How to Fix Epson ET-2850 Waste Ink Pad E-11 Error Added an External Waste Ink Tank

Question: 
I bought your Waste Ink Collection Tank Combo with a Small Tube for my Epson ET-2850 printer and could install it. But now I see the message "The ink pad needs service. E-11—Contact Epson" Error Code appears. I thought that the waste collection tank would stop this message from coming up. How can I resolve this issue?
 
Answer: Thanks for your question! I am genuinely sorry to hear you are getting back to me late. First, I understand that printer problems can be irritating and need urgent attention. Still, I want to ensure I'm giving you the most comprehensive and accurate troubleshooting advice. Thank you for your support and engagement with BCH Technologies (https://bchtechnologies.com), especially on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). We greatly value your feedback, as it is essential to continue to build our deep technical skills.
That leads us to your Epson ET-2850 Error Code E-11, even with a waste ink collection tank installed, so let’s get to it.
 
The Waste Ink Pad and Collection Tank System
Mistake E-11 waste ink pad error method two.
 
The Printer Does Not Track Ink Pad Usage
Although the waste ink collection tank in your printer diverts waste ink from the inside to the outside — there’s still a counter built into your printer that tracks the estimated saturation of that ink pad. Once a counter reaches a predefined limit, the printer thinks the pad is complete, and the "The ink pad needs service" (E-11) error is activated.
 
How to Reset Waste Ink Counter
You can not just use an external waste ink tank but also reset the waste ink counter. Here's how you can do it:
 
How to Clear the Waste Ink Counter
 
WIC Reset Utility Download
Download the software, go to InkChip’s WIC Reset Tool (https://www.inkchip.net/wic).
 
Install and Run the Software
Launch the software and link your Epson ET-2850 printer to a computer by USB
 
Check the Waste Ink Counter
Open the software and find the “Read Waste Counters” for the current waste ink counter level.
 
Reset the Counter
Choose “Reset Waste Ink Counter,” then follow the instructions on the screen.
To finish the process, you must buy a website reset key.
 
Restart the Printer
After resetting, switch off the printer and switch it on to check if the error clears.
 

  • The ink collection tank functions as a waste ink tank to reduce physical ink overflow inside the printer and extend its life, preventing it from reaching the point where the internal waste pad needs to be replaced.
  • The external waste ink collection tank's waste ink counter will also need to be reset since the printer firmware does not automatically sense the need for such a change.
  • If you again encounter errors, please ensure that the waste ink tubing is installed correctly and free of blockages.

 
When to Consider Professional Guidance
If these steps don’t fix the issue, the problem may require professional repair. We provide on-site printer diagnostics and repair services at BCH Technologies (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). We operate on a first-come, first-served basis with high demand, so there may be a wait time before we see your printer. We specialize in whole-unit repairs and have various parts replacement options, but our price may not be the most cost-effective. If you are a Do-It-Yourselfer, we invite you to visit our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) for dozens of troubleshooting videos. Search for relevant videos with the search icon next to “About” on our channel page.
 
Thanks again for your message! This guide will help resolve the E-11 waste ink pad error on your Epson ET-2850. If you have more questions, please let us know. We appreciate your continued support!