How to Reset an Epson Printer: Soft Reset, Network Reset, Factory Reset and Ink Levels
Last Updated:Quick answer: to reset an Epson printer, first do a soft reset: press the power button to turn it off, unplug it for 60 seconds, then plug it in and turn it on. For Wi-Fi problems, reset just the network settings. For a full factory reset on Epson models with a screen, go to Settings > Restore Default Settings and choose All Settings (or Clear All Data and Settings). EcoTank owners reset ink levels by confirming the refill on the printer after topping up each tank. If the printer says the ink pads are at the end of their service life, a reset won't help — the waste ink pads or maintenance box need replacing.
Which Epson Reset Do I Need?
| Problem | Reset to use | What you lose |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen screen, "Printer error. Turn power off and then on again." | Soft reset — after checking for jammed paper or packing tape | Nothing |
| Won't connect to Wi-Fi or new router | Restore network settings | Wi-Fi name and password |
| Settings changed, odd behavior | Restore default settings (All Settings) | All custom settings |
| EcoTank ink levels wrong after refilling | Ink level reset (confirm refill) | Nothing |
| Cartridge not recognized | Reseat cartridge, then soft reset | Nothing |
| "Ink pads at end of service life" | Replace the maintenance box, or service — not a user reset | — |
How Do I Soft Reset an Epson Printer?
- Cancel any jobs on your computer.
- Open the scanner lid and printer cover and check for jammed paper, bits of paper or orange packing tape.
- Press the power button to turn the printer off. Wait for it to shut down fully so the printhead is capped.
- Unplug the power cord and wait 60 seconds.
- Plug it back in and turn it on.
- Run a nozzle check or print our free test page.
How Do I Reset the Network Settings on an Epson Printer?
Epson printers with a screen
Go to Settings > Restore Default Settings > Network Settings and confirm. On some models the option is under Settings > General Settings > Network Settings > Advanced. Then run Wi-Fi Setup again.
Epson printers without a screen
Button-only Epson models restore network settings with a button combination (usually involving the Wi-Fi button). The exact combination varies, so search Epson's support site for "[your model] restore network settings." You can also use Epson's Web Config page by typing the printer's IP address into a browser — see how to find your printer's IP address.
Reconnect with how to connect a printer to Wi-Fi, or with the WPS method in WPS PIN on a printer.
How Do I Factory Reset an Epson Printer?
- From the home screen, open Settings.
- Select Restore Default Settings.
- Choose All Settings (some models call it Clear All Data and Settings).
- Confirm. The printer restarts with factory defaults.
- Set the language, paper settings and Wi-Fi again, then re-add the printer on your computer if needed.
A factory reset does not change ink levels, fix clogged nozzles or reset the waste ink pad counter.
How Do I Reset the Ink Levels on an Epson EcoTank?
EcoTank printers can't sense the ink in the tanks directly, so they rely on you to confirm each refill:
- Models with a screen: after filling the tanks, follow the on-screen prompts and select each color you refilled so the printer resets its ink level estimate.
- Models without a screen: the refill steps in your manual use a button (often the ink or Stop button) to confirm the refill.
Only confirm a refill when the tank is actually filled to the upper line — otherwise the printer's estimate will be wrong and it may run a tank dry. Refill before the ink drops below the lower line. For refill ink, see Castle Ink's Epson 502 EcoTank ink bottles 4-pack.
Cartridge models (Expression, WorkForce) read ink levels from the cartridge chip, so there's nothing to reset — install a new cartridge. If the printer won't accept it, remove and reinsert it until it clicks, and see ink cartridge not recognized. Firmware updates can affect third-party cartridges — see firmware updates and third-party ink.
What Does "Ink Pads Are at the End of Their Service Life" Mean?
Every inkjet sends a little ink to internal absorbent pads during cleaning cycles. Epson counts that ink, and when the pads are estimated to be full, the printer stops to prevent ink leaking out.
- Newer EcoTank and WorkForce models use a user-replaceable maintenance box. Replace it and the message clears — check your manual for the part number, or find a replacement Epson maintenance box.
- Older models have internal pads that require Epson service. Epson has offered a reset utility for some older models on its support site; availability varies by model and region.
Frequent head cleanings fill the pads faster. If you're cleaning often, try the steps in Epson printer not printing: 10 fixes first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a factory reset fix my Epson printer not printing?
Rarely. Printing problems are usually clogged nozzles, empty ink or a connection issue. See Epson not printing color and how to clean print heads.
How do I reset an Epson printer that says "Printer error"?
Turn it off, remove any paper or foreign objects from the paper path and around the print head, then turn it back on. If the error persists after a soft reset, contact Epson support.
Why does my Epson printer keep going offline after a reset?
The printer may have received a new IP address. See why printers keep going offline.
Can I reset Epson ink cartridge chips?
Not in the printer. Remanufactured and compatible cartridges come with working chips, so you simply install a new cartridge.
How do I update the firmware on my Epson printer?
Through the printer's Settings menu, Epson's software on your computer, or Web Config. Read what firmware updates change before updating if you use non-Epson ink.
What error codes can a reset fix?
Temporary errors, yes; hardware and ink pad errors, no. See printer error codes explained.
My Epson won't turn on at all. What should I do?
Check the outlet and cord, then see printer won't turn on.
Keep Printing
Castle Ink stocks Epson ink cartridges and EcoTank bottles, plus sublimation ink for converted EcoTanks (which EcoTanks convert). Find your model on the Find Ink by Printer page or visit the printer troubleshooting center. Time for a new printer? Try the PrinterIQ Finder or browse Epson EcoTank printers on Amazon.
As an Amazon Associate, Castle Ink earns from qualifying purchases.
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