Can You Use the "Shocking Secrets" Printhead Unclogging Method on Epson L3110-L5290 Printheads?

Question: I watched your video "#1 Shocking Secrets of L1800 L805 Printhead Unclogging Machine." Can I use that same method on Epson L3110 to L5290 printheads? 

Answer: 

No-don't use the L1800/L805 method on L3110-L5290 printheads

The "L1800/L805" style unclogging approach shown in that video is designed around the printhead architecture and ink delivery design of those models. Epson L3110 through L5290 printers are built differently, and because of that, using the same technique can be ineffective-or worse, it can damage the printhead.

Why the L3110-L5290 Printheads Clean Differently

1) Different printhead structure and access

On many L3110-L5290 units, the printhead assembly is more integrated into the carriage and ink path, and the way ink is distributed internally is not the same as the L1800/L805 style heads. That matters because unclogging isn't just about "pushing fluid through"-it's about pushing it through the correct channels at the correct pressure and with the correct contact points.

2) Higher risk of internal damage from aggressive methods

Some "machine-style" or aggressive flushing methods can:

• Delaminate the nozzle plate (the tiny nozzle surface),

• Force debris deeper into micro-channels,

• Cause cross-channel contamination (colors bleeding into each other),

• Damage seals, dampers, or internal capillary structures.

Once that happens, the printer may go from "clogged" to "permanently inconsistent," even if it prints again.

3) Cleaning is often done by opening the head (when appropriate)

For L3110-L5290 printheads, a more appropriate approach is often to open up the printhead area for direct cleaning and address:

• Dried ink at the nozzle plate,

• Capping station contamination,

• Wiper blade ink buildup,

• Air leaks in the ink path (which can mimic a clog),

• Weak suction at the cap/pump (the printer "cleans" but doesn't actually pull ink).

This is why your proposed direction is correct: L3110 needs a different cleaning strategy, and it's usually more hands-on.

The Most Common Causes People Mistake as "Clogs" on L3110-L5290

Even when the print looks clogged, these models frequently suffer from issues that look like clogs but aren't:

A) Air in the ink line or printhead

If the tank ran low, the printer sat unused, or the ink line has a tiny leak, you may get:

• Missing lines in a nozzle check,

• Faded or "grainy" bands,

• One color dropping out intermittently.

B) Capping station not sealing

If the cap doesn't seal tightly under the head, cleaning cycles won't pull ink properly. You can run cleaning after cleaning, and it won't improve.

C) Pump or waste ink path issues

A weak pump or clogged waste path reduces suction. Again, repeated cleanings won't help much.

D) Dried ink on the nozzle plate (external clog)

Sometimes the clog is more "on the surface" than inside. In those cases, direct cleaning is more effective than forcing fluid through.

What You Can Do Safely Before Any "Deep Cleaning"

If you're troubleshooting at home, these are generally the safer, lower-risk steps:

1. Run a nozzle check first (before you do anything).
   This tells you whether the issue is consistent (true clog) or random (often air/seal/pump).

2. Do not run excessive head cleanings.
   Multiple cleanings in a row can overheat the printhead, flood the capping area, and dump lots of ink into the waste pads-sometimes creating new problems.

3. Let the printer rest between cleanings if you must do them.
   Rest time helps ink rehydrate and reduces heat stress.

4. Inspect the capping station and wiper blade (if you know how).
   If those are filthy, the printer cannot maintain a good seal and cannot clean effectively.

Because your question didn't mention a specific error code, there are no printer error codes to reference here. If you see any numeric code or message on the screen (for example, a service error or ink system error), include it-codes help separate mechanical issues from ink system issues quickly.

About the Video You Mentioned

You're absolutely right to ask before trying it. That specific video method is meant for a different family of printheads. For the L3110-L5290 range, your best results usually come from opening the printhead area and cleaning it the correct way, rather than applying the same technique used on L1800/L805 heads. You also mentioned you're waiting for a new video-yes, that makes sense, because the procedure and risks are different enough that it deserves its own walkthrough.

Addressing printer issues can be complicated because so much of the diagnosis is hands-on and depends on physical inspection, suction behavior, and component condition. Because of that, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, step-by-step repair guidance, or ongoing support for printer repairs. We do offer an in-person evaluation and repair option through our local diagnostic facility: Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before we can accept your printer for drop-off. Our services are designed to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. That said, we recognize our rates aren't the most economical, so we strongly recommend self-help through online research. You can start on YouTube or by visiting our channel homepage: BCH Technologies on YouTube (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). To find a specific topic fast, use the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of requests daily asking for a video on a specific issue, and after nine years of publishing it's difficult to remember every single upload-so YouTube search is the fastest approach. YouTube may also recommend helpful videos from other channels that match your exact symptoms.

Thanks again for reaching out and for supporting BCH Technologies and our YouTube channel. I appreciate you checking before trying a method that could risk the printhead, and I hope this points you toward a safer, model-appropriate cleaning approach.