Fix Printer Not Printing on Mac by Clearing Queue and Resetting System

Summary

This article provides troubleshooting steps for macOS users who encounter issues with their printers appearing paused, stuck, or not responding.

Body

Questions

  • Why does my printer say it's "paused" or "in use" on my Mac?
  • How do I clear a stuck print queue in macOS?
  • What steps can I take if my Mac won't send jobs to the printer?
  • Is it safe to reset the printing system in macOS?
  • Can I restart the printer spooler on a Mac?

Environment

This article applies to users on macOS who are experiencing problems where a printer appears to be paused, stuck in use, or unable to print new documents. These issues commonly occur with wired or wireless printers that were previously working but are now unresponsive. 

Resolution

  1. Check Printer Status:
    Go to the Apple menu and select System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions). Click Printers & Scanners. Select your printer from the list. If the status is "Paused," click the "Resume" button.
  2. Cancel or Clear Stuck Print Jobs:
    In the same printer window, click Open Print Queue.... Right-click (or Control-click) on any print job that is stuck or not printing. Choose Cancel to remove it. Repeat if needed. Then try printing again.
  3. Restart Your Mac:
    Sometimes the PaperCut client stops working (for campus printers). A software restart can fix the PaperCut Client and clears communication issues between your Mac and the printer. Go to the Apple menu and select Restart.
  4. Power Cycle the Printer:
    Turn off the printer, wait 30 seconds, turn it on again and wait for it to fully start. This step can reset internal hardware states and clear minor problems.
  5. Delete and Re-add the Printer:
    On your Mac, go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners. Select the printer and click the minus button (–) to remove it. Then open PaperCut Print Deploy to add it back. 
  6. Reset the Printing System (if necessary):
    As a last resort, return to Printers & Scanners. Right-click (or Control-click) in the printer list and select Reset printing system.... This removes all printers and queues, allowing you to start from scratch. You'll need to re-add all of your printers afterward.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you can chat with Bowdoin Bot of contact the Bowdoin College Service Desk by phone at (207) 725-3030 or in person at the Tech Hub in Smith Union.