why the HP DeskJet 2955 Is Not Showing Up on a Computer
Confirm the printer and computer share a link, either a USB cable or the same Wi-Fi network. Open your printer list and remove duplicate or old 2955 entries. Then add the printer again and install HP’s software if it still does not appear.
For more help, read why a printer is not showing on a computer and how to connect a printer to a laptop.
HP DeskJet 2955 Printing From a Phone or Tablet
The 2955 supports the HP app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, and the HP Print Service Plugin for Android. Make sure your phone has a supported connection and a current app version. Check app permissions, pick the right printer, then try a small file first.
Our guides on how to connect a printer to a smartphone and how to print from a phone at home cover both iPhone and Android.
How to Resolve HP DeskJet 2955 Ink and Print Quality Problems
First, decide whether you have an ink supply problem (empty or unseated cartridge) or a nozzle problem (ink is there but cannot flow out cleanly). Follow HP’s maintenance steps for your cartridge model. Learn the basics in how inkjet printers work.
HP DeskJet 2955 Printing Blank Pages
Check these things in order:
- Make sure each cartridge is fully seated.
- Peel off any protective tape on a new cartridge.
- Check ink levels in the HP app.
- Print a diagnostic page to see if ink reaches the paper.
- Run HP’s cleaning cycle if the page shows gaps.
Our guide on why an inkjet printer prints blank pages goes deeper. If you used an older HP model, our HP DeskJet 2855e blank pages fix uses a similar method.
Faded Text or Lines on the HP DeskJet 2955
Faded text often means low ink, a clogged nozzle, or the wrong paper setting. Check ink levels and set the right paper type and quality. Run a print-quality report and one cleaning cycle if needed. Avoid repeated cleaning, because each cycle uses ink.
DPI means dots per inch, or how many ink dots fit in one inch. The 2955 lists up to 1200 x 1200 DPI for black. Higher DPI adds detail but will not fix a clogged nozzle. See printer resolution explained.
HP DeskJet 2955 Color Printing Problems
If colors look wrong or are missing, check the tri-color cartridge first. Then confirm that color printing is on in the print dialog. Grayscale or draft modes can change the output.
Print a diagnostic page to see which colors are missing. The 2955 uses one tri-color cartridge, so if one color runs out, you replace the whole cartridge.
That design affects cost. See why inkjet printers use so much ink.
When Should You Replace an Ink Cartridge?
Replace a cartridge when the diagnostic page and your prints both show a real problem. An ink warning alone is not always enough, as explained in why a printer says ink is empty when it’s not.
The 2955 uses HP 68 series cartridges, not HP 67 or HP 240. Confirm with our guide on how to check if a cartridge is compatible. A new cartridge will not fix software, settings, or other hardware faults, so check ink levels correctly first.
HP DeskJet 2955 Paper Jam, Paper Feed, and Printing Speed Issues
Paper quality, tray loading, print settings, and connection speed all affect jams, empty feeds, double feeds, and slow jobs. Switch the printer off and follow HP’s model-specific steps before you open internal areas.
How to Clear an HP DeskJet 2955 Paper Jam
- Cancel the print job from your computer or the printer.
- Turn the printer off and unplug it if HP’s steps tell you to.
- Gently pull out any jammed paper in the direction it travels.
- Check the input tray and rear area for torn bits.
- Reload fresh paper and print a test page.
Never use force. If the sheet will not move, stop and check HP’s support page. Choosing the right sheets also helps, so see what paper works best with inkjet printers.
HP DeskJet 2955 Not Picking Up Paper
If the printer will not grab paper, first square up the stack. Remove curled, damp, or damaged sheets. Do not overfill the tray.
Test with plain letter paper first. The 2955 handles up to legal (8.5 x 14 inches). If feed problems continue, check the rollers using HP’s official maintenance steps.
HP DeskJet 2955 Printing Too Slowly
Speed is measured in PPM, or pages per minute. HP lists the 2955 at up to 7.5 PPM black and 5.5 PPM color. Real speeds are lower, especially for photos and heavy PDFs. Print a simple text page, then a complex PDF. If only the complex file is slow, the file is the cause.
Read why inkjet printing is so slow and what pages per minute means for more.
What Do HP DeskJet 2955 Error Lights and Messages Mean?
Blinking lights, computer pop-ups, and screen messages all point to a fault. Write down the exact message instead of guessing. Then confirm light patterns for your model at support.hp.com.
Blinking Power or Attention Lights
Look at the printer screen and your computer for extra error details. Check for paper, cartridge, and other flagged issues before you restart. The meaning depends on the exact pattern.
If you restart, leave the printer off for a full minute. If the light returns, record the pattern and contact HP support.
Cartridge Error or Ink Warning
Confirm the cartridge is the right HP 68 type, seated well, and recognized. Check for protective tape or dirty contacts, following HP’s steps. An ink warning does not always mean replace it now. Staples also notes this printer blocks cartridges with non-HP chips. If you use third-party ink, read why a printer rejects new cartridges and original vs compatible printer cartridges.
Printer Offline or Communication Error
An offline status means your computer cannot talk to the printer. Check the print queue, device status, and network link. Then restart the printer and router.
Only reinstall or reconfigure after those basic checks fail. For ongoing drops, read why a printer keeps going offline.
HP DeskJet 2955 Compatibility, Software, and Setup Issues
Install software that matches your operating system. Most setup trouble comes from the wrong driver, an old app, or a mismatched connection.
Driver Issues on Windows for the HP DeskJet 2955
If Windows cannot find the printer, check Printers and scanners and pick the correct device. Install the right software from HP’s site and run Windows Update. Look for driver conflicts if the problem stays. A clean reinstall is the last step.
HP DeskJet 2955 Setup on macOS
Confirm your macOS version works with the printer. The 2955 supports AirPrint, so you may not need a separate driver for basic printing. If the setup looks wrong in Printers and Scanners, remove the printer and add it again. Our guide to managing multiple devices with one printer helps in shared homes.
USB vs. Wireless Printing
USB is steady and simple. Wireless is more convenient but depends on your router. The 2955 offers both. If wireless fails, plug in USB as a diagnostic step. If USB works, the network is the issue. Changing the connection may require updating your computer’s printer settings.
HP DeskJet 2955 Troubleshooting Comparison Table
Different symptoms can share the same cause. Use this table to pick your next step based on what happens during a test print. That beats swapping ink or reinstalling software right away.
| Symptom | Most useful diagnostic check | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Computer cannot find printer | Device and connection status | Verify USB or Wi-Fi setup and software |
| Printer receives jobs but does not print | Queue and error status | Clear stalled jobs and check alerts |
| Test page prints but documents do not | Application and document settings | Test another app or file |
| Test page has missing colors | Cartridge and print-quality diagnostics | Follow recommended maintenance |
| Paper repeatedly misfeeds | Paper condition and tray loading | Reload suitable paper and inspect accessible areas |
| Printing stops intermittently | Connection stability and error history | Test the connection and review alerts |
How Much Does It Cost to Fix HP DeskJet 2955 Problems?
Costs fall into three groups: free fixes, supplies, and paid service. Your total depends on the fault, cartridge prices, local repair rates, and warranty status. The 2955 lists at about $89.99, and Staples has offered it near $50 to $60. Prices change, so check current offers and compare repair cost with a new entry-level printer.
Free Fixes to Try Before Spending Money
Many fixes cost nothing:
- Restart the printer and clear the print queue.
- Check cables and Wi-Fi links.
- Reload paper properly.
- Use diagnostic tools and supported maintenance.
Check HP’s warranty and support options before paying for service. Our guide on printer warranty terms explains what coverage means.
Ink Cartridge and Consumable Costs
Compare prices for the exact supported cartridge number at US retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Staples. HP lists about 160 pages for the standard 68 black cartridge, about 120 for the 68 tri-color, and about 320 for a high-yield black.
Page yield is an estimate that shifts with coverage and settings. Think in cost per page. As an example only, a $20 cartridge that prints 160 pages costs about 12.5 cents per page. Learn more in why printer ink costs so much and how to reduce ink usage.
When Is Printer Repair or Replacement Worth It?
Weigh the printer’s age, warranty, repair quote, and how often faults repeat. Entry-level printers are often cheaper to replace than repair. Read why your home printer may not be worth repairing first.
Duty cycle is the maximum pages a printer can handle per month. HP lists up to 1,000 for the 2955. Most homes print far less. See how much printing a home printer should handle. For the math, use how to calculate the true cost of owning a printer.
How to Prevent HP DeskJet 2955 Problems in the Future
Routine care avoids most trouble. Use approved maintenance, handle paper well, and keep software current. Print something small every week or two to keep nozzles clear. Learn why in why an inkjet printer dries out.
Best Practices for Ink and Paper Maintenance
- Use paper and cartridges made for this exact model.
- Store paper in a dry place, flat and covered.
- Keep spare cartridges sealed and stored well.
- Follow HP’s cleaning steps instead of extra maintenance.
Check how long unopened ink cartridges last so you do not stock up too far ahead. When a cartridge is spent, see how to recycle old printer cartridges.
Keep Printer Software and Connections Reliable
Update HP software when compatible updates appear. After any router change, review the printer’s connection and keep your Wi-Fi details handy. Print a test page after you change drivers, network settings, or cartridges. See also how often an inkjet printer should be used.
HP DeskJet 2955 vs. Replacing Your Printer: What Should You Choose?
Troubleshooting can also guide a buying choice. Compare total ownership cost, print needs, and connectivity, not just the sticker price.
| Decision factor | Troubleshoot existing printer | Consider replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Basic connection issue | Usually worth checking first | Rarely necessary for this issue alone |
| Stuck print queue or driver issue | Try software fixes | Usually unnecessary |
| Cartridge-related problem | Check compatibility and replace if needed | Consider only if other costs justify it |
| Repeated hardware faults | Obtain a repair estimate | Compare with a new printer’s total cost |
| Frequent high-volume printing | Calculate current cost per page | Consider a model better suited to the workload |
What to Consider Before Buying a Replacement Printer
Compare ink costs, page yield, monthly volume, print quality, supported operating systems, wireless features, and warranty. Cartridge and tank printers cost very differently over time. See ink cartridge printer vs refillable tank, our HP Smart Tank 7302 review, and the best affordable all-in-one printers.
You can also compare close rivals: the HP DeskJet 2955 vs HP Envy 6155e, the HP DeskJet 2955 vs Canon TS4320, and the HP DeskJet 2955 vs Canon PIXMA TR4720.
Frequently Asked Questions About HP DeskJet 2955 Problems
1. Why is my HP DeskJet 2955 not printing?
Check power, paper, and cartridge alerts first. Then clear any stuck print jobs and confirm the right printer is selected. Print a test page from the HP app. If it prints, the issue is on the computer. If not, check ink and the connection.
2. How do I fix my HP DeskJet 2955 when it is offline?
Check the USB cable or Wi-Fi link and the printer’s screen. Make sure the printer is not paused or marked offline in your operating system. Restart the printer, router, and computer, then retry a small print job.
3. Why won’t my HP DeskJet 2955 connect to Wi-Fi?
Confirm the network is on and your password is typed correctly. The 2955 supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, so check your router’s bands. Move the printer closer, then repeat setup with the HP app. Follow HP’s official wireless setup steps.
4. Why is my HP DeskJet 2955 printing blank pages?
Check ink levels and cartridge seating, and remove any protective tape from new cartridges. Print a diagnostic page. If it shows missing ink, run HP’s cleaning cycle once. If blank pages continue, replace the affected cartridge.
5. How do I fix HP DeskJet 2955 paper jams?
Cancel the print job and turn the printer off if HP’s steps say so. Gently pull out the jammed sheet in the direction the paper travels. Check for torn bits, reload fresh paper, and print a test page. Never use force on stuck paper.
6. Why is my HP DeskJet 2955 printing faded or streaky?
Check ink status and your paper settings first. Run a print-quality report, then use the cleaning tool once if HP suggests it. Replace a cartridge only when the report or HP’s guidance supports it. Repeated cleaning wastes ink and rarely helps more.
7. How do I update the HP DeskJet 2955 driver?
Go to the official HP support site and enter your exact model, DeskJet 2955. Choose software that matches your Windows or macOS version, follow the install steps, then print a test page.
8. Why is my HP DeskJet 2955 not detected by my computer?
Check that the USB cable or Wi-Fi link is working. Open your printer list and look for the 2955. Make sure HP’s compatible software is installed. If it still does not appear, remove the printer and add it again, or reinstall the recommended software.
9. Can I fix HP DeskJet 2955 problems without replacing the printer?
Yes, in most cases. Connection checks, queue clearing, software fixes, and routine care solve many problems. Hardware faults may need a professional look. Compare the repair quote with a new printer’s price, including ink costs.
10. Where can I find official HP DeskJet 2955 troubleshooting help?
Start at support.hp.com. Search for the DeskJet 2955 to find manuals, software, and troubleshooting steps. Check warranty eligibility and support options before you pay for any repair, and keep your serial number handy.
Conclusion: Fix HP DeskJet 2955 Problems Efficiently
Most HP DeskJet 2955 problems have simple fixes. Check the printer’s status, inspect paper and ink, clear the queue, verify the connection, and update compatible software. Run these checks in order and test after each one.
Diagnosing the exact symptom before you swap cartridges or buy new hardware saves time and money. Use HP’s official documentation at support.hp.com for model-specific steps. If the printer keeps failing, weigh repair against replacement with our tips on how to reduce home printing costs and the best printers with cheap replacement cartridges.
