Your printer prints faded or streaked pages
Faded output from an inkjet printer is almost always dried ink clogging the nozzles. Run your printer's cleaning tool—this fixes most cases.
Faded or streaked pages happen when dried ink clogs the printhead nozzles so the ink can't flow properly. Your printer has a built-in cleaning utility that dissolves the dried ink. Low ink or toner can also cause fading, and for laser printers you can just need to redistribute the toner.
Risk: Low
⏱ 10-20 minutes
Beginner
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step — just tap, no typing needed.
Skip — I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Running the cleaning cycle more than three times in a row—each cycle uses ink
- Shaking the cartridge hard—gentle rocking is fine but vigorous shaking can cause leaks
- Ignoring gradual fading—a printhead that isn't cleaned eventually clogs permanently
Signs you need professional help
- Two cleaning cycles haven't improved output and ink is adequate
- The nozzle check shows persistent gaps in specific colour channels
- Your printer is making mechanical noises alongside the quality issue
Book a technician
We can fix most issues remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments — book your slot and we handle the rest.
Can't fix it yourself?
Most issues are resolved remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments only — no parts, no in-home visit needed.