Why Haven’t You Changed Your HP Printer’s Default Tray Yet? Learn How Now!

Are you tired of your HP printer stubbornly spitting out your documents on the wrong paper type? Changing the default tray on your HP printer is a simple yet powerful tool to streamline your printing process and ensure you always get the desired output. This guide will walk you through the process, covering everything from navigating the printer settings to understanding the different tray options.

Why Change Your HP Printer’s Default Tray?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand why changing the default tray is so important. Here are some key benefits:

• Streamlined Printing: Imagine printing a document on letter-sized paper, only to find it’s been printed on the smaller 4×6 photo paper. Changing the default tray eliminates this frustration, ensuring your printer automatically selects the correct paper size for your needs.
• Optimized Paper Usage: By setting the default tray to the paper size you use most often, you’ll save time and reduce wasted paper. No more manually switching trays for every print job!
• Professional Print Quality: If you’re printing on specialty paper like cardstock or photo paper, changing the default tray ensures your printer uses the correct settings for optimal print quality.

How to Change HP Printer Default Tray – The Basics

The process of changing your HP printer‘s default tray is generally straightforward. However, the exact steps may vary slightly depending on your printer model and operating system. Here’s a general outline:
1. Access Printer Settings:

• Windows: Open the “Start” menu, type “Devices and Printers,” and select your printer. Right-click on your printer icon and choose “Printing Preferences” or “Properties.”
• Mac: Open “System Preferences,” then click on “Printers & Scanners.” Select your printer and click on “Options & Supplies.”

2. Locate Tray Options:

• Within the printer settings, look for a section labeled “Paper/Quality” or “Paper Handling.” This section will contain the tray settings.

3. Select Default Tray:

• Choose the tray you want to set as the default. This is usually indicated by a drop-down menu or a radio button selection.

4. Apply Changes:

• Confirm your selection and click “Apply” or “OK” to save the changes.

Detailed Steps for Changing Default Tray on HP Printers

Now let’s delve into more specific steps for changing the default tray on a few popular HP printer models.

HP DeskJet Printers

1. Access Printer Settings: Open the “Start” menu, type “Devices and Printers,” and select your DeskJet printer. Right-click on the printer icon and choose “Printing Preferences.”
2. Navigate to Paper/Quality: In the “Printing Preferences” window, click on the “Paper/Quality” tab.
3. Select Tray: Under the “Paper Source” section, choose the tray you want to set as the default. You’ll see a drop-down menu with options like “Tray 1,” “Tray 2,” or “Automatic.”
4. Apply Changes: Click “Apply” or “OK” to save the changes.

HP Envy Printers

1. Access Printer Settings: Open the “Start” menu, type “Devices and Printers,” and select your Envy printer. Right-click on the printer icon and choose “Printing Preferences.”
2. Navigate to Paper/Quality: In the “Printing Preferences” window, click on the “Paper/Quality” tab.
3. Select Tray: Under the “Paper Source” section, choose the tray you want to set as the default. You’ll see a drop-down menu with options like “Tray 1,” “Tray 2,” or “Automatic.”
4. Apply Changes: Click “Apply” or “OK” to save the changes.

HP OfficeJet Printers

1. Access Printer Settings: Open the “Start” menu, type “Devices and Printers,” and select your OfficeJet printer. Right-click on the printer icon and choose “Printing Preferences.”
2. Navigate to Paper/Quality: In the “Printing Preferences” window, click on the “Paper/Quality” tab.
3. Select Tray: Under the “Paper Source” section, choose the tray you want to set as the default. You’ll see a drop-down menu with options like “Tray 1,” “Tray 2,” or “Automatic.”
4. Apply Changes: Click “Apply” or “OK” to save the changes.

Troubleshooting Tips for Changing Default Tray

If you’re encountering difficulties changing your HP printer‘s default tray, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Restart Your Printer: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix minor software glitches. Turn off your printer, unplug it for a few seconds, plug it back in, and turn it on.
• Update Printer Drivers: Outdated drivers can cause compatibility issues. Visit the HP website and download the latest drivers for your printer model.
• Check Paper Settings in Documents: Some documents may have specific paper settings embedded within them. Check the document’s “Page Setup” or “Print” options to see if the paper size or tray is set differently from your printer’s default.
• Consult HP Support: If none of these solutions work, contact HP support for assistance. They can provide tailored guidance based on your printer model and operating system.

Beyond Default Trays: Unlocking Advanced HP Printer Features

Changing your default tray is just the beginning of mastering your HP printer. Here are some additional features you can explore:

• Paper Type Settings: Customize your print quality by adjusting settings like paper type, print resolution, and color settings based on the specific paper you’re using.
• Automatic Tray Selection: Enable the “Automatic” tray option to let your printer intelligently choose the best tray based on the document’s paper size and type.
• Custom Tray Configurations: Configure your printer to use specific trays for specific print jobs, such as using Tray 1 for letter-sized paper and Tray 2 for photo paper.
• Advanced Print Settings: Explore advanced settings like duplex printing, borderless printing, and custom paper sizes to tailor your printing experience.

Time to Print with Confidence!

By understanding how to change your HP printer‘s default tray and exploring other advanced features, you’ll unlock a world of printing possibilities. Print with confidence, knowing that your documents will always be printed on the right paper, in the right format, and with the best possible quality.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I change the default tray from my smartphone or tablet?
A: Depending on your printer model and the HP Smart app, you may be able to change the default tray from your mobile device. Check the HP Smart app’s settings for tray options.
Q: What if my printer only has one tray?
A: If your printer has only one tray, you won’t be able to change the default tray. However, you can still adjust the paper type and size settings within the printer’s settings.
Q: Can I change the default tray for specific applications?
A: Some applications might have their own print settings that override your printer’s default tray settings. Check the print settings within the application to see if you can customize the paper source.
Q: My printer keeps defaulting back to the wrong tray. What can I do?
A: If your printer keeps reverting to the wrong tray, there might be a software glitch or a problem with the printer’s memory. Try restarting your printer and updating the drivers. If the issue persists, contact HP support for assistance.