Troubleshooting Epson L1800 DTF Printhead Issues After Manual Cleaning: White Ink Not Printing and Vacuum Pull

Question:
I’ve been using an Epson L1800 converted for DTF printing, and everything was mostly fine except for some missing lines in black. I decided to clean the printhead manually. After reassembly, my white ink stopped printing completely, although there appears to be a vacuum pull. What does this mean, and do you offer services to repair the printhead?

Answer:
Understanding the Issue

Let’s break down what’s likely happening with your Epson L1800:

1. The Black Ink Was Missing Lines:

   • This suggests you were dealing with a partial clog in the black channel, which is usually resolvable through gentle cleaning cycles or flushing using a cleaning solution.

   • Manual printhead cleaning, while effective in some cases, carries the risk of introducing more severe clogs or disrupting internal vacuum pressure if not performed with precision.

2. White Ink Not Printing and a “Vacuum Pull” Exists:

   • When you feel suction (a vacuum pull) from the white channel but no ink comes out, this usually indicates a severe clog.

   • The fact that there is suction is helpful—it shows the damper system and capping station are functioning, and the blockage is likely within the printhead itself.

Likely Causes and Solutions

1. Clogged Manifold (Hopeful Scenario):

• If the clog is limited to the manifold (the ink inlet port section attached to the printhead), you're in luck.

• You can open the printhead by removing the three screws that hold the manifold in place. Once opened, thoroughly clean the manifold with a cleaning solution and, if available, an ultrasonic cleaner.

• Avoid using force or pins as they can damage internal membranes and permanently disable the nozzle array.

2. Deep Internal Clog (Less Hopeful):

• If you've already cleaned the manifold and are still experiencing a vacuum pull but no ink output, it's likely that the nozzle channels themselves are completely clogged.

• This type of clog can sometimes be relieved with specialized soaking and ultrasonic treatments; however, it often signifies that the printhead is no longer salvageable through conventional methods.

Do We Offer a Printhead Repair Service?

We understand the desire to send the printhead in for evaluation. However, we currently do not offer standalone printhead cleaning or repair services by mail. Our repair services are limited to full printers or specific components and require in-person evaluation at our facility.

Important Note:
Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're unable to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility [https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service]. Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, it may take a few weeks before we can arrange for your printer to drop it off. Our services are structured to repair either the whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage [https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies]. Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be the most efficient approach. Additionally, YouTube may suggest relevant videos from other channels that can assist you.