Epson Printer Error Code W-02 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Epson error W-02 means your printer is out of paper or cannot detect paper in the tray. This is one of the simplest Epson errors to fix. Load paper into the correct tray and press the Start button to resume printing.

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

The paper tray is completely empty
Paper is loaded but not pushed in far enough for the sensor to detect it
The paper guides are too loose, allowing paper to shift out of position
The paper is curled, wrinkled, or damp, preventing the rollers from gripping it
The paper feed rollers are dirty and cannot pick up the paper

How to Fix It

Check the paper tray. If it is empty, load a stack of at least 10 sheets of plain paper.

Do not overload the tray past the maximum fill line. Too many sheets can also cause feed problems.
Push the paper all the way into the tray until it stops. Adjust the edge guides so they fit snugly against the paper stack.

Loose guides let paper shift sideways, which prevents the rollers from gripping it.
Fan the paper stack before loading it. Separate the sheets by bending the stack back and forth.

Sheets that are stuck together cause feed failures, especially in humid environments.
Make sure the paper size in the tray matches the paper size selected in your print settings.

If the printer expects letter-size paper but you loaded A4 (or vice versa), it may report a paper-out error.
Press the Start button or the paper button on the printer to resume printing.

If the error returns immediately, try cleaning the paper feed rollers. Your Epson manual explains how to run the roller cleaning function.

When to Call a Professional

The W-02 error is almost always fixable at home. If the error keeps showing after loading paper correctly, the paper feed roller or paper sensor may need servicing. A technician can clean or replace these parts for $40 to $70.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Epson say 'paper out' when paper is loaded?

The paper may not be pushed in deep enough for the sensor to detect it. Remove all paper, tap the stack on a flat surface, and reload it firmly. Also check that the edge guides are snug and the paper is flat.

Can I use any type of paper?

For regular printing, use standard 20-pound or 24-pound copy paper. For photo printing, use paper designed for inkjet printers. Avoid very thin or very thick paper unless your model specifically supports it. Check your Epson manual for supported paper weights.

How do I clean the Epson paper feed rollers?

Most Epson printers have a roller cleaning function in the maintenance menu. Go to Setup or Settings > Maintenance > Paper Feed Roller Cleaning. The printer will feed a sheet of paper to clean the rollers. Run it two or three times for best results.