How to Fix Flashing Red Cartridge Light on HP DeskJet 3639 After Refilling Ink

Question:
I have an HP DeskJet 3639, and after refilling my cartridges the ink level indicator shows a flashing red light that says the cartridge is empty. How can I reset this light to show the cartridges are full of ink? This flashing light also gives an error to the printer and it won't let me print anything.

Answer:

When it comes to your HP DeskJet 3639, the flashing red light and "empty cartridge" message is unfortunately a common problem after refilling HP cartridges. The issue is not actually with the ink supply-it is tied to the printer's cartridge monitoring system. HP uses an internal chip in the cartridges that permanently tracks ink usage. Once the printer registers that a cartridge is empty, the chip cannot be reset by refilling the cartridge with ink.

Here are some important points to understand:

1. Ink Level Reset Limitation
   Unlike some other printer brands, HP's DeskJet line (including the 3630 series) does not allow users to manually reset the ink level monitor. Once the chip flags the cartridge as empty, the printer continues to display the warning-even if the cartridge is refilled.

2. Error Light and Printing Restriction
   The flashing red light you are seeing corresponds to the "Empty Cartridge" error. Unfortunately, in many HP printers, this error is designed to block printing. On the 3639, it can sometimes allow you to bypass the message, but in other cases, the error fully locks out printing until the cartridge is replaced.

3. Possible Workarounds

   • Ignore the Indicator (If Possible): In some models, the printer will still allow printing even with the empty warning. Try pressing and holding the Resume/Cancel button (triangle inside a circle) for 5-10 seconds. This sometimes overrides the error temporarily.

   • Disable Ink Level Notifications: In the HP printer software, check if you can turn off ink monitoring or alerts. This won't reset the levels but may stop the flashing warnings.

   • Use a New Chip or Cartridge: If the chip is permanently marked as empty, the only way to restore normal function is to replace the cartridge with a new one or install a chip resetter (if one is available for your cartridge model). For HP 302/63/65 series cartridges used in this printer, chip resetters are rare and often unreliable.

   • Consider Continuous Ink Systems (CISS): Some users switch to a CISS or refillable cartridges with auto-reset chips to avoid constant error messages.

Unfortunately, for your current HP DeskJet 3639 cartridges, there is no permanent reset method for the ink level indicator. Once the printer thinks the cartridge is empty, the chip won't "forget" that status.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before we can receive your printer. Our services can repair entire printers or specific parts, with clear instructions provided. However, we recognize our rates may not be the most economical, so we strongly recommend exploring self-help options such as online research. A great starting point is our YouTube channel's homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to "About" to find videos on specific topics. Since we've created hundreds of videos over the past nine years, it's hard to recall each one, but the search function will help you locate what you need-and YouTube may even recommend additional helpful videos from other channels.

Thank you again for reaching out and for supporting BCH Technologies. We truly appreciate your engagement, and we're always here to help guide you as best we can.