How to Fix Phantom Paper Jam and Initialization Freezing After Head Cleaning in Epson Printers

Question:
After replacing my printer's damper, I was able to print about 20 sheets without any problems. The next day, I performed a routine printhead cleaning and printed a nozzle check. However, after turning the printer off and back on again, it began running endlessly and then displayed a phantom paper jam error. It seems to be stuck during the initialization process. I suspect the paper ejection (PE) sensor might be dirty, but I couldn't find a video on your YouTube channel showing how to replace it. Do you have any advice or troubleshooting tips?

Answer:

Now, regarding your situation-based on your description, the issue likely isn't caused by the paper ejection (PE) sensor but rather by the page width (PW) sensor located underneath the printhead carriage. This sensor plays a critical role in detecting the paper's presence and alignment. When it gets wet, it can send false signals that confuse the printer's logic system, leading to a phantom paper jam or causing the printer to get stuck during initialization.

Here's what's likely happening:

1. Moisture from the Cleaning Process - During heavy printhead cleanings, especially if fluid or ink splashes underneath the carriage, the PW sensor becomes damp. This interferes with its infrared signal, preventing it from communicating properly with the printer's mainboard.

2. Phantom Paper Jam Error - When the PW sensor cannot send a proper "paper clear" signal, the printer assumes a jam exists even when no paper is present.

3. Initialization Freeze - Because the printer awaits a valid response from the sensor, it keeps running its initialization cycle, appearing as though it's frozen.

Recommended Fixes:

• Dry the PW Sensor: Power off the printer completely and let it sit unplugged for several hours or overnight to allow any internal moisture to evaporate. Avoid using high heat; instead, you can use a small fan or gentle airflow.

• Inspect for Residue: If ink or cleaning solution has dripped under the printhead, carefully wipe the area around the PW sensor using lint-free wipes and isopropyl alcohol (at least 90% concentration). Be gentle-excess pressure can misalign the sensor.

• Avoid Over-Cleaning: Frequent deep cleanings can push ink mist or cleaning solution into sensitive areas. Try to perform lighter cleanings more frequently instead of multiple deep cycles back-to-back.

• Check PE Sensor Afterward: Once the PW sensor is dry and functional, if you still get a jam error, inspect the PE sensor near the paper feed exit. Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove dust or dried ink buildup.

• Power Reset: After cleaning and drying, unplug the printer for 10-15 minutes, then restart it. This allows the mainboard to reset sensor calibration data.

If the problem persists even after the sensor dries, there's a small chance that the sensor's wiring or logic board has been affected by moisture. In that case, you might need to replace the PW sensor cable or module.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we aren't able to provide remote troubleshooting or direct repair support. However, we do offer an in-person diagnostic and repair service through our local facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Please note that due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it might take a few weeks to process drop-offs. We can service either the entire printer or specific parts, depending on your situation.

If you prefer a do-it-yourself approach, we strongly recommend checking out our YouTube channel's homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to "About" to find videos related to your specific issue, such as "PW sensor" or "phantom paper jam." After nine years of publishing tutorials, that's the fastest way to locate what you need-and YouTube's algorithm might also recommend other helpful videos from the community.

Thank you once again for your patience, support, and trust in BCH Technologies. We truly appreciate your dedication to maintaining your printer and being part of our growing community of knowledgeable users.