Epson Printer Error Code W-06 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Epson error W-06 indicates a paper loading or media detection problem. The printer could not detect paper correctly in the tray, or the paper that is loaded does not match the expected size or type. This is a simple loading or settings issue that is usually fixed in under a minute.

Affected Models

Epson EcoTank ET-2800
Epson EcoTank ET-4800
Epson WorkForce WF-2960
Epson Expression Home XP-4100
Epson Expression Premium XP-6100

Common Causes

The paper tray is empty and the printer cannot find paper to feed
The paper is loaded at an angle and the sensors cannot detect it correctly
The paper size set in the print settings does not match the paper actually loaded
The paper guides in the tray are set too loosely and paper has shifted out of position
The paper tray is not fully pushed in, leaving a gap that prevents correct paper detection

How to Fix It

Check that paper is loaded in the input tray. If the tray is empty, load a stack of plain paper appropriate for your printer.

For most Epson printers, A4 or US Letter size 80 gsm plain paper is the standard recommended media.
Remove the paper, straighten it, fan it to separate the sheets, and reload it in a neat, aligned stack.

Paper that is crooked or fanned out in the tray can confuse the paper detection sensor.
Adjust the paper guides so they gently touch both sides and the back edge of the paper stack.

Guides that are too loose allow the paper to shift. Guides that are too tight can bow the paper — both cause detection errors.
Make sure the paper tray is fully inserted. Push it in firmly until it clicks or sits flush with the printer body.

A partially inserted tray can break the paper detection sensor circuit.
Match the paper size in your print settings to the paper you have loaded. On the printer display or in the print dialog, confirm the size matches.

Many Epson printers will pause and show an error if the loaded paper does not match the size selected in settings.

When to Call a Professional

Error W-06 is a paper loading issue — not a hardware fault. No repair is needed. If the error appears consistently even with correctly loaded paper, the paper sensor may need professional inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Epson show W-06 when there is paper in the tray?

The paper may be there but not positioned correctly for the sensor to detect it. The sensor checks that paper is in a specific position — if it is loaded too far forward, too far back, or at an angle, the sensor may not register it. Remove the paper and reload it carefully against the back of the tray with the guides properly adjusted.

Can I use any paper size I want in my Epson printer?

Epson printers support a range of paper sizes, but the size must be within the printer's specifications. Common sizes like A4, Letter, 4x6, and 5x7 are typically supported. Non-standard sizes may need to be configured as a custom size in the printer driver settings. Always check your printer's manual for the full list of supported media sizes.

Does the paper type matter as well as the size?

Yes. Selecting the wrong paper type in the print settings (like selecting Glossy when Plain is loaded) can cause the printer to pause and ask you to confirm the settings. Always match both the paper size and paper type in your print settings to what is physically loaded in the tray.