How to Fix Epson ET-2850 Reset E-11 Ink Pad Needs Service Error

Question:
I'm using an Epson ET-2850 and received the E-11 error code: "Ink Pad Needs Service." I saw a video that explains resetting the counter, but it says replacement won't work. Will this reset method work on the ET-2850? Also, if I reset it once, will I need to buy another key after printing another 100 ml of ink?

Answer:
Thank you for contacting us, and I apologize for not being able to get back to you sooner. I completely understand the urgency-especially when your printer stops working at the exact moment you need it most. At BCH Technologies, we take every question seriously and want to provide as much detail as possible. We're also grateful for your engagement and support, particularly with our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Your feedback is very important to us and helps us expand our technical expertise for the entire community.

Now, regarding your Epson ET-2850 and the E-11 "Ink Pad Needs Service" error:

1. What the E-11 Error Means

The E-11 error is triggered when the printer's waste ink pad counter reaches its limit. Epson uses this system to prevent ink overflow because, during cleanings and purges, waste ink is directed into an internal pad or tank. Once the printer believes the pad is full, it locks itself to avoid leakage or damage.

2. Will a Reset Key Work for the ET-2850?

For some Epson models, you can use third-party reset keys (like those from inkchip.net) to electronically reset the waste ink counter. However, in the ET series-especially newer models like the ET-2850-Epson often ties the waste ink system to a chip embedded in the tank unit. If that's the case, an electronic reset won't work, and you would need to replace the waste ink tank assembly itself.

You can check sites like inkchip.net (https://inkchip.net) by searching for your exact model. If no reset utility is available for the ET-2850, then replacement is likely your only option.

3. Do You Need to Buy Multiple Keys?

If the reset option is supported for your printer, yes-you would typically need to purchase a new reset key each time the waste ink counter reaches its limit again. Reset keys are one-time use codes, and Epson's firmware doesn't allow reusing the same one. Depending on usage, you may hit this limit again after another large cycle of maintenance purges or approximately another 100 ml of waste ink accumulation.

4. Replacement vs. Reset

• Resetting electronically: Works only if the printer is supported by third-party software and keys. It clears the counter but does not physically empty the waste tank. If the tank is actually full, ink can overflow.

• Replacing the waste ink tank: The official Epson method. Since newer EcoTank models often tie the counter to a chip inside the tank, this ensures both the counter resets and the physical container is swapped out.

If you need to print urgently today and can find a working reset for your ET-2850, that might buy you time. However, the long-term solution is to replace the waste ink tank to prevent messy leaks.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We do offer in-person evaluation and repair services through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Please keep in mind that we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before your printer can be processed. Our services cover either complete printers or specific parts, with clear guidance on how to proceed. Since our rates may not be the most economical, we highly recommend exploring self-help options through online resources. A great place to start is our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies), where you can use the search icon next to the "About" section to quickly locate videos on specific issues.

Thank you again for reaching out to us and for supporting BCH Technologies. We hope this explanation gives you clarity and a reliable path forward for dealing with the ET-2850's E-11 error.