How to Fix a Phantom Paper Jam on the Epson ET-15000: Troubleshooting Guide for False Paper Jam Errors

Question

My Epson ET-15000 keeps showing a paper jam error, but I’ve thoroughly checked and there’s no paper stuck anywhere. Could this be a false alarm? What can I do to fix this?

Answer

What Is a Phantom Paper Jam?

A “phantom” paper jam is when your printer reports a paper jam error despite no visible or physical obstruction. On the Epson EcoTank ET-15000, this can result from several issues, including:

• Dirty or misaligned paper sensors

• Tiny fragments of paper or labels stuck in hard-to-see areas

• Smudges or dust on the encoder strip

• Hardware miscommunication or logic board issues

• Problems in the duplexing unit or paper feed gears

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Epson ET-15000 Phantom Paper Jam

Step 1: Power Cycle the Printer

Start with a soft reset:

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Unplug it from the wall outlet.

3. Wait for at least 1–2 minutes.

4. Plug it back in and power it on.

This clears any temporary software bugs or false flags that could be causing the paper jam error.

Step 2: Inspect All Paper Paths

Check every possible route where paper travels:

• Rear feed slot

• Paper output tray

• Under the scanner lid

• Duplexer at the back

Look closely for:

• Torn bits of paper or labels

• Foreign objects

• Dust or ink buildup

Use a flashlight for better visibility. Even a small obstruction can falsely trigger a jam.

Step 3: Clean the Sensors and Encoder Strip

The ET-15000 uses multiple sensors to detect paper movement:

• Paper feed sensor: Located near the rear input tray.

• Encoder strip: A transparent plastic strip that runs horizontally behind the carriage.

To clean:

• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol.

• Gently wipe the encoder strip—don’t scratch it!

• Clean around rollers and visible sensors.

Even light dust or ink mist can lead to misreadings.

Step 4: Check the Printhead Movement

Turn the printer on and observe the printhead:

• Does it move freely from left to right?

• Is it stopping midway?

A jammed or obstructed carriage path may cause a false jam detection. Check to make sure there are no cables, dried ink globs, or other objects preventing the head from moving.

Step 5: Run a Maintenance Test

You can use the printer’s internal tools to trigger a feed mechanism check:

• Load plain paper.

• Go to Settings > Maintenance > Print Nozzle Check or Print Test Page.

If the test fails and gives a paper jam error again, this suggests a sensor malfunction.

Step 6: Remove and Inspect the Duplexer

A typical hidden cause is the duplexing unit:

• Detach the duplexer from the back.

• Inspect for small paper fragments or gear misalignment.

• Reinstall it carefully, and make sure it's fully seated.

A loose or tilted duplexer can mislead the system into reporting a jam.

Still Getting the Error?

If none of these steps resolve the issue, the problem could be internal:

• Faulty or misfiring paper sensor

• Damaged logic board

• Corrupt printer firmware

These issues typically require a hands-on repair approach. If you are located nearby, BCH Technologies offers evaluation and repair services, or you can ship the printer to us.

Important Note on Printer Support

Due to the hands-on nature of the repairs, addressing printer issues can be complex. As a result, we are unable to provide remote diagnostics or step-by-step troubleshooting support. However, we do offer in-person repair services at our diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Repairs are conducted on a first-come, first-served basis and may require several weeks, depending on current demand. We handle full printer evaluations or targeted repairs on specific components.

Please note that our service rates may not be the most budget-friendly. If you prefer a DIY approach, we recommend starting with our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search function near the “About” tab to find relevant videos. With nearly a decade of content, it’s difficult to recall every video, so searching by keyword is the fastest method. YouTube may even suggest videos from other channels that could be helpful.

Thanks again for contacting us. We truly appreciate your patience and support. We hope this guide helps you get back to printing smoothly!