How to Fix Clogged Ink Lines in an Epson ET-2720 Printer

Question

I’m using an Epson ET-2720 printer and noticed that when I try to suck ink out of the black ink tank with a syringe, I mostly get air, bubbles, and a bit of ink. There’s significant resistance, even with the valve open. Does this mean the ink tank is clogged? If so, does your website sell a compatible replacement ink tank? I saw one listed for the ET-2750, but I wasn’t sure if it worked with the ET-2720.
 

Answer

Thank you for reaching out to us! I apologize for not responding sooner, as I know printer issues like these can be frustrating and often need urgent attention. At BCH Technologies, we strive to provide thoughtful, specific, and detailed solutions to your problems. We also want to thank you for supporting our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies), as your feedback helps us improve our technical expertise and resources.
Now, let’s address your concerns step-by-step.

Diagnosing the Problem

Based on your description, the ink lines in your Epson ET-2720 are clogged. When you try to extract ink and only get air, bubbles, or significant resistance, this usually indicates a blockage in the lines that transport ink from the tank to the printhead.
This problem is common with EcoTank printers, especially if:
  • The printer hasn’t been used for an extended period.
  • Non-genuine or incompatible ink has been used, possibly leading to sediment build-up.
  • Air has entered the ink lines due to improper refilling.

Steps to Fix the Clogged Ink Lines

  1. Inspect the Ink Tank Valve:
    Please make sure the refill valve is fully open. Sometimes, partial closure can mimic symptoms of a clog. If it’s fully open and the problem persists, proceed to the next step.
  2. Flush the Ink Lines:
    You can use a syringe with a specialized nozzle to gently push the cleaning solution through the ink lines. BCH Technologies offers cleaning kits for situations like this, which can help dissolve clogs without damaging your printer. Follow the included instructions for the best results.
  3. Check the Printhead:
    While the issue likely lies in the ink lines, clogs in the printhead can exacerbate the problem. Perform a printhead cleaning cycle from the printer’s maintenance menu, but don’t overdo it, as repeated cycles can deplete the ink.
  4. Verify Line Integrity:
    Inspect the tubing for kinks or air bubbles if you continue to experience resistance while pulling ink. Air can cause interruptions in ink flow and may need to be purged using the syringe method.

Ink Tank Compatibility

Regarding a replacement ink tank, the ET-2750 tank is not directly compatible with the ET-2720 tank, as the designs and connections differ slightly. We recommend sourcing the exact replacement part for your ET-2720 to ensure compatibility. If you can’t find the part on our website, try contacting Epson or a trusted supplier for assistance.
 

Additional Considerations

Addressing printer issues like clogged ink lines can be intricate and time-intensive. Unfortunately, we cannot provide remote troubleshooting or repairs. However, our local diagnostic facility offers in-person evaluation and repair services (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service).
Repairs are handled on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks to get your printer serviced. Our repair services include fixing entire printers or specific parts, with clear instructions for mail-in or drop-off options. If our services don’t meet your budget, we highly encourage self-help by visiting our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search function to find tutorials on similar issues or explore related content suggested by YouTube.
Thank you again for contacting us. We greatly appreciate your trust in BCH Technologies and are always here to help with your printer needs.