9-4 Maintenance
Note:
❏ Print head cleaning uses both color and black ink. To avoid wasting 
ink, clean the print head only if print quality declines; for example, 
if the printout is blurry or the color is incorrect or missing.
❏ Use the Nozzle Check utility first to confirm that the print head 
needs to be cleaned. This saves ink.
❏ When the 
b
error light is flashing or on, you cannot clean the print 
head. Replace the appropriate ink cartridge first.
❏ Do not start the Head Cleaning or Nozzle Check utility while 
printing is in progress; otherwise, your printout may be marred.
Using the Head Cleaning utility
Refer to the appropriate section below to use the Head Cleaning 
utility.
For Windows users
Follow the steps below to clean the print head using the Head 
Cleaning utility.
1. Make sure that the printer is on and the 
b
error light is off.
Note:
If the 
b
error light is flashing, you cannot clean the print head. 
Replace the appropriate ink cartridge first.
2. Access the printer software. For instructions, see “Accessing 
the printer software” on page 3-2.
3. Click the Utility tab, then click the Head Cleaning button.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
The 
P
 power light flashes while the printer performs the 
cleaning cycle. It takes about thirty seconds to complete.