Epson Printer Error Code 0xE1 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Epson error code 0xE1 means the printer has detected a paper jam or a paper feed error. The printer cannot detect paper in the correct position, or paper has become stuck in the feed path. You may see the printer stopping mid-print, making grinding noises, or refusing to start a print job. In most cases, removing the jammed paper and reloading the tray resolves this error without any tools.

Affected Models

Epson WorkForce WF-2850
Epson Expression ET-2750
Epson EcoTank ET-4760
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4740
Epson Expression XP-4100

Common Causes

A sheet of paper is stuck in the paper feed or output path
A torn piece of paper is lodged inside the printer and is invisible from outside
Paper loaded in the tray is skewed, bent, or damaged causing a misfeed
The paper tray is overloaded beyond the recommended maximum capacity
Paper type or thickness is outside the supported range for that feed slot

How to Fix It

Turn off the printer and unplug it. Open all access panels — the rear access panel, paper tray, and output tray. Remove any paper you can see.

Pull paper out slowly in the direction of travel. Pulling against the feed direction can tear the paper and leave fragments inside.
Use a flashlight to look inside the paper path for small torn pieces. Even a small scrap of paper left inside will trigger the error again on the next print.

Check behind and around the print head carriage area — paper fragments often land there.
Remove all paper from the input tray. Gently flex the stack to separate the sheets. Reload a neat, even stack with the paper guides adjusted to touch (but not squeeze) the edges.

Do not load more than the maximum capacity shown in the tray — usually 100 to 200 sheets depending on the model.
Check that you are loading the correct paper type and size for the selected print job. Thick card stock in a tray set for plain paper can cause feed errors.

Adjust the paper type settings in the printer driver and the guide settings to match the paper you are loading.
Plug the printer back in and power it on. Press the OK or Resume button to clear the error and attempt the print job again.

If 0xE1 returns immediately, there is still paper inside — repeat the inspection.

When to Call a Professional

Error 0xE1 is almost always resolved by the user. If the error persists after clearing all visible paper and reloading the tray, the paper feed rollers may be worn or dirty. Epson service centers can clean or replace the pick-up rollers. For newer printers still under warranty, contact Epson support before paying for service.

Frequently Asked Questions

My Epson printer shows 0xE1 but I cannot see any jammed paper. What do I do?

There is likely a small torn fragment inside that is not visible without a flashlight. Open every access panel, use a torch to illuminate the inside, and check all angles of the paper path. Sometimes paper hides behind the cartridge carriage area or under the paper feed rollers.

Can worn rollers cause error 0xE1?

Yes. If the pick-up rollers are worn smooth, they cannot grip paper reliably. The printer may pull the paper in crooked, causing a jam, or fail to pull it at all. Cleaning the rollers with a damp lint-free cloth often helps — if wear is severe, replacement is needed.

Does error 0xE1 damage the printer?

Not directly. The error stops printing to prevent damage from forcing paper through a blockage. Repeatedly forcing jammed paper out incorrectly (pulling against the feed direction) can damage the feed rollers over time. Always pull paper out gently in the direction of normal travel.