Troubleshooting Epson ET-2800 Sublimation Printing Issues: Expert Tips and Solutions
- By Kevin Day
- On Dec 30, 2024
- Comment 0
Question:
I’ve watched all three of your EcoTank troubleshooting videos and am still unsure what to do or if/what parts I might need to purchase. I have the Epson ET-2800 and am using sublimation ink.
When I was missing some black ink, I started with the essential steps (machine-offered print head cleaning and power cleaning) but had no success. I tried using a cleaning solution from Amazon, but it didn’t help. Then, I removed the printhead and wiped it down. After that, it stopped printing black and cyan ink entirely.
I’ve pulled ink through the dampers, and they’re full. I’ve run more cleaning cycles and printed purge sheets but still had no luck. After doing this, I re-wiped the printhead, but no black or cyan ink is visible.
Answer:
Thank you for reaching out and providing a detailed explanation of the troubleshooting steps you’ve already tried. First, I want to apologize for the delay in addressing your question. I understand how urgent printer issues can be and appreciate your patience. At BCH Technologies, we value your engagement and support, especially with our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Your feedback is invaluable in helping us refine our technical expertise.
You’ve already done a commendable job tackling common troubleshooting steps from your description. Based on the symptoms you’re encountering—particularly the absence of black and cyan ink on the printhead despite your efforts—there are a few likely culprits and corresponding solutions:
Given the steps you’ve already tried, I’d recommend focusing on persistent nozzle clogs and potential air in the ink lines. If you’re comfortable, continue the more intensive cleaning and flushing procedures. Alternatively, replacing the printhead or dampers might be necessary if the issue persists.
Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we cannot provide remote troubleshooting or direct support for printer repairs. Our local diagnostic facility offers in-person evaluation and repair services (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis and may require a few weeks for scheduling. Our repair options include whole-printer servicing or specific part replacements, complete with instructions on how to proceed.
If you prefer self-help, we recommend using online resources like our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the menu bar's search icon next to "About" to locate videos on specific topics. YouTube’s algorithm may also suggest helpful videos from other creators.
Thank you again for contacting us. Please let us know if there’s anything else we can assist with. Your engagement means the world to us; we’re always here to help!
I’ve watched all three of your EcoTank troubleshooting videos and am still unsure what to do or if/what parts I might need to purchase. I have the Epson ET-2800 and am using sublimation ink.
When I was missing some black ink, I started with the essential steps (machine-offered print head cleaning and power cleaning) but had no success. I tried using a cleaning solution from Amazon, but it didn’t help. Then, I removed the printhead and wiped it down. After that, it stopped printing black and cyan ink entirely.
I’ve pulled ink through the dampers, and they’re full. I’ve run more cleaning cycles and printed purge sheets but still had no luck. After doing this, I re-wiped the printhead, but no black or cyan ink is visible.
Answer:
Thank you for reaching out and providing a detailed explanation of the troubleshooting steps you’ve already tried. First, I want to apologize for the delay in addressing your question. I understand how urgent printer issues can be and appreciate your patience. At BCH Technologies, we value your engagement and support, especially with our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Your feedback is invaluable in helping us refine our technical expertise.
You’ve already done a commendable job tackling common troubleshooting steps from your description. Based on the symptoms you’re encountering—particularly the absence of black and cyan ink on the printhead despite your efforts—there are a few likely culprits and corresponding solutions:
1. Clogged Printhead Nozzles
Sublimation ink is thicker than regular ink and prone to causing stubborn blockages. While you’ve already cleaned the printhead manually, internal clogs may persist. Here are a few suggestions:- Perform an intensive printhead soak. Submerge only the nozzles in a cleaning solution for several hours (or overnight) to dissolve hardened ink.
- Use a syringe and cleaning solution to flush the nozzles gently. Exercise caution to avoid damaging the printhead.
- If the nozzles remain unresponsive after thorough cleaning, you may need to replace the printhead entirely.
2. Air in the Ink Lines
Even if the dampers appear full, trapped air bubbles in the ink lines or printhead can obstruct proper ink flow. To address this:- Conduct a manual ink charge using Epson’s Adjustment Program or a compatible third-party utility. This process can force ink through the system and remove air pockets.
- Double-check the connections between the ink cartridges and dampers to ensure they’re airtight.
3. Faulty Dampers or Ink Delivery System
While the dampers appear full, they may not be functioning correctly:- Inspect the dampers for clogs or physical damage. Consider replacing them to ensure proper ink regulation.
- Evaluate the ink delivery tubes for blockages or leaks. Replacing the ink system may resolve the issue.
4. Vacuum Seal Issue in the Capping Station
The capping station is crucial for maintaining a vacuum seal during cleaning cycles. If it’s not functioning correctly, the ink won’t be drawn through the nozzles:- Could you clean the capping station thoroughly, paying attention to the rubber seals?
- Inspect the pump tubes for clogs or wear. Replace them if necessary.
5. Advanced Printhead Recovery
Since you’ve already removed and cleaned the printhead, consider combining soaking and manual purging with a high-quality cleaning solution designed for sublimation ink. Afterward, run multiple purge sheets and cleaning cycles to check for improvement.Given the steps you’ve already tried, I’d recommend focusing on persistent nozzle clogs and potential air in the ink lines. If you’re comfortable, continue the more intensive cleaning and flushing procedures. Alternatively, replacing the printhead or dampers might be necessary if the issue persists.
Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we cannot provide remote troubleshooting or direct support for printer repairs. Our local diagnostic facility offers in-person evaluation and repair services (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis and may require a few weeks for scheduling. Our repair options include whole-printer servicing or specific part replacements, complete with instructions on how to proceed.
If you prefer self-help, we recommend using online resources like our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the menu bar's search icon next to "About" to locate videos on specific topics. YouTube’s algorithm may also suggest helpful videos from other creators.
Thank you again for contacting us. Please let us know if there’s anything else we can assist with. Your engagement means the world to us; we’re always here to help!