How to Identify Clogs and Choose the Right Cleaning Solution for HP OfficeJet Pro 8620

Question: How can I tell if my HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 is clogged, and which BCH cleaning solution should I use—Clear, Green, or Red? How do I identify what type of ink my printer uses?

Answer:

Identifying a Clog in the HP OfficeJet Pro 8620

The first step is to print a nozzle check to determine whether your printer is clogged. This test pattern will show you if any colors or nozzles are missing or misfiring:

• If some lines or colors are entirely missing, it signifies a partial or complete clog.

• If colors appear faded or uneven, it suggests dried ink or air bubbles inside the printhead.

• You may also notice error codes or messages like “Printhead problem” or “Ink system failure,” often associated with ink flow or clogging issues.

How to Identify the Type of Ink Used

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 typically uses HP 950/951 cartridges containing pigment-based ink. You can confirm this by checking the cartridge labeling or your printer’s user manual. Pigment inks are known for their sharp text quality and water resistance, but they are also more prone to clogging if the printer isn't used regularly.

Choosing the Correct BCH Cleaning Solution

BCH Technologies offers three primary cleaning solutions, each tailored to specific ink types and clog severities:

Clear Cleaning Solution – Dual Action (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/dual-action-cleaning-solution-for-dye-and-pigment-inks)

• Suitable for: Dye and pigment inks

• Best for: Light to moderate clogs

• Features: Gentle, non-corrosive, and safe for all printer brands

• Recommended for: Routine maintenance and everyday use

Green Cleaning Solution – Triple Action (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/triple-action-cleaning-solution-for-dye-pigment-sublimation-inks-1)

• Suitable for: Dye, pigment, and sublimation inks

• Best for: Moderate to persistent clogs

• Features: Stronger than a clear solution, still eco-friendly

• Recommended for: Infrequently used printers or visible ink blockages

Red Cleaning Solution – Professional Strength (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/professional-red-cleaning-solution-for-water-based-inks-dye-pigment-sublimation-not-for-solvent-ink)

• Suitable for: Dye, pigment, and sublimation inks

• Best for: Severe or long-standing clogs

• Features: High potency—must be flushed out within 24 hours

• Recommended for: Experienced users or professional repairs

If you are dealing with white DTF or DTG ink clogs, check out our Premium Cleaning Solutions for DTF Inks - MaxStrength™ (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/premium-cleaning-solutions-for-dtf-inks-maxstrength-against-white-ink-clog). These are not suitable for dye ink and are intended for advanced applications.

Important Tips for Using Cleaning Solutions

• Always follow the instructions that come with the cleaning solution.

• Use syringes, tubing, and printhead ports carefully to avoid damaging the nozzle.

• Never leave a high-strength cleaner (like Red Solution) inside the printer longer than recommended.

• If using a cleaning cartridge, ensure it matches your HP 950/951 ink port configuration.

A Note on Repair Support

Dealing with clogged printheads or ink systems can be hands-on and technical. Because of this, we unfortunately cannot provide remote diagnostics, repair guidance, or individual support for printer issues. However, we do offer an in-person diagnostic and repair service through our printer repair facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). The service is first-come, first-served and may involve a wait time of several weeks. We offer repairs for full printers or individual components, depending on your needs.

If you prefer a DIY approach, we strongly encourage online research. A great place to start is our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon beside the “About” tab to find videos on specific topics. With over nine years of content, even we have to use YouTube’s built-in search to locate specific guides. The platform may also recommend helpful content from other creators.

Thanks again for reaching out to us! We value your continued trust and support. If you have more questions or run into additional issues, don’t hesitate to reach out—or better yet, search our YouTube channel for a potential walkthrough. Happy printing!