How to Reset Epson Printer to Factory Settings – Epson printers are known for their reliability, but like any device, they can start acting up after extended use. Whether you’re facing persistent errors, connectivity issues, or just want to wipe everything clean, performing a factory reset can be the solution.
Resetting your Epson printer to its factory settings will erase all configurations, including Wi-Fi credentials, print preferences, and custom profiles. It’s a powerful tool to restore your device to default — and in this guide, you’ll learn how to reset any Epson printer model easily and safely.
What Is a Factory Reset and When Should You Use It?
A factory reset restores your Epson printer to the original settings it had when first purchased. It erases:
- Network settings (Wi-Fi, Ethernet)
- Paired devices and scan destinations
- Print quality profiles and saved presets
- Language and display settings
- Any corrupted internal configurations
When to Reset Epson Printer to Factory Settings
- Printer keeps showing the same error message
- Unable to connect to Wi-Fi or mobile devices
- Frequent paper jam errors or print failures
- After installing incompatible drivers or firmware
- Preparing to sell or give away the printer
Factory reset is a last resort — it won’t fix mechanical issues, but it can resolve persistent software problems.
Types of Reset Available on Epson Printers
| Reset Type | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Network Reset | Clears Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth settings |
| All Settings Reset | Full factory reset — erases everything |
| Maintenance Reset | Used by service centers for deep-level diagnostics |
| Partial Reset | Some models support user-level resets of print preferences only |
How to Reset Epson Printer Using Control Panel (Standard Method)
Most modern Epson printers like the EcoTank, L-series, Expression, and WorkForce series allow factory reset via the control panel.
Steps:
- Turn on the printer
- Press Home on the printer screen
- Navigate to Setup > Restore Default Settings
- Select one of the following:
- All Settings (full factory reset)
- Network Settings only
- Copy/Scan Settings, etc.
- Confirm the reset
- Wait for the printer to reboot
Once complete, the printer will return to default mode — as if newly unboxed.
How to Reset Epson Printer Without Screen (Button Combination Method)
For older or screenless models like Epson L120, L130, L220:
Steps:
- Turn off the printer and unplug power cord
- Hold down the Reset or Stop button
- While holding the button, plug the printer back in and turn it on
- Keep holding the button for 10–20 seconds
- Release when the indicator lights flash
Some models use Power + Stop, Resume + Ink, or other combinations — refer to your model’s service manual.
Using Epson Adjustment Program (Service Tool Reset)
For deeper reset options, especially for non-resettable issues like waste ink pad full or service required, use the Epson Adjustment Program (also known as the Service Mode Tool).
⚠️ Caution: This is an advanced method intended for technicians.
How to Use It:
- Download the Epson Adjustment Program for your specific model
- Connect the printer via USB
- Launch the program and select your model
- Choose “Particular Adjustment Mode”
- Click on “Initialization” or “EEPROM Reset”
- Follow on-screen instructions
Some of these tools can reset internal ink counters, which may extend the life of older Epson printers.
How to Reset Epson Printer Wi-Fi Only
If you only need to clear network settings (e.g., printer connected to the wrong Wi-Fi):
Option 1: Via Control Panel
- Go to Home > Setup > Restore Default Settings
- Choose “Network Settings”
- Confirm reset
Option 2: Manual Button Method
- Turn off the printer
- Hold down Wi-Fi + Reset buttons
- Turn on the printer while still holding
- Release when lights start flashing
The printer will forget all previous Wi-Fi networks and be ready for new configuration.
Reset Epson Printer with Epson Smart Panel App (Mobile Method)
For mobile-first users, some newer models can be reset using the Epson Smart Panel app on iOS or Android.
Steps:
- Open the app and connect to your printer
- Go to Settings > Printer Settings > Restore Defaults
- Choose what you want to reset: network, all settings, etc.
- Follow prompts to confirm
Make sure your printer supports Smart Panel features (most EcoTank and Expression models do).
What Happens After Factory Reset?
After a factory reset, your Epson printer will:
- Display the setup wizard (choose language, region, etc.)
- Require reconnection to Wi-Fi and installation of drivers
- Erase all user data and preferences
- Show default print settings
You must reinstall the printer on your PC or mobile device.
Troubleshooting After Reset
Sometimes, resetting doesn’t go as planned. Here’s what to do:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Printer stuck on welcome screen | Unplug for 30 seconds, then restart |
| Unable to reconnect to Wi-Fi | Check network name/password, use 2.4GHz band |
| Computer can’t detect printer | Reinstall drivers, use USB for setup |
| Factory reset option not found | Update firmware or use button method |
Compatible Models for Factory Reset
The reset methods above work for most Epson printers, including:
- Epson EcoTank: ET-2850, ET-2760, ET-3850, ET-4800
- Epson L Series: L110, L120, L3110, L3150, L5290
- WorkForce Series: WF-2750, WF-3640, WF-7710
- Expression Series: XP-4100, XP-440, XP-6100
Always check your model’s user manual before performing hardware resets.
When Not to Use Factory Reset
- If you’re dealing with hardware issues (broken rollers, scanner failure)
- If you’ve just changed ink and want to clear recognition errors (use cleaning tools instead)
- If the printer is in Firmware Update Mode (use recovery mode)
Conclusion
Resetting your Epson printer to factory settings can resolve a wide range of stubborn issues — from Wi-Fi problems to software glitches and configuration conflicts. Whether you use the built-in menu, button combinations, or the Epson Adjustment Program, this process restores your device to its clean, original state.
Remember to only reset when necessary, back up important scan destinations, and always reconfigure your Wi-Fi after the reset. With proper use, a factory reset is a powerful way to give your printer a fresh start — no technician needed.
