Epson EcoTank EWT-2980 Paper Jam Fix, How to Fix It

A paper jam can bring your printing to a complete stop, especially when you're in the middle of an important task. If your Epson EcoTank EWT-2980 reports a paper jam even after you've removed the paper, refuses to continue printing, displays repeated error messages, or pauses every time you send a document, you're dealing with a common printer issue. While trapped paper is often the obvious cause, outdated or damaged printer software can also prevent Windows from recognizing that the problem has been resolved. This guide explains the most effective ways to clear paper jam errors and restore normal printing on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Quick Fix Checklist

Before moving on to detailed troubleshooting, try these simple steps first.

Turn off the printer.
Carefully remove any jammed or torn paper.
Inspect the paper tray and rear access area.
Reload fresh, undamaged paper.
Restart both the printer and your computer.
Clear any pending print jobs.
Update your printer software.
Print a test page.

If the paper jam warning still appears, continue with the solutions below.

What Causes Paper Jam Errors?

Most people assume a paper jam always means paper is physically stuck inside the printer. While that is often true, Windows may continue displaying the error even after the paper has been removed.

Your printer depends on software installed on your computer to exchange information with Windows. This software reports printer status, sends print jobs, and communicates hardware conditions. When it becomes outdated, damaged, or incompatible after a Windows update, Windows may continue showing old error messages, including paper jam notifications.

Other possible causes include:

Small scraps of paper left inside the printer.
Dust blocking internal paper sensors.
Damp, curled, or damaged paper.
Overloaded paper tray.
Dirty paper feed rollers.
Interrupted print jobs.
Communication problems between Windows and the printer.

Addressing both the physical printer and the software helps eliminate recurring paper jam errors.

Method 1: Update Printer Software Using DriverAssist (Recommended)

One of the quickest ways to eliminate false paper jam errors is by installing the latest printer software.

DriverAssist automatically scans your system, detects outdated printer software, and installs the correct version without requiring you to search manually.

Follow These Steps

Download DriverAssist using the following link.
Install the application.
Open DriverAssist.
Start a full system scan.
Wait while outdated printer software is detected.
Install the recommended update.
Restart your computer.
Print a test page.

This method saves time and helps ensure your printer is using compatible software for your version of Windows.

Method 2: Download the Latest Printer Software from Epson

If you prefer updating manually, you can install the latest printer software from Epson.

Steps

Visit Epson's support website.
Search for Epson EcoTank EWT-2980.
Select the exact printer model.
Choose the correct operating system.

For Windows 11:

Windows 11 64 bit

For Windows 10:

Windows 10 64 bit
Windows 10 32 bit, if available

Download the latest printer software package.
Run the installation file.
Restart your computer.
Test the printer.

Common Installation Errors

Avoid these common mistakes:

Downloading software for a similar Epson model.
Selecting the wrong Windows version.
Skipping the restart after installation.
Leaving outdated printer software installed.

Always confirm both the printer model and operating system before downloading.

Method 3: Update the Printer Through Device Manager

Windows Device Manager may locate a compatible software update.

Steps

Press Windows + X.
Select Device Manager.
Expand Printers.
Locate the Epson EcoTank EWT-2980.
Right click the printer.
Select Update driver.
Click Search automatically for drivers.
Complete the installation.
Restart Windows.

Keep in Mind

Device Manager only searches Microsoft's software library, which may not include Epson's latest printer software.

Remove Jammed Paper Safely

Removing paper correctly helps prevent further damage.

Steps

Turn the printer off.
Open every paper access cover.
Slowly pull the paper in the normal paper path direction.
Remove even the smallest paper fragments.
Check the rear paper feed area.
Close every cover securely.
Turn the printer back on.

Never pull paper forcefully, as doing so may damage the paper feed rollers or internal sensors.

Examine the Paper Feed Rollers

Dirty rollers often lead to repeated paper jams.

Look for:

Dust buildup.
Torn paper pieces.
Dirt on the rubber rollers.
Signs of roller wear.

Use a soft, lint free cloth slightly dampened with water to clean the rollers. Allow them to dry completely before printing again.

Load Paper Correctly

Improper paper loading frequently causes recurring jams.

For reliable printing:

Use clean, dry paper.
Avoid mixing different paper sizes.
Do not overload the input tray.
Adjust the paper guides correctly.
Straighten the paper stack before loading.

These simple steps reduce feeding problems significantly.

Why This Problem Keeps Coming Back

Some users clear one paper jam only to experience another a few days later.

Repeated paper jams often occur because of:

Dust inside the paper path.
Worn feed rollers.
Poor quality paper.
Incorrect paper loading.
Outdated printer software.
Windows updates affecting printer communication.

Regular maintenance combined with current printer software helps prevent recurring problems.

Keep Printer Software Updated Automatically

Many printer issues begin after Windows updates introduce compatibility changes.

Using automatic update software helps keep your printer software current, reducing communication errors that may trigger paper jam messages even when no paper is stuck.

Keeping printer software updated also improves compatibility with future Windows updates.

Windows 10 and Windows 11

The troubleshooting process is nearly identical on both operating systems.

Windows 11 stores printer settings inside Bluetooth & devices, while Windows 10 continues using Control Panel for many printer management tasks.

Regardless of which version you use, updated printer software remains an important part of maintaining reliable communication between Windows and your printer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Epson EcoTank EWT-2980 still say there is a paper jam?

Small paper fragments, blocked sensors, or outdated printer software may cause Windows to continue displaying the paper jam error after the obstruction has been removed.

Can printer software affect paper jam messages?

Yes. Damaged or outdated printer software may prevent Windows from updating the printer's current status correctly, causing old error messages to remain.

What type of paper should I use?

Always use clean, flat paper that matches Epson's recommended specifications. Curled or damp paper is more likely to jam.

Should I clean the paper rollers?

Yes. Dirty rollers can lose grip on the paper, causing repeated feeding problems and paper jams.

Does Device Manager install the newest printer software?

Not always. Device Manager only searches Microsoft's software catalog, which may not contain the latest version available from Epson.

How can I reduce future paper jams?

Use quality paper, avoid overloading the tray, keep the paper path clean, inspect the rollers regularly, and keep your printer software updated.

Final Thoughts

Paper jam errors on the Epson EcoTank EWT-2980 are not always caused by paper trapped inside the printer. Communication issues between Windows and the printer can also cause paper jam messages to remain after the problem has been cleared. Start with the Quick Fix Checklist, then update your printer software using DriverAssist for the fastest solution. If necessary, manually install the latest software from Epson, inspect the paper path, clean the feed rollers, and reload the paper correctly. Regular maintenance and updated printer software will help keep your printer operating reliably.