Understanding External Waste Ink Tanks and Printer Ink Pad Counters

Question:
If I connect an external waste ink tank, will it consume the same amount of ink as when using the internal tank? I also noticed that the counter still runs-does this mean there's no sensor in the printer's waste ink pad? Can waste ink be recycled or reused? Finally, is it possible to connect the internal pad to another pad to help drain any leftover waste ink?

Answer:

1. Ink Consumption with an External Waste Tank

Yes, your printer will consume the same amount of ink whether it's using the internal waste ink pad or an external waste tank. The waste ink system doesn't control or alter how much ink the printer uses-it simply collects residual ink expelled during cleaning cycles, priming, or head flushing. The printer's firmware determines the amount of ink used for these maintenance routines, so connecting an external tank won't reduce ink consumption. The advantage of using an external tank is that it prevents overflow inside the printer and makes maintenance much easier since you can visually monitor the waste ink level.

2. Why the Counter Still Runs

Many users notice that even after installing an external tank, the waste ink counter continues to increase. This is because most Epson and Canon printers don't have physical sensors to detect the ink level inside the waste pad. Instead, the printer uses a software-based estimation system that tracks cleaning cycles and calculates when the internal pad would likely become saturated.
So, even with an external tank installed, the printer's logic board still assumes ink is going into the internal pad and continues counting. Eventually, it will display a "Service Required - Waste Ink Pad Full" message. When that happens, you'll need to reset the waste ink counter using either the printer's built-in maintenance menu (for some models) or a software utility tool.

3. Can Waste Ink Be Recycled or Reused?

Unfortunately, waste ink cannot be reused or recycled for printing. Once ink is expelled during cleaning cycles, it's mixed with air, cleaning fluid, and residue from old pigment or dye particles. This mixture is unstable and can easily clog the printhead if reintroduced into the ink system. The purpose of the waste ink tank is purely to contain this contaminated fluid safely, not to recover it. Always dispose of waste ink responsibly-preferably by sealing it in absorbent material before discarding, in accordance with local environmental regulations.

4. Connecting the Internal Pad to Another Drain Pad

Yes, it's technically possible to connect the internal waste ink outlet to an external pad or tank, and that's exactly how most external waste systems are designed. The key is to redirect the drain tube coming from the printer's pump assembly into an external container. However, make sure that the tubing is positioned properly to avoid backflow or kinking, as any blockage could cause internal leakage.
If you choose to extend the internal pad's drainage system, ensure that the new pad or tank is securely positioned lower than the printer base, allowing gravity to help drain the ink efficiently. Adding a small vent hole in the container's cap can also prevent pressure buildup, ensuring smooth ink flow.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, 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 note that, due to high demand, service operates on a first-come, first-served basis and may take a few weeks before we can examine your printer. We handle both full-unit and part-specific repairs, with clear instructions for each process. However, we understand that our pricing may not be the most economical, so we highly recommend exploring self-help resources online. You can start by visiting our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and using the search icon next to "About" to find videos that match your issue. With over nine years of tutorial content, searching directly by keywords is often the fastest and most effective way to find help-even from other creators who may have covered similar fixes.

Thank you again for your thoughtful question and for supporting BCH Technologies. Your curiosity and engagement play a vital role in helping us share more practical knowledge with printer owners everywhere.