How to Fix a Severely Clogged Epson ET-8550 Printhead After Long-Term Inactivity

Question:

I have an Epson ET-8550 converted for DTF printing that's been unused for about eight months. The printhead is severely clogged. I tried pushing cleaning solution through the dampers using a syringe, but three colors won't allow any flow. I avoided too much pressure to prevent damage. I also disassembled the printhead and cleaned the plastic base using an ultrasonic cleaner. Is there a way to clean the printhead itself safely?

Answer:

Do Not Use Ultrasonic Cleaners on the ET-8550 Printhead

For your model, the Epson ET-8550, the ultrasonic cleaner should only be used on the printhead manifold-the plastic base that connects to the dampers-not the nozzle plate itself. The nozzle plate contains piezoelectric elements that are extremely delicate. Exposure to ultrasonic vibration can cause permanent internal damage. If the nozzle plate was placed in an ultrasonic cleaner, the printhead will likely need professional repair. BCH Technologies offers a printhead repair service where our technicians carefully open and restore the nozzles under a microscope.

Step 1: Try the Built-In Cleaning Function

Before using external tools or solutions, start with your printer's built-in cleaning cycle:

1. Run a standard cleaning cycle from your printer's maintenance menu.

2. Avoid running Power Clean more than once within a 12-hour window. Power Clean uses a strong vacuum that can overheat or damage the ink system if overused.

3. Let the printer rest between cleaning cycles to prevent ink over-saturation or overheating.

Step 2: Perform a Park and Prime Procedure

If cleaning cycles don't restore ink flow, try the Park and Prime method:

1. Park the printhead on the capping station by turning the printer on and allowing the printhead to return to its home position.

2. Prepare the priming setup: attach a syringe and tubing to the printer's waste line.

3. Draw gently about 4-6 ml of air through the line.

   • If you feel slight resistance, that's normal and means ink is starting to flow.

   • If you only draw air, the printhead may not be parked correctly, or the capping seal is leaking.

   • If you feel total resistance, the capping station might be clogged and needs cleaning.

4. Hold suction for about 10 seconds to stabilize nozzle flow.

5. After priming, run a regular cleaning cycle again.

This method gently encourages ink movement without applying pressure directly to the printhead nozzles, helping to clear mild-to-moderate clogs safely.

Step 3: Use Specialized Cleaning Solutions

If ink still won't flow, you can use cleaning solutions designed for DTF and pigment systems. BCH Technologies offers a range of options depending on severity:

• Clear Cleaning Solution: Mild and safe for general maintenance.

• Green Cleaning Solution: Stronger formula for stubborn dye, pigment, or sublimation clogs.

• Red Cleaning Solution: Heavy-duty cleaner for severe blockages. Use carefully and never leave it inside the printer for more than 24 hours.

• Premium DTF MaxStrength Cleaning Solution: Specifically engineered for DTF and DTG white ink systems, best for professional or last-resort use.

Each product listing on our BCH Technologies website (https://bchtechnologies.com) includes detailed instructions and compatible tools. You can also follow our video guides on the BCH Technologies YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies).

Step 4: When Cleaning Isn't Enough

If your printhead still doesn't recover after cleaning attempts, you may need professional restoration. BCH Technologies provides a Printhead Repair Service, which includes:

• Full disassembly and inspection

• Nozzle-by-nozzle cleaning under a microscope

• Electronic testing and resealing

• Reassembly and performance validation

This is a repair, not just a cleaning service. Once disassembled, printheads that cannot be restored cannot be returned in their original condition. You can view more information and sample pricing through our Printhead Repair Service page (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service).

With over 14 years of experience and 1,000-1,500 printheads refurbished annually, BCH Technologies provides trusted solutions for both professionals and individual users.

Addressing printer issues can be complex because they often require hands-on testing and visual inspection. Unfortunately, we can't provide remote repair or troubleshooting support. However, we do offer in-person evaluation and repair services at our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, service operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and wait times can be several weeks. Our repair options include full printer repairs or part-specific restoration.
If you prefer DIY repairs, we encourage exploring online resources, especially our BCH YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to "About" to find videos relevant to your printer model and issue. This method often yields quicker results and may show additional tips from the broader printing community.

Thank you once again for reaching out to BCH Technologies. We appreciate your patience and engagement. Your feedback and commitment to maintaining your printer help us continue providing better support and resources to the entire printing community.