Epson EcoTank ST-2000 Sublimation Printer Printing Issues: Color Accuracy and Nozzle Clogs

Question:
I recently purchased the Epson EcoTank ST-2000 Sublimation Printer. Although it was advertised as ready to print, the images are not coming out with full resolution. When printing on A-Sub sublimation paper, the results show lines across the image, and the colors don't match what is displayed on the screen. What could be causing this, and how can it be fixed?

Answer:

There are two main factors behind what you are experiencing:

1. Color Accuracy in Sublimation Printing

It's important to know that sublimation ink will not display actual color directly on paper. The final, accurate colors only appear after the heat transfer process onto your substrate (such as fabric, mug, or metal plate). This is a standard behavior of sublimation ink and not an indication of a malfunction in your printer.

2. Nozzle Clogging and Banding Issues

The horizontal lines across your prints are a classic sign of a clogged printhead nozzle. This issue is quite common, especially after shipping or long idle periods. When the nozzles are partially blocked, the printer cannot eject ink properly, resulting in missing lines and reduced resolution.

Here's a structured cleaning and maintenance process to address it:

Step-by-Step Cleaning Schedule

Day 1

• Go to your printer's menu: Settings → Maintenance → Print Head Cleaning.

• Run a nozzle check after each cleaning.

• Perform up to three cleaning cycles until the nozzle check pattern is perfect.

• Power off the printer and wait at least 10 minutes.

• Power it back on and repeat up to three more cleaning cycles if needed.

• If the nozzle check is still not perfect, stop and let the printer rest for 12 hours.

Day 2

• Perform another set of three cleaning cycles, checking the nozzle pattern each time.

• Power off the printer for at least 10 minutes and repeat up to three more cycles.

• If you still cannot achieve a perfect nozzle check, further service may be required.

Important Note: Once the nozzle check pattern is perfect, stop cleaning immediately and proceed with normal printing. Over-cleaning can waste ink and put unnecessary strain on the printhead.

Preventive Measures

• Print at least one page per day (even a small test page) to keep ink flowing through the nozzles.

• If clogs reappear, repeat the cleaning schedule above.

• Always use high-quality sublimation paper and ensure your printer is placed in a dust-free environment.

Addressing printer issues can be complicated due to the hands-on nature of the problems. For this reason, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting or direct repair support. However, BCH Technologies does offer in-person evaluation and repair services through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Please note that we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before we can service your printer. Our work includes both whole printer repairs and specific part replacements. While our rates may not be the lowest, we highly encourage self-help through online research. A good starting point is our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to "About" in the menu bar to find videos on your specific issue. YouTube may also suggest helpful videos from other creators.

Thank you again for reaching out and for your patience. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to helping you get the best performance out of your printer.