Should You Leave an Epson 1390 DTF Printer On to Prevent Printhead Clogs?

Question:
When modifying an Epson 1390 into a DTF printer, if the machine is left on, won't it perform automatic head cleanings every 12 hours or so, drawing ink into the waste tank and potentially wasting fluid?

Answer:

When it comes to the Epson 1390 modified for DTF printing, here's how the automatic cleaning system works and what you should know:

1. Automatic Cleaning Cycles

Yes, Epson printers will trigger periodic cleaning cycles if left powered on for extended periods. These cycles are designed to prevent ink from drying in the nozzles. Typically, the printer will run an automatic cleaning about every 12 hours, which does consume ink and sends it to the waste tank.

2. Impact on Ink Usage

While this process helps prevent clogs, it does result in ink waste, particularly when the printer is idle for days. However, with dye-based inks (as are often used for the Epson 1390's modified white channels), the risk of clogging is lower compared to pigment-based inks. Epson's original cleaning program was designed for dye ink and is effective at maintaining nozzle health. For this reason, short-term idling with the printer left on (less than a week) is usually not problematic.

3. Best Practices for Idle Periods

• For short idle times (under a week): Leaving the printer on is acceptable and may even be beneficial, as the cleaning cycles will keep the head moist and prevent clogs.

• For longer idle times (vacations or weeks of inactivity): It's better to shut the printer down. Before doing so, you can fill the capping station with a wetter maintenance solution to keep the printhead sealed and hydrated. This helps prevent dried ink buildup without wasting large amounts of ink in cleaning cycles.

• Always monitor the waste ink pad or external waste ink tank. If the cleaning cycles run often, make sure your waste system is not clogged or full, as this could cause overflow issues.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. That's why we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We do, however, offer in-person evaluations and repair services at our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Because of high demand, this service is first-come, first-served, and it may take a few weeks before we can check in your printer. Our service can cover full units or specific components, with clear instructions on how to proceed. That said, we know our rates may not be the most economical, so we encourage you to take advantage of self-help resources first. A great place to begin is our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Using the search icon next to "About" on the menu bar is the fastest way to find relevant tutorials, and YouTube may also recommend videos from other creators that can help.

Thank you again for your thoughtful question and for supporting BCH Technologies. We hope this gives you confidence in managing your Epson 1390 DTF setup, whether idling for short periods or preparing for longer downtime.