How to Install Ink Cartridge in Epson Printer?

Whether you have a refillable Epson EcoTank printer or a cartridge-based Epson Expression or WorkForce printer, it’s essential to know how to install ink correctly. EcoTank printers can be refilled when ink is low, but cartridge-based printers require new cartridges to continue printing. In this blog, we’ll show you step-by-step how to install ink cartridges in an Epson printer.

How to Install Ink Cartridge in Epson Printer?

First, let’s clarify the ink system type of Epson printers. Epson offers two main types of ink systems in its printers:

• Ink Tank Printers (Refillable Ink): These Epson printers come with large refillable ink tanks, usually the Epson’s EcoTank (ET) series. When ink is low, users need to pour ink from the bottle into the ink tank. E.g., Epson EcoTank ET-2803, Epson EcoTank ET-2850, Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550, Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5850, Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16600, etc.
• Ink Cartridge Printers (Replaceable Cartridges): These Epson printers use traditional ink cartridges, typically the Epson WorkForce (WF) and Epson Expression (XP) series. When the cartridges are empty, they are replaced individually. E.g., Epson Expression Premium XP-7100, Epson WorkForce Pro WF-3820, Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7820, Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840, Epson WorkForce WF-2630, Epson WorkForce WF-2750, Epson Workforce WF-2850, Epson WorkForce WF-2930, Epson WorkForce WF-7620, etc.

In summary, the EcoTank series allows you to add ink directly to the printer, while cartridge-based printers require you to replace empty ink cartridges. Now, let’s learn how to replace ink cartridges in Epson printers.

1. Confirm “Ink Cartridge Replacement”

For Epson WorkForce and Epson Expression series printers with a display, you need to confirm “Ink Cartridge Replacement” before manually replacing the cartridge. 

This step ensures that your Epson printer correctly recognizes the new ink cartridge once installed. For example, on models such as Epson Expression Premium XP-7100, Epson Expression XP-4100, XP-4105, Epson Expression Home XP-4200, XP-4205, and Epson WorkForce WF-2850, follow these steps:

Open the “Maintenance” menu on the printer control panel, select “Ink Cartridge(s) Replacement,” select “Next,” and then press “Start.”

If a low ink message appears on the LCD screen, select “Next” and then “Yes, replace now.”

2. Open the Printer Cover

Then, lift up the scanner unit to open your Epson printer cover. For some models, you may need to lift an additional inner cover. The ink cartridge carriage will move out from the side; wait until it stops.

3. Remove the Old Epson Cartridge

After that, gently press down on the cartridge tab to release the old ink cartridge from the slot. You can place it on a piece of paper or a plastic bag to prevent the ink from smudging.

Make sure not to touch the printhead or any electrical contacts inside the printer to avoid damage.

4. Install the New Epson Cartridge

Then, remove the new Epson ink cartridge from its packaging and remove the protective tape or plastic seal. Be careful not to touch the ink nozzles or chips.

Insert the new cartridge into the slot at an angle according to the color coding, and then gently push down until you hear a click. The cartridge is now firmly in place.

5. Close the Printer Cover

After installing ink cartridges, close your printer cover. Your Epson printer will then begin to recognize the new ink cartridge and prompt you to confirm the installation on the control panel, select “Completed.”

Once recognized, we can run a test print to verify that the Epson ink cartridge is working properly:

Load plain paper into the printer tray, then go to “Settings” or “Maintenance,” and select “Print a Test Page.”

Check the printed page for any missing lines or color inconsistencies. If necessary, you can run a printhead cleaning cycle to improve ink flow, which can be found in “Maintenance.”

Watch the video below to learn the complete installation process of Epson ink cartridges.

How to Check the Ink Levels in Epson Printer?

Monitoring ink levels can help you determine when to replace your Epson ink cartridges. There are several ways to check the ink levels in your Epson printer.

1. Checking Ink Levels on the Printer Display

If your Epson printer has an LCD screen, follow these steps to check the ink levels:

Press the “Home” button on the printer control panel and navigate to the “Settings” or “Maintenance” menu.

Select “Ink Levels” or “Check Ink Levels” (depending on the printer model), and the screen will show the remaining ink levels for each color.

2. Checking Ink Levels on a Windows PC

For Windows users, you can check the ink levels via Epson Status Monitor:

Open the “Control Panel” on your computer, and click on “Devices and Printers” or “Printers & scanners” in Windows 10/11.

Then find your Epson printer and right-click it, select “Printing Preferences” and click on the “Maintenance” tab. Finally, select “Epson Status Monitor” to check the ink levels.

3. Checking Ink Levels on a Mac

For Mac users, you can check ink levels using the Printers & Scanners settings:

Open “System Preferences,” then go to “Printers & Scanners,” and select your Epson printer from the list on the left. Select “Options & Supplies,” click the “Supplies Levels” tab, and the current ink levels will be displayed.

4. Checking Ink Levels Using the Epson App

You can also check the ink levels of your Epson printer using the Epson Smart Panel App or Epson iPrint App.

First, Check the Epson Smart Panel App page for supported models. If your printer isn’t listed, use Epson iPrint.

Then, download and install the app from the App Store or Google Play. Open it and connect your printer, and you can check the current ink status under “Ink Levels.” Our blog How to Connect Epson Printer to WiFi provides detailed connection instructions.

Get High–Quality Ink Cartridges at the Best Prices

Need reliable, high-quality ink for your Epson printer? YB Toner offers affordable ink cartridge replacements that deliver top-notch printing at a low price. Plus, enjoy a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 2-year warranty. Order now for the best value!

Frequently Asked Questions about Epson Ink Cartridges

1. How do I know which ink cartridges are compatible with my Epson printer?

You can find your printer on the Epson official website and click “FIND INK” to find the compatible ink cartridge model. In addition, the label on your printer’s ink cartridge also indicates the ink cartridge model.

2. Can I use third-party ink cartridges in my Epson printer?

Yes, many third-party ink cartridges work with Epson printers. Just make sure you buy from a reliable brand, and you’ll get high-quality printer ink at an affordable price.

3. What should I do if my Epson printer displays an error after installing the ink cartridge?

If you see an error message after installing a new ink cartridge, try to remove and re-install ink cartridge. Additionally, restarting your Epson printer or running a printhead cleaning cycle can also help.

Wrap It Up

Replacing the ink cartridges in your Epson printer is a great way to ensure that your printer runs smoothly and produces high-quality prints. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily install ink cartridge in your Epson printer and avoid common problems that can occur.

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