How to clean the thermal print head on your Epson TM receipt printer

How to clean the thermal print head on your Epson TM receipt printer

Time needed: about 10 minutes
You'll need: isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher), a lint-free cloth or cotton swabs, and a fresh roll of receipt paper.

Before you start

• Switch the printer off and unplug it from the mains.
• Wait at least 10 minutes. The print head gets hot during use and can burn you or be damaged if you clean it while warm.
• Don't touch the print head with your fingers, and never use anything sharp or metal on it. Skin oils and scratches both damage it.

Step 1: Open the paper cover

Press the cover release lever or button (usually on the side or top of the printer) and lift the cover. Remove the paper roll.

Actual thermal printhead shown below

Step 3: Let it dry

Leave the cover open for 1 to 2 minutes so the alcohol evaporates fully. Printing on a damp head can smudge the paper.

Step 5: Reload the paper and test

1. Put the paper roll back in, with the paper feeding out over the top and the printing side facing up (this is the heat-sensitive side for most Epson rolls, so check your roll's packaging if unsure).
2. Close the cover firmly until it clicks.
3. Plug the printer back in and switch it on.
4. Print a test receipt. To run the printer's built-in self-test, hold the Feed button while switching on.

Keeping it clean

• Clean the head every 3 to 6 months, or sooner if receipts start to look faded, streaky or patchy.
• Store paper rolls away from heat, sunlight and dust.
• Use good quality thermal paper. Cheap paper tends to leave more dust and residue.

Still printing poorly?

If the receipts are still faint or streaky after cleaning, the print head may be worn and need replacing. Please get in touch with Xpos Support.