How do I clear clogged nozzles on a Roland UV printer after long storage?
Answer
Confirm ink levels, reseat cartridges, run nozzle checks, then use Roland's cleaning routines from light to medium. Manual swabbing should use only approved UV cleaning fluid if automated cleaning is not enough.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- UV ink and cleaning fluids can irritate skin and eyes—wear gloves and eye protection and dispose of waste properly.
Follow these steps
Check ink and reseat cartridges
Power the printer on and confirm no cartridge is empty or flagged out of ink. Remove and firmly reseat each affected cartridge level and in the correct orientation.
You should see: Ink status looks normal and the printer is ready for a nozzle test.
Run a nozzle test
From the printer's maintenance menu, print a Nozzle Test pattern and note which channels are missing or broken.
You should see: You have a clear printout showing which nozzles need cleaning.
Use progressive automated cleaning
Run a normal/light cleaning first, retest nozzles, then use medium cleaning only if gaps remain. Avoid stacking many strong cleanings back-to-back without retesting, which wastes ink.
You should see: Nozzle test improves after each cleaning cycle, or stops improving so you know further service is needed.
Manual clean only with approved fluid
If gaps remain, follow Roland's documented wipe/flush guidance for your model using approved cleaning liquid and fresh swabs. Stop and contact a qualified Roland technician if the head remains heavily clogged after proper cleaning.
You should see: Nozzles recover, or you have confirmed the printer needs professional head service.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Failed or incomplete Nozzle Test patterns, missing channels, or weak prints after the printer sat unused for months.
Before you change anything: Identify the exact Roland model (for example LEF-12 or LEF-300). Use only ink and cleaning fluid approved for that printer. Protect skin and eyes from UV ink and cleaner; work in a ventilated area.