How to Clean Ink Absorber Canon Pixma MG2520: Easy Steps for a Spotless Printer

Are you facing the dreaded “Ink Absorber Full” error message on your Canon PIXMA MG2520 printer? This message indicates that the printer’s internal ink absorber, which collects excess ink during routine maintenance, is full and needs to be reset. While this might seem daunting, cleaning the ink absorber on your Canon PIXMA MG2520 is a relatively straightforward process. This blog post will guide you through the steps, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this common printer issue.

Understanding the Ink Absorber and Its Importance

The ink absorber, also known as the waste ink pad, plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your Canon PIXMA MG2520. It’s a sponge-like material that absorbs excess ink during routine operations like cleaning the print heads and aligning the ink cartridges. This prevents ink from spilling onto your printer’s internal components and damaging them.
However, the ink absorber has a limited capacity. Over time, it becomes saturated with ink. When the absorber reaches its limit, your printer will display the “Ink Absorber Full” error message, halting printing operations.

Why Is My Ink Absorber Full?

Several factors can contribute to a full ink absorber, including:

• Frequent cleaning cycles: If you frequently clean the print heads, the ink absorber will absorb more ink.
• Ink cartridge leaks: Faulty or damaged ink cartridges can leak ink, filling the absorber faster.
• Printing large volumes: Printing a significant number of documents or photos can lead to increased ink usage and a quicker fill-up of the absorber.
• Old printer: As your printer ages, the ink absorber may become less efficient, leading to a faster fill-up.

The Risks of Ignoring the “Ink Absorber Full” Error

Ignoring the “Ink Absorber Full” error message can have serious consequences:

• Printing halted: Your printer will stop printing until the error is resolved.
• Internal damage: A full ink absorber can lead to ink spills and damage to the printer’s internal components.
• Voiding your warranty: Ignoring the error may void your printer’s warranty, leaving you responsible for repair costs.

How to Clean the Ink Absorber on Your Canon PIXMA MG2520

Important Note: This process involves resetting the ink absorber counter, which can void your warranty. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
You will need:

• A small screwdriver
• A clean cloth or paper towels
• A computer with an internet connection

Steps:
1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power outlet.
2. Open the printer’s front cover and remove the ink cartridges.
3. Locate the ink absorber reset button. This button is usually located near the ink cartridge area, often hidden under a small flap or cover.
4. Press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds. This will reset the ink absorber counter.
5. Reinstall the ink cartridges and close the printer cover.
6. Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
Additional Tips:

• Clean the print head: After resetting the ink absorber, it’s a good idea to clean the print head to prevent future ink leaks. Refer to your printer’s manual for instructions.
• Check for ink leaks: If you notice any ink leaks, inspect the ink cartridges for damage and replace any faulty cartridges.
• Use genuine Canon ink cartridges: Using non-genuine ink cartridges can increase the risk of ink leaks and damage to the printer.

Preventing Ink Absorber Issues: Best Practices

• Use genuine Canon ink cartridges: Genuine cartridges are designed to work seamlessly with your printer and minimize the risk of leaks.
• Clean the print heads regularly: Cleaning the print heads helps prevent ink buildup and reduces the need for frequent cleaning cycles, which can strain the ink absorber.
• Don’t leave the printer idle for long periods: If you’re not using the printer frequently, consider running a cleaning cycle every few weeks to prevent ink from drying out and clogging the print heads.
• Monitor your ink levels: Keep an eye on your ink levels and replace cartridges when they get low to avoid ink leaks.
• Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity: Store your printer in a cool, dry environment to prevent ink from thickening and clogging the print heads.

Moving Beyond the Error: A Clean Printer and a Clear Path Forward

By following these steps and adhering to best practices, you can effectively clean the ink absorber on your Canon PIXMA MG2520, resolve the “Ink Absorber Full” error, and keep your printer functioning smoothly. Remember, a clean printer is a happy printer, and a happy printer means you can continue to enjoy printing your photos, documents, and other important materials.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Can I reset the ink absorber without cleaning it?
While you can reset the ink absorber counter without physically cleaning it, it’s not recommended. The ink absorber will eventually become full again, and you may face the same error message. Cleaning the absorber is essential for maintaining a healthy and reliable printing experience.
2. How often should I clean the ink absorber?
The frequency of cleaning depends on your printing habits. If you print frequently, you might need to clean it every few months. However, if you only print occasionally, cleaning it annually may suffice.
3. What if the “Ink Absorber Full” error persists after cleaning?
If the error persists even after cleaning and resetting the absorber, there might be a hardware issue with your printer. It’s best to contact Canon support or a qualified technician for assistance.
4. Can I replace the ink absorber myself?
While replacing the ink absorber is possible, it’s a more complex process that requires specialized tools and knowledge. It’s generally recommended to contact a Canon service center for a professional replacement.