Expanded exact-code directory
Epson WorkForce printer error codes
Epson WorkForce printer indicators as Epson Support lists them, each with its meaning and the first safe check.
- communication-error-check-if-a-pc-is-connectedThe printer cannot talk to the computer.
- ink-pad-nearing-or-at-end-of-service-lifeThe ink pads are near, or at, the
- invalid-ip-address-and-subnet-maskThere is a problem with the network connection
- maintenance-box-nearing-or-at-end-of-service-lifeThe maintenance box is nearing the end of
Every code
Every Epson WorkForce printer code: what it means and what to do
- communication-error-check-if-a-pc-is-connected
- ink-pad-nearing-or-at-end-of-service-life
- invalid-ip-address-and-subnet-mask
- maintenance-box-nearing-or-at-end-of-service-life
- no-dial-tone-detected
- printer-error-turn-the-power-off-and-on-again
Epson WorkForce printer code communication-error-check-if-a-pc-is-connected
The printer cannot talk to the computer.
Check the USB cable or network connection between the computer and the printer.
Epson's step is to make sure the computer is connected to the product and your software is installed correctly.
Epson WorkForce printer code ink-pad-nearing-or-at-end-of-service-life
The ink pads are near, or at, the end of their service life.
Note whether the message says "nearing" or "at" the end.
Epson's steps: when nearing, the message displays until the ink pad is replaced, so contact Epson to replace the ink pads before the end of their service life, and press one of the buttons to resume printing. When at the end of service life, turn off the product and contact Epson for support.
Epson WorkForce printer code invalid-ip-address-and-subnet-mask
There is a problem with the network connection to the product.
Look at the printer's network settings.
Epson's page gives no specific fix and says to see your documentation, so compare the printer's IP address and subnet mask settings with your network's.
Epson WorkForce printer code maintenance-box-nearing-or-at-end-of-service-life
The maintenance box is nearing the end of its service life, or is at the end of its service life.
Find out whether the message says "nearing" or "at" the end.
Epson's steps: when the box is nearing the end of its service life, make sure you have a new maintenance box so you can replace it in time. When it is at the end of its service life you must replace it to continue printing.
Epson WorkForce printer code no-dial-tone-detected
The printer cannot detect a dial tone for its fax line.
Check the phone cable and try the Check Fax Connection function.
Epson's steps: make sure the phone cable is connected correctly and the phone line works. If the product is connected to a PBX phone line or a Terminal Adapter, turn off the Dial Tone Detection setting.
Epson WorkForce printer code printer-error-turn-the-power-off-and-on-again
A serious error has occurred.
Turn the printer off and then back on again.
Epson's steps: turn the product off and back on, and if the error continues check for a paper jam. If there is no paper jam, contact Epson for support.
Epson Support — WF-3540 User's Guide: Product Status Messages; Epson US Support — Epson Printer Parts "Service Required" Message
Epson WorkForce screen messages and what to do
WorkForce printers show their problems as text on the control panel, and the message usually tells you the first thing to try. Paper jam, paper out, ink low and cartridge not recognized messages point to the paper path or the cartridges, and a printhead or service message means the printer needs attention beyond the usual checks. Read the message and the error code number if one is shown, then follow the simple steps in order: clear the paper path from the front and rear, reseat the cartridges until they click, close all covers and turn the printer off and on.
A communication error between the printer and the computer is often a cable or network matter: check the USB cable or the Wi-Fi connection, restart the printer and the router and reinstall the driver from Epson's site. Messages about service life or a maintenance box mean the printer needs a part replaced by Epson or an authorized service center, and ignoring them can stop the printer working.
What does Cartridge not recognized mean on a WorkForce?
The printer cannot read the cartridge. Remove it, check the contacts and reseat it, and use a cartridge made for your model.
Can I keep printing with a low ink message?
Usually yes for a while, but print quality may drop, and some printers stop when a cartridge is empty.