Epson Printer Test Page & Nozzle Check Guide

01 / GUIDE

Test sheet or nozzle check?

Our color test is a normal printable document: it shows blocks, gradients, text, and image detail. An Epson nozzle check is generated by the printer itself. Use the native check when investigating gaps or faint output.

The example below is for the WF-3820. Other WorkForce, EcoTank, and Expression models can have different menus and maintenance limits.

02 / GUIDE

Run a WF-3820 nozzle check

Use the printer’s touch screen for this procedure; no browser document is required.

1. Clear any errors shown on the LCD and load a few sheets of plain paper.
2. Return to the Home screen and choose Maintenance.
3. Select Print Head Nozzle Check, then Start.
4. Inspect the printed lines. Select O if they have no gaps, or X if there are gaps, and follow the on-screen guidance.

03 / GUIDE

Read the native pattern

Look for interruptions in lines that should be continuous. Gaps or a faint pattern can indicate that the printhead needs cleaning. If the pattern is complete but normal documents look wrong, compare paper type and print-quality settings before repeating maintenance.

Follow the cleaning and waiting limits in your exact model’s manual. Do not turn the printer off or open its front cover during a cleaning cycle.

04 / GUIDE

Compare a normal color print

After following the model’s maintenance instructions, use the same color test sheet and paper settings to compare visible output.

1. Open the color test below and choose A4 or US Letter.
2. Select your Epson printer in the print dialog and match the paper type to the loaded paper.
3. Print one sheet. Compare color coverage, gradients, text, and image detail.
4. For a closer look at a document color, use the CMYK or single-color test. These do not isolate a physical ink channel.

GOOD TO KNOW

Common questions