Printer Won't Turn On? Fixes for HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother
Last Updated:A printer that won't power on at all is actually one of the easier problems to diagnose, because there are only a handful of real causes: a power issue, a stuck power button, or a failed internal component. Work through these in order before assuming the worst. This guide is part of our full Printer Troubleshooting Center.
The Short Answer
Most "won't turn on" cases are a power delivery problem, not a broken printer. Check the outlet and cable first, then do a full power cycle with an extended wait, since several brands require the printer to sit unplugged for a few minutes before internal capacitors fully discharge.
1. Check the Physical Connections
Confirm the power cable is fully seated at both the printer and the wall outlet, and that the outlet itself works by testing another device in it. If you're using a power strip or surge protector, plug the printer directly into the wall instead to rule that out.
2. Press and Hold the Power Button
Some printers, particularly Brother models, are designed to ignore a light tap on the power button to prevent accidental power-on during shipping or storage. Press and hold the button for a full 2-3 seconds rather than tapping it.
3. Rule Out Sleep Mode
A printer in deep sleep can look completely off, with no lights and no display. Press the power button once and wait 30 seconds before assuming it's actually off, since some models take a moment to wake.
4. Do a Full Power Cycle With an Extended Wait
Unplug the printer completely rather than just switching it off. HP recommends waiting at least 15 minutes for models showing no power at all, while Canon and Brother support teams often suggest 5-30 minutes for stubborn cases. Then plug it back in directly and press the power button once.
5. Test a Different Outlet
Try a different wall outlet, ideally on a different circuit, to rule out a tripped breaker or a dead outlet. This is especially worth checking if other devices nearby have also had power issues recently.
6. Check for a Removable Battery (Mobile Printers)
Portable printers with rechargeable batteries can fail to power on if the battery is fully drained or has died entirely. Plug the printer into AC power directly, bypassing the battery if it's removable, and see if it powers on that way.
7. Look for Signs of a Dead Power Supply
If the power brick or internal power supply has failed, you may notice a faint burning smell, a cracked cable, or the printer feeling unusually hot near the power connector even when off. This typically isn't something you can fix at home.
Brand-Specific Notes
- HP — For printers with no lights at all, HP support recommends unplugging for a minimum of 60 seconds before retrying, and up to 15 minutes for models that still don't respond.
- Canon — Canon's official guidance for a printer that won't power on is to unplug it for at least 5 minutes, checking that the outlet works with another device in the meantime.
- Brother — Brother support notes that the power button must be pressed firmly, not lightly tapped, since many models are designed this way to avoid accidental power-on in transit.
- Epson — Check for a blinking power light first, since on many Epson models this indicates the printer is processing an internal error rather than being fully off.
Still Not Turning On?
If you've tried everything above and there's still no sign of life, the internal power supply has likely failed and the printer will need professional repair or replacement. If the printer does power on but won't connect or print, these guides pick up from there:
If It's Time to Replace It
If your printer's power supply has failed and it's an older model, replacement is often more practical than a repair. Prices and stock change often; as an Amazon Associate, Castle Ink earns from qualifying purchases.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2980 (check price on Amazon) is a reliable, well-reviewed replacement that's easy to set up right out of the box.
Written and reviewed by William Elward — Founder of Castle Ink, 20+ years in the printer & imaging supplies industry.