Epson Printer Error Code I-31 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Epson error I-31 means one or more ink cartridges are running low. The printer is warning you that ink will run out soon. You can usually keep printing for a while, but the quality may start to fade.

Affected Models

Epson EcoTank ET-2800
Epson EcoTank ET-4850
Epson WorkForce WF-2960
Epson Expression Home XP-4200
Epson Expression Photo XP-8700

Common Causes

One or more ink cartridges have reached a low ink level based on the printer's internal counter
An ink cartridge was recently replaced and the printer has not fully recognized the new ink level
The ink level sensor on the cartridge is dirty or malfunctioning
A third-party or refilled cartridge is not reporting its ink level correctly
On EcoTank models, the ink tank is visually low and the sensor has detected it

How to Fix It

Check which ink color is low. On the printer display or in the Epson software on your computer, look at the ink level indicators.

The printer will show you which specific color (black, cyan, magenta, or yellow) is running low.
If you have a replacement cartridge, install it now. Open the cartridge access door, remove the old cartridge, and insert the new one until it clicks.

Make sure you remove any protective tape or seals from the new cartridge before installing.
For EcoTank models, refill the low ink tank. Open the ink tank cover, uncap the tank, and pour in the correct color of Epson ink.

Use the matching color — the tanks and bottles are color-coded to prevent mistakes.
If you do not have ink on hand, you can keep printing. Press the OK or Start button to dismiss the warning and continue.

Print quality may decline as the ink gets lower. Replace the ink before it runs out completely to avoid print head damage.
After replacing the ink, the printer should automatically detect the new cartridge. If the warning stays, turn the printer off and back on.

Some models take a minute to update the ink level display after a cartridge change.

When to Call a Professional

The I-31 error does not need professional help. It is simply an ink level warning that you can handle at home. Just replace the cartridge or refill the ink tank when you are ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep printing with the I-31 warning?

Yes, the I-31 is just a warning, not a stop error. You can continue printing by pressing OK to dismiss the message. But plan to replace the ink soon — printing on empty can damage the print head.

Are third-party ink cartridges safe to use?

Third-party cartridges are cheaper but quality varies. Some work fine, while others leak or report incorrect ink levels. Using non-Epson ink may void your warranty, so weigh the savings against the risk.

How do I know when ink is completely out versus just low?

The I-31 warning means low — you still have some ink left. When a cartridge is completely empty, the printer will show a different error and refuse to print. Replace the ink while it is still at the warning stage to avoid interruptions.