Epson ET-4550 Waste Ink Bypass Setup: Choosing the Right Kit and Reset Options

Customer Question 

I have an Epson ET-4550 printer, and I’m looking to order a waste ink bypass kit, but I can’t find a listing specifically for this model on your website. What part should I get? Also, what is the correct hose diameter for the waste ink bottle connection on the ET-4550?

Answer

Which Waste Ink Kit is Compatible with the Epson ET-4550?

Great question—and one we get often because the ET series isn’t always clearly labeled in our listings. For your Epson ET-4550, either the 2.5 mm or 4.0 mm waste ink bypass kit will work, thanks to the versatility of the connector included in our kits.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Your printer’s waste ink output tube has a diameter of 2.5 mm.

• Internal tubing dimensions label our kits, so you’ll see them marked as 2.5 mm or 4.0 mm, which refers to the size of the silicone tubing that connects to the bottle.

• The dual-head connector included in both kits supports:

  • A 2.5 mm connection for the printer end.

  • An output that allows either 2.5 mm or 4.0 mm tubing to the waste bottle.

So, in summary:

• If you want a tighter fit with slimmer tubing, go for the 2.5 mm kit (https://bchtechnologies.com).

• If you prefer more robust tubing that’s easier to handle, the 4.0 mm kit (https://bchtechnologies.com) will also work, thanks to the universal connector.

If the SKU or product title only says “25 mm” or “40 mm,” don’t worry—that's shorthand for 2.5 mm and 4.0 mm tubing, respectively. We’re working on more explicit product labeling, but both options are fully compatible with your ET-4550.

Do I Need to Reset the Waste Ink Counter?

Yes, absolutely. Installing the external waste ink tank (the bottle) is only half of the solution. Your printer keeps a digital counter of how much waste ink it believes it has absorbed, and it will eventually display an error like “Service Required” when that counter reaches its limit.

To reset this counter:

• Use software tools like Inkchip.net (https://inkchip.net/wic) or WICreset.

• We recommend Inkchip due to its clean user interface and ease of use.

• With these tools, you’ll be able to reset the waste ink counter electronically using your PC.

Important Note: If your Epson ET-4550 (or similar model) is equipped with a waste ink tank that includes a chip, then software resets may not work. In that case:

• You’ll need to identify the waste tank model number and locate a physical chip resetter that’s compatible with it.

• These models are rarer, but we’ve seen them in some newer variants and certain international releases.

Final Note

Printer modifications like waste ink bypass kits are deeply mechanical, and we understand that not everyone is comfortable performing them without guidance. Since these are hands-on upgrades, we cannot offer direct remote troubleshooting or support. However, we provide in-person diagnostics and repair services at our local repair center (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and wait times can be a few weeks. If our service costs exceed your budget, we strongly encourage DIY research. Start by visiting our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and use the search icon (next to the "About" tab) to look for relevant videos. We’ve built a large video library over the last nine years, and you might find the exact walkthrough you need—or get directed to helpful videos from other creators.

Thanks again for reaching out, and for being part of our growing community. We’re always here to help you get the most out of your printer—keep the questions coming!