How to Clean and Reset the Waste Ink Tray on Inkjet Printers
- By Kevin Day
- On Dec 10, 2024
- Comment 0
Question:
I’ve noticed that when I run a printhead cleaning cycle on my printer, it uses ink, which seems to accumulate in a small tray over time. Eventually, this tray builds up with ink. How can I clean it, and are there any additional steps I need to take?Answer:
Thank you for your thoughtful question and for contacting us at BCH Technologies! I'm sorry for not getting back to you sooner. I understand printer issues can feel urgent, and I want to provide the most comprehensive and accurate information possible. Your support and engagement with our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) are greatly appreciated—they help us continually grow and refine our expertise.Now, let’s address your concerns about waste ink accumulation and cleaning.
Waste Ink Systems in Printers
Most modern printers, including those from Epson, HP, and Canon, handle waste ink generated during printhead cleaning cycles by directing it to an absorption pad or a waste ink tank. The specifics vary depending on the manufacturer:-
Epson Printers
Epson printers generally have a waste ink tank that collects excess ink. Some models conveniently include a removable tank accessible via a small door. This feature lets users clean or replace the tank without disassembling the printer.
- Ink Pad Counter Reset: Epson printers monitor the waste ink pad usage through a counter. Once the counter reaches its limit, the printer may display an error, preventing further printing.
- Tools like WICReset (https://inkchip.net/wic) or an Adjustment Program are needed to reset the counter. These tools can be found online, and they reset the counter to restore printing functionality.
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HP Printers
HP printers typically direct waste ink to an absorption pad built into the chassis. Unlike Epson and Canon, HP printers often continue functioning even when the pad is complete, which could lead to ink overflow issues.
- Cleaning the Ink Pad: Cleaning the absorption pad in HP printers requires partially disassembling the printer. The pad can then be washed, dried, or replaced if necessary.
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Canon Printers
Canon printers also use absorption pads but differ from HP in that they will disable the printer entirely when the pad is full.
- Service Tool Reset: To reset the "out of service" error, you’ll need a tool like the Canon Service Tool, which is available on platforms like eBay. This tool resets the printer’s waste ink counter, enabling it to function again.
- Physical Cleaning: Like HP, accessing and cleaning the ink pad involves opening the printer.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
- Epson Models with Waste Ink Doors: Check if your Epson printer has a dedicated door for removing waste ink tanks. If so, clean the tank regularly to prevent buildup.
- HP and Canon Users: To access the absorption pad, follow your printer’s manual or reliable online guides for disassembly instructions.
- Replacement Kits: Replacement kits for Epson and Canon are available online for waste ink tanks or absorption pads.
Addressing printer issues can be complex due to the hands-on nature of repairs. While we cannot provide remote troubleshooting, we offer in-person diagnostic and repair services through our local facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Just so you know, our services operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before we can take care of your printer.
We highly recommend exploring our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) for those looking to troubleshoot independently. Use the search function to find specific topics or browse suggestions from other creators on YouTube.
Thank you again for your question and for supporting BCH Technologies. We’re always here to assist with your printer needs!