Why Is My New Epson Printhead Not Printing? Troubleshooting Guide for Colorless Prints

Question:

I just installed a new printhead in my printer. At first, a tiny bit of ink came through, but then it stopped. I’ve done multiple nozzle checks and power cleanings, but the color is coming out on the paper. I replaced the waste pump station and installed new dampers, but nothing seemed to help. I usually don’t have issues with new printheads, but this is my first time. Is it normal for a new printhead not to print right away?

Answer:

First, avoid power cleaning—here’s why:

Power cleaning is very harsh on your printhead. Even on new heads, repeated strong cleanings can cause permanent damage, especially if done back-to-back. If you must perform a strong cleaning, never do more than one every 12 hours. Let the printer rest between cycles to protect the nozzles.

Check these hardware components:

1. FFC Cable: Make sure the flexible flat cable that connects the printhead to the mainboard is seated properly and not damaged.

2. F1 Fuse: This fuse on the mainboard can blow during installation or surge, and if it does, the printhead won’t receive signals.

3. Mainboard Driver Chip: If the chip that controls the printhead is damaged, your new head won’t work regardless of how many times you clean it.

Verify your ink and damper system:

Even though you’ve replaced the dampers, check the ink flow from cartridges/tanks through the dampers. It’s a good idea to change to fresh ink or filter your current ink to eliminate clogs or sediment.

Capping Station Health Check:

Even though your capping station is new, you should double-check it:

• Is it sealing well against the printhead?

• Is it clogged internally?

• Is the vacuum pump drawing ink properly?

To test this, park the printhead on the capping station by turning the printer on and letting the head move naturally into position. Once it's parked, connect a syringe with a tube to the waste line. Draw 1.5–2 ml of air gently:

• If you feel only air, the seal might be broken.

• If you feel no suction at all, the capping station could be clogged.

• If you feel slight resistance, and hear the damper membrane crinkle, the printhead is likely primed and the nozzles are open.

Hold at 2 ml for 10 seconds to ensure the ink is flowing, then perform a normal cleaning cycle (not a power cleaning), and let the printer rest.

Helpful Videos for Capping Station Issues:

Here are a few video guides that walk you through the most common capping station problems:

• Removing and Installing the Capping Station (https://youtu.be/_cZEkmgIZYc)

• Unclogging the Capping Station (https://youtu.be/WbY_6O1-w2c)

• Capping Station Maintenance (https://youtu.be/5yjq3ZN0qv8)

• Repairing the Capping Station (https://youtu.be/5UC2IMu9V90)

• Rewiring Capping Station Tubes (https://youtu.be/J9im3s8UJfo)

• Troubleshooting Screeching Sound (https://youtu.be/MjArYM-QnfU)

• Extra Troubleshooting Screeching Sound (https://youtu.be/TNOG_1TtN6g)

If you want a full teardown and reassembly guide for the capping station, we’ve put together an exclusive video here:
Capping Station Assembly Guide – BCH Technologies
[https://bchtechnologies.com/products/video-capping-station-assemble-disassemble-guide-for-l1800-1390-artisan-1430-and-1400]

Tackling printer problems can be tricky, especially when they require hands-on testing and part replacement. Because of this, we’re unable to offer remote repair or one-on-one troubleshooting. However, we do provide in-person diagnostic and repair services at our local repair center. Visit our Printer Repair Service page (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) for more information. We work on a first-come, first-served basis and, due to high volume, it may take a few weeks before your unit is seen. Whether you need full printer servicing or help with specific parts, we offer structured repair options with clear next steps.

That said, we understand our service might not be the most cost-effective option. If you're looking to troubleshoot independently, we strongly recommend using our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon on our channel to look up specific issues or printer models—we’ve published hundreds of videos over the years, and this is the fastest way to find what you need. YouTube may also suggest helpful videos from other creators that address your problem.

Thanks again for your continued trust in BCH Technologies. We’re always here to help support your printing success!