Canon Pixma F20 Error Code Fix Guide

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What This Error Means

F20 on a Canon Pixma is a waste ink absorber full / ink counter overflow error.

Translation: the printer thinks the internal sponge pads that catch excess ink are saturated, so it locks printing to avoid an ink spill inside the machine.

Official Fix

Canon’s official line is: don’t bypass it, get it serviced. Here’s the clean version of what they expect you to do.

  • Power cycle first (the long shot):
    • Turn the printer off.
    • Unplug it from the wall for 1–2 minutes.
    • Plug back in and turn it on.
    • If F20 comes back, the internal counter is still tripped. Move on.
  • Check for obvious ink mess:
    • Lift the printer gently and look under it.
    • If you see wet ink spots or drips, place it on towels.
    • If ink is literally leaking, stop using it until pads are replaced.
  • What Canon service actually does:
    • Open the case and remove the waste ink absorber pads (foam blocks under the carriage/parking area).
    • Replace them with new pads or a complete absorber kit.
    • Use Canon service software to reset the internal waste‑ink counter.
    • Test print and check for leaks, then return the printer.
  • Your official options:
    • Book a Canon-authorized repair shop.
    • Or contact Canon support and ask for a quote for “waste ink absorber replacement / F20 service”.
    • On cheap Pixma models, they’ll often hint it’s cheaper to replace the whole unit.

That’s the manual-approved route: don’t reset it yourself, let a service center swap pads and clear the counter.

The Technician’s Trick

Here’s what real bench techs do when the printer’s out of warranty and the owner doesn’t want to pay shop prices. This is messy and at your own risk.

  • Rule #1: Don’t just reset a soaked printer.
    • If the pads are actually full, a software-only reset can make it overflow later.
    • If the base looks clean and you’re a light user, the pads are usually not physically full, just the counter is.
  • Minimal physical clean (if you’re handy with tools):
    • Unplug the printer. Let it sit 5–10 minutes.
    • Flip it so you can reach the bottom/back panel (lay a trash bag and old towel first).
    • Remove the screws on the bottom or rear cover (varies by model) and pop the panel off.
    • Look for white/gray foam pads near where the print head parks. That’s your waste ink absorber.
    • Carefully pull the pads out with gloves or pliers. They’ll be inky.
    • Rinse them in warm water until the water runs mostly clear. Squeeze, repeat. Do not use soap or solvents.
    • Let them dry completely (overnight is best). Never put dripping pads back in.
    • Reinstall the dry pads in the same orientation and close the printer back up.
  • Service mode reset (the inside move):
    • This only works if your Pixma model supports USB service tools. Most midrange Pixmas do; very low-end ones often don’t.
    • You’ll need a Windows PC and a Canon service tool that matches your model series.
    • Typical service mode entry on many Pixmas (may vary slightly):
      • Printer off, USB connected to the PC.
      • Hold Stop/Cancel, then press and hold Power.
      • Keep holding Power, release Stop.
      • Press the Stop button 5 times.
      • Release the Power button. The printer should power up with no normal startup, often with a blank or different display. That’s service mode.
    • On the PC, run the Canon service tool:
      • Select your printer from the list.
      • Find the function for Ink Absorber / Waste Ink Counter (labelled things like “Clear Ink Counter”, “Main”, or “Platen” depending on tool).
      • Click Set or Execute.
      • Wait for the printer to click/whirr and finish. Don’t unplug mid‑process.
      • Power the printer off, then on again normally.
    • If all went well, F20 is gone and the printer is usable again.
  • When this trick is a bad idea:
    • Ink visibly leaking from the printer base.
    • You’re not comfortable opening plastic clips and covers.
    • The printer is still under warranty (you’ll void it).

Bottom line: DIY reset works and is what a lot of small shops quietly do, but if the pads are a soggy mess, change or wash them before you clear that counter.

Is It Worth Fixing? (The Financial Verdict)

  • ✅ Fix: Midrange or photo Pixma, under ~5–6 years old, good print quality otherwise. You’re okay opening it or paying a modest bench fee.
  • ⚠️ Debatable: Cheap entry-level Pixma, light use, but you need it working today. If a new printer is on sale, compare total cost vs. repair or your time.
  • ❌ Replace: Printer is old, already has streaking/nozzle issues, multiple past errors, or a shop quote comes close to the price of a new machine with fresh warranty.

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