Before you start
- A4 plain paper, sufficient ink and no active printer error. Cleaning consumes ink; low ink may prevent it.
Step 1:Print a nozzle pattern before cleaning
Use the linked nozzle-check guide: load A4 plain paper, switch the printer off, then hold Stop while switching on and release when Power flashes. Inspect every line group. If all lines are complete, cleaning is not needed. The main source describes its own pattern as complete; that is not evidence of a clog being repaired.
Step 2:Hold Stop for five seconds
For some missing lines, leave the printer on and hold Stop for five seconds, until the power light begins flashing. Release Stop and allow the cleaning to finish. Keep the printer closed and do not switch off or unplug it during the cycle.
Wait until Power stops flashing. Print another nozzle check and compare it with the first. A complete pattern is the result to look for; simply hearing the printer run does not confirm success.
Step 3:Pause if three check-and-clean cycles do not help
If quality has not improved after three nozzle-check and cleaning attempts, wait at least 12 hours without printing. Epson recommends switching off with Power. Then check the nozzles again and clean only if needed. Do not turn repeated cleaning into a daily routine.
Step 4:Use the documented next step only when indicated
Epson documents Power Cleaning when most nozzles are missing, or when ordinary cleaning and the 12-hour wait have not improved the pattern. It uses more ink than ordinary cleaning.
In the Epson Windows printer driver, open Maintenance → Head Cleaning → Power Cleaning, then follow the prompts. This requires Epson’s driver, not only a generic printer entry. If quality still does not improve, wait at least another 12 hours without printing before checking again. Follow the pattern and Epson’s guidance; contact Epson support if the problem remains. Do not substitute solvents or an unsupported manual flush.
Questions & troubleshooting
Can I use Epson Smart Panel?
The supporting source opens Print Head Cleaning in an already connected Smart Panel app and confirms the operation. It reports insufficient ink, so the clip is not proof of a successful completed clean. The same nozzle check and waiting limits still apply.
Will cleaning fix every colour difference?
No. If the nozzle pattern is complete, check document and paper settings instead of using more ink on cleaning.
