Epson ET-15000 Printhead Replacement: How to Identify the Correct Printhead Model (FA35001 vs FA35011)

Question

I watched your video about Epson ET-15000 printhead removal and replacement, but I'm still confused about buying the right part. How do I know which printhead model I need for the Epson ET-15000?

Answer

The short answer: the ET-15000 printhead family you're looking for

The Epson ET-15000 commonly shares the same printhead family used across several EcoTank and L-series models, including examples like:

• Epson ET-15000

• Epson ET-3700

• Epson ET-3850

• Epson L6160 / L6161 / L6171 / L6198 (regional equivalents)

For Epson's part numbering, the printhead part numbers most often referenced for this family are:

• FA35001

• FA35011

So... which one do you need: FA35001 or FA35011?

This is the part that confuses people: both part numbers can be associated with the same overall printhead family, but the exact suffix can vary by:

• production batch / revision

• region (ET vs L-series packaging)

• supplier channel (service parts vs distribution)

• minor internal updates that don't change the printer's compatibility in a practical way

In real-world repairs, the most reliable way to avoid ordering the wrong item is not to guess based on the printer name alone, because sellers sometimes list "compatible with ET-15000" on multiple revisions.

The best way to identify the correct printhead model (most accurate)

1) Read the code printed on your existing printhead (recommended)

If your printer is already open (or you can open it enough to view the printhead label), the printhead usually has an identifying code/label printed directly on it. That code is the best match reference because it reflects what your printer shipped with.

2) Match by the "printhead family" + your ET-15000 platform

For the ET-15000, you are typically in the FA3500x family-meaning FA35001 or FA35011 are the common targets.

If a listing clearly states compatibility across the same cluster (ET-15000 / ET-3700 / ET-3850 / L6160 / L6161 / L6171 / L6198), that's usually a strong indicator it's the correct family.

3) Confirm connector and FFC layout (important when buying aftermarket)

Many printhead problems are actually caused (or repeated) by the FFC cables not being seated correctly, damaged, or heat-marked. If you're purchasing an aftermarket or pulled printhead, you want to confirm:

• the connector positions match your original

• the FFC width/pitch matches

• the mounting points match

Even a correct "family" printhead can be made unusable if the cable pitch/layout differs.

Why Epson has multiple part numbers for "the same" printhead

Epson service parts often have part numbers that look like different heads, but in practice may represent:

• revised manufacturing run

• minor design iteration

• updated QA or packaging standard

So it's common to see both FA35001 and FA35011 referenced for the ET-15000 ecosystem.

A quick caution before replacing the printhead

If you're replacing a printhead due to clogging, missing colors, or a "dead head," keep in mind:

• If the original failure involved overheating, electrical short, or head temp errors, you should inspect the FFC cables carefully for burn marks or damaged traces before installing a replacement head.

• A damaged FFC can cause the replacement head to fail immediately or throw new errors.

(If you ever see error codes during startup after a head replacement, those codes matter-so always note them exactly as shown.)

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility: Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer to drop it off. Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage: BCH Technologies on YouTube (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

Thank you again for reaching out and for supporting BCH Technologies. I hope this clears up why you'll usually see FA35001 and FA35011 associated with the ET-15000 family and how to identify the correct printhead with confidence before ordering.