Epson ET-8550 Continuous Ink Supply System (CISS) Installation - Why Ink May Not Be Flowing

Question:
After installing a Continuous Ink Supply System (CISS) on my Epson ET-8550, the ink is not flowing out. What could be causing this problem and how can I fix it?

Answer:

When ink doesn't flow after installing a CISS, it usually points to one of a few common causes. Here are the key areas to check:

1. Air Pressure and Priming Issues

   • CISS systems rely on balanced air pressure. If the system hasn't been properly primed, air pockets may be trapped in the tubing, blocking ink flow.

   • Solution: Before installing, the CISS cartridges and tubes should be pre-filled with ink using a syringe and priming tool. If not, you'll need to re-prime the system until you see ink consistently reaching the cartridge inlets.

2. Air Vent Plugs

   • Most CISS tanks have air vent plugs (small rubber stoppers) that must be removed during operation. If they remain sealed, the ink cannot flow out because of the vacuum effect.

   • Solution: Ensure the vent plugs are open during printing, and only the sealing plugs are closed when transporting or storing the system.

3. Cartridge Chip Recognition

   • If the printer does not properly recognize the CISS cartridges (chip failure or improper seating), it may block ink feeding even if the tubes are full.

   • Solution: Reseat the cartridges firmly in the ET-8550 printhead bay. If you're using an auto-reset chip, make sure it clicks into place. Sometimes powering the printer off and on again helps the printer re-detect the chips.

4. Tube Alignment and Kinks

   • The tubing must be free of bends, pinches, or obstructions. If the CISS tubes are too tight or bent, ink flow will stall.

   • Solution: Reposition the tubing so it has smooth curves and moves freely with the printhead carriage.

5. Printhead Suction Needed

   • Even with a primed CISS, the Epson ET-8550 may require several head cleanings or a power cleaning cycle to pull ink into the printhead.

   • Solution: Run 2-3 cleaning cycles, checking nozzle patterns each time. If ink still doesn't flow, recheck for air gaps or re-prime the system manually.

6. Clogged Printhead

   • If the printer sat idle before the CISS installation, dried ink may block the nozzles and prevent the new ink from passing through.

   • Solution: Perform a printhead cleaning cycle. For severe clogs, flushing fluid may be required.

Addressing printer issues can be complicated since they require hands-on troubleshooting. For this reason, we're unable to provide remote repair support. However, we do offer an in-person diagnostic and repair service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Please note that this service is on a first-come, first-served basis, and due to high demand, it can take a few weeks before your printer can be serviced. We handle both complete printer repairs and part-specific services, with clear instructions on how to proceed. That said, our pricing is not always the most economical, so many customers prefer to start with self-repair. A great way to learn more is by searching our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to the "About" tab to find CISS installation and troubleshooting videos, or explore related suggestions that YouTube may provide from other repair channels.

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