Reset Epson L396 Fix -

Title: Comprehensive Reset and Maintenance Guide for the Epson L396

Document Version: 1.0 Target Device: Epson EcoTank L396 (All-in-One Ink Tank Printer) Objective: To resolve error states, perform a factory reset, reset ink level monitoring, and clear maintenance box counters.

How to inspect the ink pad on Epson L396:

  1. Turn off and unplug the printer.
  2. Open the scanner unit (lift it up).
  3. Look inside the right side – you’ll see a spongy pad (usually white or gray).
  4. Touch it gently with a paper towel. If it’s completely black and wet, replace the pad before resetting.

Where to buy a replacement: Search for “Epson L396 maintenance box” or “waste ink pad kit” online (eBay, Amazon, AliExpress). It costs $5–$15.

If the pad is dry or only partially dirty, you can safely reset the counter. reset epson l396

2) Cancel/Resume method (clears some errors)

  1. With the printer on, press and hold the Resume button (triangle inside circle) for 5–10 seconds until the lights flash.
  2. Release and wait for the printer to initialize.
  3. Print a nozzle check or test page.

Method 2: Hardware Resetter Dongle (For Non-Windows Users)

If you don’t have a PC or find the software too complex, buy a USB resetter dongle for the Epson L396 (eBay, Amazon, AliExpress – $5–$10).

Instructions:

  1. Turn off the printer.
  2. Plug the resetter dongle into the USB port on the front of the printer.
  3. Turn on the printer while pressing the “Reset” button on the dongle (if it has one) or simply let the dongle auto-detect.
  4. Wait for the LED on the dongle to turn green or stop flashing.
  5. Remove the dongle and restart the printer.

This is the simplest method, but the dongle is specific to the L396 – it may not work on other models.

1) Basic power-cycle reset (try first)

  1. Turn the printer off using the power button.
  2. Unplug the power cable from the printer and wall outlet.
  3. Wait 60 seconds.
  4. Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
  5. Print a test page.

Part 8: Is It Worth Resetting? (Cost vs. New Printer)

The Epson L396 is a budget all-in-one EcoTank. Before spending hours on a reset, consider: Title: Comprehensive Reset and Maintenance Guide for the

If your printer is over 4 years old and has other issues (paper feed, scan bar noise, slow printing), it may be time to replace it. However, if the L396 is mechanically sound, a reset is 100% worth it.

3. Print Regularly (Once a Week)

Prevents dried nozzles, which reduces the need for powerful cleaning flushes. Turn off and unplug the printer