Top 10 Ways to Fix Google Sheets Not Printing Error

Cloud storage-based document editors such as Google Docs and Sheets have reduced the need to print documents. Still, there are times when you need physical copies. Few users are often unable to print Google Sheets, leading to last-minute scrambling for solutions. The error is common when using both regular and local printers and when using Google Cloud Print.

You can still send or share the document with others via Google Drive and email. We will help you quickly fix the Google Sheets not printing error. The solutions are easy to follow and not very technical.

Let’s start.

1. Check Cables or Wi-Fi

Check the cables to make sure the computer and printer are properly connected. In case of Cloud Print setup, check the Wi-Fi network. Make sure the computer and printer are on the same network and have a strong signal.

I would suggest a quick reboot to close all background processes and refresh everything. Be sure to save any open jobs or files before rebooting. Here is the series I recommend:

1. Start the printer.
2. Connect the printer to the Wi-Fi network.
3. Start the computer and connect to the same Wi-Fi network.
4. Open the Google Sheets file and issue the print command.

2. Printer Cloud Ready

Not all printers are made equal. Make sure yours is cloud ready. Here’s how to learn. Google maintains an extensive list of printers that support cloud printing. Search for your name to check if it appears. To avoid mistakes, start with the brand name, then start with the model name and number. Check the box or guide to be more precise.

Here’s what Google has to say:

• If your printer isn’t listed but supports Wi-Fi, it isn’t cloud ready, but you can set it up to work with Google Cloud Print.
• If it says v2 next to the printer name, it supports version 2.0.
• If the printer is listed but v2 is not written, it supports version 1.0.

Follow the link shared above to learn how to set up a Wi-Fi printer from scratch.

3. Different Browser

You are probably using Google Chrome to access and use Google Sheets when issuing the print command. Try a different browser like Edge or Firefox and see if it works. This is also a good time to check if you are using the latest version of the browser.

4. Incognito Mode

The reason I recommend Incognito Mode is because certain extensions/plugins may be interrupting the printing process. A simple switch to incognito mode will help you figure out if your hunch is right. Most likely, it’s a PDF-related extension.

5. Choose the Right Printer

Your workplace may have multiple printers, which can cause confusion. Check that you are sending the Google Sheets document to the correct printer for printing. All available printers should be listed in a column under Print Destinations in the Select a destination pop-up window. The default printer is the one you last used, but select it manually to be safe.

6. Re-Add Printer

Visit the Google Print page and delete the printer in Google Sheets that isn’t working for you. Now choose one of the options based on using a cloud or a local printer.

7. Troubleshooting

Troubleshoot is a built-in Windows 10 program that will help you fix many problems with both hardware and software services.

Stage 1: Press Windows key+I to open Settings and search for ‘Find and fix printing problems’.

Step 2: In the popup that follows, select Apply repairs automatically and click Next.

You will now follow the onscreen instructions and witness if Troubleshooting can fix the Google Sheets printing not working error.

You can also try the Hardware and Devices troubleshooting option, but it was recently removed from Settings. You can still access it from the Command Prompt.

Stage 1: Search and open Command Prompt from the Start menu by selecting Run as administrator.

Step 2: Issue the following command and you will be greeted with a pop-up window similar to the one you see above. Again follow the same steps.

msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic

8. Manage Drivers

To ensure perfect compatibility, you need to roll back the drivers to a previous version, update to the latest version, or uninstall and reinstall the drivers from scratch. The drivers should be reinstalled automatically. However, you can download them directly from Google. Looking for Printers in Device Manager when working with drivers.

9. Update Firmware

Note the make and model of the printer and visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest version. A reboot is mostly not necessary, but recommended.

10. Convert to PDF

If nothing else seems to be working for you, here’s a weird tip for you. Open Sheets and under the File menu you will find an option to convert the document to PDF format.

Now open the PDF file and issue the print command from there. So the goal is to print the same document as a PDF rather than a spreadsheet.

Print the World

The world’s transition to 3D printing is amazing, and we’re still struggling with local and cloud printers. But that’s how our relationship with technology works. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. This could include feedback or a new way to fix this old bug.

Next: Do you have a Chromebook? Click the link below to learn how to print using a Chromebook as things work a little differently there.