Extreme Unclogging for Epson WorkForce WF-3640: Fixing 0x97 and 0xEA Errors and Cleaning Best Practices

Customer Question:

In your video Extreme Unclog Epson Printhead WorkForce WF-3640 Fix 0x97 0xEA Error (watch on YouTube), why do you recommend not running more than three cleaning cycles at a time? What would happen if I keep cleaning repeatedly?

Answer:

Why Only Clean Three Times?

When dealing with persistent clogging on Epson WorkForce WF-3640 or similar models, it might seem intuitive to keep running cleaning cycles until the nozzles are clear. However, running more than three consecutive cleanings is not recommended for several technical reasons:

1. Thermal Stress on the Printhead:
   Epson printheads are precision instruments that use heat to fire ink droplets. Continuous cleaning cycles generate thermal stress, which can lead to overheating. This stress doesn't just reduce performance—it could cause permanent damage to the printhead.

2. Ink Waste and Absorber Overload:
   Each cleaning cycle uses a significant amount of ink. Excessive cleaning fills the ink absorber pad (or maintenance box) quickly. Once full, the printer may refuse to operate until the pad is replaced or reset—an inconvenient and sometimes costly process.

3. Firmware-Triggered Cleaning Lockdown:
   Most importantly, Epson firmware includes a cleaning counter. After a certain number of cleanings in a short span, the printer may assume the printhead is permanently damaged. When this threshold is triggered:

   • You may only be allowed to perform one last cleaning.

   • Deep cleaning options are disabled.

   • The printer might display error code 0x97, indicating internal hardware failure, or 0xEA, suggesting issues with carriage movement or obstruction, both of which can be firmware responses to aggressive cleaning behavior.

To avoid this, follow a structured cleaning schedule:

Recommended Cleaning Schedule

Day One:

• Perform the cleaning function three times, or until you get a perfect nozzle check.

• Please turn off the printer and let it rest for at least 10 minutes.

• Turn it back on and clean up to three more times.

• If the result is still imperfect, wait 12 hours before continuing.

Day Two:

• Repeat the same process: three cleanings, rest, then three more.

• If the nozzle check is still poor, it’s time to escalate to advanced solutions or contact us directly.

Note: A few missing lines on the nozzle check may be acceptable, but strive for a perfect check. Print at least one page per day to prevent clogs.

Using the printer’s built-in cleaning utility found under:

Settings → Maintenance → Print Head Cleaning

...ensures you are operating within Epson’s designed safety limits.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're unable to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, it may take a few weeks before we can arrange for your printer to drop it off. Our services are structured to repair either the 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 (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 the most efficient approach. Additionally, YouTube may suggest relevant videos from other channels that can assist you.

Thanks again for contacting us and for your continued support. We hope this helps you navigate your Epson WF-3640 issues more confidently.