Adjust Print Quality : Clean the Print Head

Clean the Print Head Nozzles
If print quality has declined and the nozzle check pattern indicates clogged nozzles, you can clean the print head.
Note:
You cannot clean the print head if an ink cartridge is expended or low. You must replace the cartridge first.
You can clean the print head using the Epson Stylus CX8400 Series control panel or your software.
Using the Control Panel
1.
2.
Press Setup.
3.
Select Maintenance and press OK.
4.
Select Head Cleaning and press OK.
5.
Press  Start.
Follow any instructions on the LCD display screen during cleaning, which lasts around 1 minute. When it’s finished, you see a message on the screen.
Caution:
Never turn off the Epson Stylus CX8400 Series during a cleaning cycle or you may damage it.
6.
Run a nozzle check to confirm that the print head is clean.
You may need to clean the print head up to 2 times. If you don’t see any improvement, turn off your Epson Stylus CX8400 Series and wait at least 6 hours to let any dried ink soften. Then try printing again.
From the Computer
1.
2.
Windows:
Right-click the  printer icon in the bottom right corner of your screen (the taskbar) and select Head Cleaning.
Macintosh:
Open the Applications folder, open the EPSON Printer Utility 2, select CX8400 Series, and click OK. Then select Head Cleaning.
3.
The On light flashes throughout the cleaning cycle and stays on green when the cycle is finished.
Caution:
Never turn off the Epson Stylus CX8400 Series during a cleaning cycle or you may damage it.
4.
When the On light stops flashing and remains on, you can check to see if the nozzles are clean:
Windows:
Click Print Nozzle Check Pattern and click Print.
Macintosh:
Click Confirmation and click Next.
5.
6.
If there are gaps or the pattern is faint, click Clean to clean the print head again.
You may need to clean the print head up to 2 times. If you don’t see any improvement, turn off your Epson Stylus CX8400 Series and wait at least 6 hours to let any dried ink soften. Then try printing again.