While Epson printers are known for their accessibility and user-friendliness, occasional issues may arise. We've compiled a helpful resource of common Epson printer problems and solutions to assist printer owners like you in resolving basic printer issues.

This guide will cover the top 8 common Epson printer problems and solutions:

  1. Printer Not Printing/Responding
  2. Printer Offline
  3. Paper Jams
  4. Poor Print Quality
  5. Can't Print via Phone/iPad
  6. Noisy Printer
  7. Printer Printing Slow
  8. Scanner Not Working

Epson Printer Troubleshooting: Initial Checks and Quick Fixes

If you're having trouble with printing, begin by thinking about these simple checks. They can help you find and fix common problems quickly:

  • Power and Connectivity
    Make sure your printer is turned on and connected correctly.
  • Cable Check
    Ensure that all cables are working and securely plugged in tightly where they should be. If you connected your product to a USB hub, ensure it's a top-tier hub. If the issue persists, connect your product directly to your computer.
  • Network Connection Check
    Ensure your Epson printer is properly connected to Wi-Fi and receiving strong internet signals. Remove obstacles, like wood or metal objects, between the printer and Wi-Fi router that can weaken the signal.
  • Paper and Supplies
    See if there's enough paper in the printer and if the ink or toner is not running out. Ensure ink or toner is installed properly.
  • Run Epson Printer Troubleshooting Function
    To easily diagnose the issue, you can use the Epson printer troubleshooting function. Just go to Settings, then click on Update & Security. After that, choose Troubleshoot and follow the directions on the screen.
  • Status Indicator
    Another way is by checking on the lights on the printer – they might blink or act strangely if something's wrong.

Click to see different common Epson status lights and solutions:

Light is On

Maintenance Box Light

The maintenance box has either reached the end of its service life or hasn't been installed. To fix this, press the black cleaning and color cleaning buttons together to remove the error. After that, put in a new maintenance box or replace the current one.

Paper Light
  • The printer might be out of paper. Add more paper to the cassette or rear MP tray, then press the paper feed button to proceed.
  • If more than one sheet of paper has been fed, press the paper feed button to remove the extra paper.
  • If the chosen paper size doesn't match the available paper sizes, press the paper feed button to fix the error. This time, select the correct paper size.
  • It's possible the paper cassette isn't installed. Install the cassette if this is the case. Once done, press the paper feed button.
Ink Out Light

An ink cartridge is used up or not properly installed. Swap out the mentioned cartridge. Ensure the cartridge is installed correctly.

Orange Wifi Light

There's a problem with the Wi-Fi connection. Press the Wi-Fi button to fix the issue and try connecting again.

Light is Flashing

Power Light

The printer is currently busy. Wait for the power light to stop flashing before turning off the printer. Once done, try connecting again.

Maintenance Box Light

The maintenance box is getting close to its service life limit. Ensure you have a replacement maintenance box ready.

Paper Light

The paper is stuck inside the printer. Look in the cassette, printer interior, and duplexer to remove the jammed paper. Once done, press the paper feed button to resolve the error.

Power and Paper Light

Close the printer's front cover.

Ink Out

An ink cartridge is running low. Ensure you have a replacement cartridge ready.

Ink Out Yellow Light

Failed firmware update, and the printer is in recovery mode. Go to Epson's support website for guidance on redoing the firmware update.

All Lights

The printer has an error. Look in the cassette, inside the printer, and in the duplexer to clear paper jams. Turn off the printer, then turn it on. If the error persists, contact Epson support.


Top 8 Common Epson Printer Problems and Solutions

If your Epson printer isn't working despite initial checks, check other issues below and the troubleshooting steps.

1. Epson Printer Not Printing/Responding

Antivirus Interference

An antivirus is a crucial program that keeps your device safe. But sometimes, it might make things not work. To check if that's happening, try turning off the firewall and see if the printer starts working. If it does, then the antivirus could be the problem.


Paper Jams

If there's a paper jam, the printer might not respond. To learn how to fix it, look at the instructions for dealing with paper jams in point #3 Paper Jam issue below.


Printer Not Set as Default

This often happens when you switch between different printers for printing tasks. Follow the steps below to set your preferred printer as default.

windows logo  Windows:
  1. Step 1: Click Start, and then Settings.
  2. Step 2: Next, for Windows 10, select Devices. For Windows 11, select Bluetooth & Devices.
  3. Step 3: Select Printers & Scanners. Choose your preferred printer (if you have multiple), then pick Set as default. If you don't see the Set as default option, choose the Let Windows manage my default printer option instead.
apple logo  Mac:
  1. Step 1: Click on Apple menu, then go to System Settings, and choose Printers & Scanners (you might need to scroll down).
  2. Step 2: In the Printers & Scanners, control-click a printer in the printer list, then choose Set Default Printer from the shortcut menu.

Outdated Printer Driver

If your printer's drivers are outdated or corrupted, the printer won't function properly. This can lead to difficulties in connecting your computer to the printer, causing problems. To learn how to update the printer driver, refer to the comprehensive instructions in our guide on Printer Driver Problems.


Stuck Print Jobs

Print jobs that are stuck can make a printer not respond to a print command by creating a jam in the print queue. Clearing these jobs fixes the problem and brings back regular printing.

windows logo  Windows:
  1. Step 1: Search "printer" in the Windows search bar and pick Printer & scanners.
  2. Step 2: Click your printer, then choose Open print queue.
  3. Step 3: Find your listed documents, select each, click Document, and choose Cancel to remove them.
apple logo  Mac:
  1. Step 1: Click on Apple menu, then go to System Settings, and choose Printers & Scanners.
  2. Step 2: From the list, select the active printer, and click the Open Print Queue button.
  3. Step 3: Pick the print job you want to cancel, and click the X.
  4. Step 4: To clear everything, either press "Command + A" keyboard keys then "Command + delete", or click "Printer" in the menu and choose Cancel All Documents.

2. Epson Printer Offline

If your printer is still offline even after the initial checking, the issue below might be the reason:

Printer Configuration Problems

  1. Printer Configuration Needs Refreshing.
    Remove and reconnect your printer back to the computer to refresh the printer configuration.
  2. Printer Not Set as Default.
    Make sure your printer is set as the default printer on your computer. Sometimes, printer offline issues occur because the wrong printer is selected.
  3. Printer is in Offline Mode.
    If the Use Printer Offline mode is on, your computer won't try to talk to the printer for printing. Go to the Printers & scanners option in your computer's Settings menu to make sure your Epson printer is not in the Offline mode.

For in-depth explanation and step-by-step troubleshooting instructions, check this guide: Printer Configuration Problems.


Print Queue Problems

  1. Stuck Print Jobs.
    Print jobs that are stuck can lead to a printer going offline. This happens because they create a sort of traffic jam in the print queue. To resolve this issue, you need to clear these stuck print jobs.
  2. Printing Queue Manager Needs Resetting.
    Windows and Mac use a service to manage print queues, and sometimes it can run into errors or stop working. This can lead to piled-up print jobs and new ones getting stuck, causing the printer to go offline.

For in-depth explanation and step-by-step troubleshooting instructions, check this guide: Print Queue Problems.


Printer Driver Issue

If your printer driver is outdated, corrupted, or incompatible with the operating system, it can't receive commands or print, making it go offline. Updating the driver fixes this and gets the printer working right. Check our comprehensive guide on Printer Driver Issues for more details

For an in-depth explanation of why printers go offline, read this guide: How to Fix Printer Offline Problems on Windows and Mac.

3. Epson Printer Paper Jam

Paper jams are often caused by issues like damaged rollers, using incompatible paper, improper loading, open printer doors, or hardware damage.

  1. Step 1: Turn off and unplug the printer. Cancel all print jobs and ensure the printer is off at the plug.
  2. Step 2: Remove all paper from the tray and reload it correctly. Incorrect paper loading is a common cause of jams. If there are stuck papers, slowly remove each sheet to prevent printer damage.
  3. Step 3: After confirming no tray jams, stack the remaining paper neatly, ensuring it's securely inserted into the feeding slot.
  4. Step 4: Open the rear access door and ensure the rollers are clear of paper scraps. If there is, avoid pulling paper forcefully to not damage the printer. Check if rollers move freely and are debris-free. If dirty, clean gently using a damp towel.
  5. Step 5: Once done, close the doors and restart the printer for a test run. This should help fix the issue.

Prevent paper jams by:

  • Loosening the ream of paper before loading
  • Not overloading the printer with paper
  • Using compatible paper for printer
  • Avoiding print job interruptions
  • Only fill the paper tray when empty
  • Properly aligning paper
  • Storing paper in a cool, dry place
  • Maintaining printer cleanliness
  • Keeping ink in good condition

4. Epson Poor Print Quality

Before anything else, check if you have enough ink or toner. Low ink levels can often cause bad printing results.

a. Horizontal Lines (Banding)

If your prints have lines across them, try these solutions.

  • Put the paper with the writing side up in the feeder.
  • Clean ink nozzles by running the Head Cleaning utility.
  • Align print head by running print head alignment utility for proper printing.
  • Reset settings to default if needed.
  • Avoid using Maximum as the Printable Area. When this setting is enabled, there might be streaks in the larger print area.
  • Check that the paper type you choose in the printer software matches the type of paper you have loaded.
  • If applicable, enable MicroWeave in the Advanced settings.

b. Vertical Misalignment or Bands

If your prints have uneven lines or bands, here's what you can do.

  • Put the paper with the writing side up in the feeder.
  • Align print head by running print head alignment utility for proper printing.
  • Clean ink nozzles by running the Head Cleaning utility.
  • Remove the checkmark from the High Speed option in the Advanced settings.
  • Check that the paper type you choose in the printer software matches the type of paper you have loaded.
  • If applicable, enable MicroWeave in the Advanced settings.

c. Wrong or Missing Colors

If the colors in your prints aren't right, try these solutions.

  • Adjust the Color setting in your printer software to "Color".
  • Modify the color settings in the program you're using or within your printer software's Advanced dialog box.
  • Clean ink nozzles by running the Head Cleaning utility, especially if the printer has not been used for a long time.

d. Blurry or Smudged Prints

If your prints are blurry or smudged, follow these steps.

  • Ensure the printer is placed on a stable, flat surface that extends beyond its base. Tilted positioning can affect its performance.
  • Check your paper. Ensure it's undamaged, clean, and matches the printer's specifications. Place it with the printable side up. If it curls towards the printable side, flatten it slightly or curl it the other way.
  • Check that the paper type you choose in the printer software matches the type of paper you have loaded.
  • Remove each printed sheet from the output tray immediately.
  • Reset custom settings by choosing "Automatic" as the Mode in your printer software's Main menu (Windows) or Print dialog box (Macintosh).
  • For glossy paper, use a support sheet or plain paper beneath the stack, or load one sheet at a time.
  • Avoid touching the printed side of the paper with a shiny finish. After printing, give it a few hours to let the ink set before handling.
  • Run the Head Cleaning utility to clean clogged ink nozzles.
  • Run the Print Head Alignment utility.
  • Adjust the Color Density strength in the Paper Configuration dialog box.
  • Adjust the Drying Time per Print Page in the Paper Configuration dialog box.
  • Load and eject dry paper several times. If the problem persists, ink may have leaked inside the printer. Use a soft, clean cloth to gently wipe the printer's interior. Avoid touching the gears inside the printer.

e. Unwanted Marks from Rollers

If your prints have unwanted marks, here's how to fix it.

  • Adjust drying time for non-EPSON paper.
  • Clean printer rollers occasionally.
  • Printing on the incorrect side of the paper can cause poor print quality. Always ensure the printable side is facing up in the printer's sheet feeder to avoid this issue.

f. Print Quality Doesn't Improve

If cleaning doesn't help, you might need to replace ink cartridges.

  • Replace ink or toner cartridges.

5. Can't Print via Phone/iPad

  1. Check that mobile Bluetooth is on.
  2. If the printer's Bluetooth light isn't blinking, turn on printer Bluetooth and try connecting again.
  3. Check if the printer is paired to another device. Note that the printer can only pair with one device at a time.
  4. If your printer is connected to a computer via USB cable, it can't communicate using Bluetooth. Unplug USB cable and try pairing the printer again.

To know how to print via mobile device, follow the steps in the following guide:

6. Noisy Printer

Laser printers can often make strange squeaky noises due to moving parts like the toner cartridge, imaging drum, fuser unit, and gears. To identify the main cause and fix it, refer to our detailed guide: Squeaky or Grinding Noises from Printer.

7. Epson Printer Printing Slow

If your printing is too slow, consider these potential causes and solutions:

a. Unnecessary Apps Running

Close any apps you're not using on your computer or device.


b. High Print Quality Setting

Lower the quality setting for faster printing.


c. Bidirectional Printing Disabled

Enable bidirectional (high-speed) printing. This allows the print head to move in both directions, increasing printing speed.

  • windows logo  Windows:
    Click on "Bidirectional Printing" located in the More Options tab of your printer driver settings.
  • apple logo  Mac Os:
    In System Preferences, go to Printers & Scanners (or Print & Scan, Print & Fax), select your printer, click Options & Supplies, select Options (or Driver), and choose the setting High Speed Printing.

d. Quiet Mode Enabled

Disable Quiet Mode, as it can slow down printing speed.

  • Control Panel:
    Access Quiet Mode on the home screen and turn it off.
  • windows logo  Windows:
    On the printer driver's Main tab, set Quiet Mode to Off.
  • apple logo  Mac Os:
    In System Preferences, go to Printers & Scanners (or Print & Scan, Print & Fax), select your printer, click Options & Supplies, select Options (or Driver), and choose Off as the Quiet Mode setting.

8. Epson Scanner Not Working

Initial Checks:

  • Ensure the scanner is turned on. Inspect if the power cord is properly connected to the scanner and a working outlet.
  • Check if the outlet works by plugging in another device.
  • Be sure the cable is properly connected between the scanner and your computer, and that it's not damaged.
  • Use the USB cable that came with your scanner, as using a different one might cause problems.
  • Avoid connecting the scanner through multiple USB hubs; use a direct connection or just one hub.
  • If your scanner isn't working on Windows, make sure your computer supports USB.

If scanning problems continue, look into the other causes below:


a. Scanner Doesn't Scan

  • Wait until the status light turns green, indicating the scanner is ready for scanning.
  • The scanner might not function correctly when your computer is in standby (Windows) or sleep mode (Mac OS X). Restart Epson Scan and try scanning again.
  • After upgrading your operating system, the scanner might only work if Epson Scan is reinstalled. Uninstall and reinstall Epson Scan if this is the case.

b. Wrong Program When Pressing Scanner Button

  • windows logo  Windows:
    Open your scanner's Properties window and navigate to the Events tab. Make sure "Take no action" is not selected. Confirm that the "Start Button" is chosen in the Select an event list box, along with "Start this program".
  • apple logo  Mac Os:
    Ensure you are logged in as the user who installed the scanner software. If other users want to scan, they should begin by launching the Epson Scanner Monitor from the Applications folder and then pressing the "Start" button.

c. Can't Scan Multiple Images at Once

  • Place the photos on the document table, leaving a gap of at least 0.8 inches (20 mm) between each photo.
  • Ensure that your scanning program has the capability to scan multiple images.

Final Thoughts

Now armed with knowledge about common Epson printer problems and solutions, you'll be able to optimize your printing process for greater efficiency. However, it's important to note that for more complex or serious printer issues, it's recommended to seek the assistance of a professional.

If you have questions or inquiries about our remanufactured Epson cartridges, you can contact CompAndSave's customer service department. Call our toll-free number: 1-833-465-6888 from Mondays to Fridays from 6am-4pm PT.


Printer Troubleshooting FAQs

How to connect Epson printer to wifi?
  1. Step 1. Turn on your Epson printer. Make sure your Epson printer is on its latest driver update.
  2. Step 2. Tap the Home button on the printer's control panel.
  3. Step 3. Select WiFi Setup. Press OK.
  4. Step 4. Select WiFi Setup Wizard. Press OK.
  5. Step 5. It will now search for an available network.
  6. Step 6. Select your network connection and enter the network password.
  7. Step 7. Wait until the setup is complete. Press OK.
  8. Step 8. It should now connect successfully to your wifi.
How to connect Epson printer to computer?
  1. Step 1. Turn on your Epson printer.
  2. Step 2. Download and install Epson product unit driver software according to your Windows version.
  3. Step 3. Check the terms in the License Agreement box. Click Next.
  4. Step 5. Click Install.
  5. Step 6. Select your Epson product, click Next.
  6. Step 7. Select Printer Registration, click Next.
  7. Step 8. Select Agree, click Next.
  8. Step 9. Register your printer to Epson Connect. Click OK.
  9. Step 10. Create an account or sign in with your existing Epson account.
  10. Step 11. Click Close.
How do I fix my Epson printer that is not responding?

If your Epson printer is not responding, begin with some initial checks like ensuring there are no loose cables, confirming a stable network connection, and trying the classic troubleshooting step of unplugging and then replugging both the printer and the computer.

If the issue persists, proceed with the troubleshooting steps mentioned earlier, including checking for antivirus interference, resolving paper jams or physical issues, setting your preferred printer as the default, updating outdated printer drivers, and addressing stuck print jobs. These measures collectively aim to restore your printer's responsiveness. For in-depth instruction, check our troubleshooting steps for Epson Printer Not Printing/Responding problem.

Why won't my Epson printer turn on?

Start by plugging the printer into another outlet to make sure the outlet isn't causing the issue. If the power cord and outlet are good, check the power button. Sometimes, a faulty power button can stop the printer from turning on. See if the power button is stuck, loose, or broken. If this won't fix the problem, it will be best to contact Epson support.