If your HP Envy 4520 printer is not printing black, there are a few possible solutions you can try to fix the issue.
Here are four potential fixes to try, along with a conclusion on what to do if these solutions don’t work.
1. Inspect The Ink Levels
Before trying anything else, make sure that your printer has enough black ink.
If the ink levels are low, simply replace the black ink cartridge with a new one. This is a simple solution, but it can fix the problem if the issue is low ink levels.

2. Clean the Printhead
If the ink levels are sufficient, the next step is to clean the printhead.
This is the component of the printer that distributes the ink onto the page.
Over time, the printhead can become clogged with dried ink, which can prevent the printer from printing properly.
To clean the printhead, follow these steps:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power outlet.
- Open the ink cartridge access door and remove the ink cartridges.
- Use a clean, damp cloth to gently clean the printhead and the contacts on the ink cartridges.
- Reinsert the ink cartridges and close the access door.
- Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
3. Complete a Power Reset
If cleaning the printhead doesn’t fix the problem, the next step is to perform a power reset.
This will reset the printer and clear any temporary errors or issues that may be preventing it from printing properly.
To perform a power reset, follow these steps:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power outlet.
- Leave it unplugged for at least 60 seconds.
- Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
- Try printing again to see if the problem has been resolved.

4. Update the Printer Firmware
If the power reset doesn’t fix the problem, the next step is to update the printer firmware.
Firmware is the software that controls the printer’s functions and features. If the firmware is out of date, it can cause the printer to malfunction.
To update the printer firmware, follow these steps:
- Visit the HP website and download the latest printer firmware update.
- Install the update on your computer, following the on-screen instructions.
- Connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to update the printer firmware.
How do you unclog a black printhead?
To unclog a black printhead, you can try the following steps:
- Make sure the printer is turned off and unplugged.
- Remove any paper or other obstructions from the printer.
- Moisten a lint-free cloth with warm water and gently wipe the printhead to remove any debris or dried ink. Be careful not to damage the printhead or allow it to become too wet.
- If the printhead is still clogged, you can try using a mild cleaning solution, such as isopropyl alcohol, to gently clean it. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaning solution and use it sparingly to avoid damaging the printhead.
If these steps do not work, you may need to replace the printhead on your printer.
Consult the user manual for your printer for instructions on how to do this. Alternatively, you can contact the manufacturer for assistance.
How do I clean the printhead on my HP Envy 4520 printer?
To clean the printhead on your HP Envy 4520 printer, you can try the following steps:
- Make sure the printer is turned off and unplugged.
- Remove any paper or other obstructions from the printer.
- Open the ink cartridge access door and locate the printhead.
- Moisten a lint-free cloth with warm water and gently wipe the printhead to remove any debris or dried ink. Be careful not to damage the printhead or allow it to become too wet.
- If the printhead is still clogged, you can try using a mild cleaning solution, such as isopropyl alcohol, to gently clean it. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaning solution and use it sparingly to avoid damaging the printhead.
If these steps do not work, you may need to replace the printhead on your printer.
Consult the user manual for your printer for instructions on how to do this. Alternatively, you can contact HP customer support for assistance.
Conclusion
If your HP Envy 4520 printer is not printing black, there are several possible solutions you can try.
Start by checking the ink levels and replacing the black ink cartridge if necessary.
If that doesn’t work, try cleaning the printhead, performing a power reset, and updating the printer firmware.
If none of these solutions fix the problem, contact HP support for further assistance.