How to Fix Epson ET-15000 Error 000031 and “Paper Out” When Paper Is Present

Customer Question:

My Epson ET-15000 printer is showing a 000031 error. It also gives a “Paper Out” message, even though the cassette has paper loaded. What can I do to fix these issues? I’m located in Charlotte and can bring the printer to your Greenville location if needed.

Answer:

Understanding Error Code 000031 on the Epson ET-15000

The 000031 error is typically classified as a “false paper jam” and usually indicates a mechanical issue related to the carriage assembly, timing, or belt alignment, not necessarily a real jam. Symptoms often include:

• A loud screeching or grinding noise

• A stuck printhead

• The carriage belt is visibly vibrating or off track

Though the error code doesn’t provide many details, here are the most effective ways to troubleshoot it:

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

1. Check for Real Paper Jams First

Even if it seems like a fake error, always start with the basics:

• Power off the printer and unplug it.

• Use a flashlight to inspect the entire paper path, including: carefully

  • Rear paper feeder

  • Output tray

  • Front cassette tray

  • Under the scanner bed

• Use compressed air to clear out any dust or debris.

2. Manually Move the Carriage

• With the printer unplugged, try gently sliding the printhead carriage.

• If it feels stuck or hits resistance, investigate any obstacles around the rails or the carriage path.

3. Inspect the Carriage Belt

• Examine the belt for:

  • Fraying

  • Misalignment

  • Signs it’s off the pulley

• Realign or tighten the belt if needed.

4. Examine the Capping Station

• The capping station may drag against the printhead if it's not retracting properly.

• Ensure it moves freely and does not obstruct the carriage.

5. Check the Printhead Lock

• On some units, the printhead lock lever can fall out of place, causing blockage.

• Make sure it’s not impeding the carriage’s movement.

6. Clean and Lubricate the Rails

• Dust or dry grease can cause excessive friction.

• Clean the rails with isopropyl alcohol and then apply light lubricant (such as white lithium grease).

7. Clean the Encoder Strip

• That thin, transparent strip behind the carriage indicates to the printer where the head is positioned.

• If it’s dirty or smudged, the printer may misinterpret head positioning.

• Carefully clean it with a lint-free cloth and alcohol.

8. Reset and Align the Carriage Mechanism

• Push the carriage to the right until it comes to a natural stop.

• Then gently bring it back to the left—it should click into its home position.

• This may reset the belt timing and clear the error.

9. Inspect the FFC Cable

• The Flat Flexible Cable (FFC) can become misaligned, or its plastic guides might be off.

• Ensure that any small plastic piece on the cable aligns with the crease or fold, as shown in the instructional video (https://www.youtube.com/@bchtechnologies).

About the “Paper Out” Error

This error may be linked to the same mechanical issue or be independent. Consider the following checks:

• Ensure the paper is loaded correctly, snugly touching the back of the tray and not skewed.

• Double-check that the paper type and source selected in the printer settings match the type and source loaded.

• Look inside the tray’s sensor area for any dislodged springs or misaligned parts—sometimes, a tray’s sensor might falsely trigger if the cassette isn’t fully seated.

• Try a hard reset: unplug the printer for 5 minutes, then restart it with the tray removed. Reinsert the tray once prompted.

Video Support

We recommend reviewing the BCH Technologies video on error 000031 (https://www.youtube.com/@bchtechnologies), which breaks down this error in detail. While the ET-15000 isn’t always explicitly featured, many of its principles also apply to other Epson EcoTank models.

In-Person Service Options

Dealing with printer issues often requires hands-on work and testing, which limits what we can help with remotely. That's why we don’t offer remote troubleshooting or repair advice.

However, we do offer in-person diagnostic and repair services at our Greenville facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Please note:

• Service is first-come, first-served.

• Wait times can be several weeks due to high volume.

• We offer repair of entire printers or specific parts, and provide detailed instructions.

• Our services may not be the most budget-friendly, so we recommend DIY fixes if you’re comfortable.

For those looking to troubleshoot on their own, check out our full library of videos on our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to the "About" tab to locate videos by topic. We’ve been producing videos for nearly a decade and may already have a tutorial for your exact issue. YouTube’s search algorithm can also suggest helpful content from other creators.

Thanks again for your question and your patience. We appreciate your continued support of BCH Technologies!