Storing printer when not in use

[kat.hayes]

I have a Epson R1800 and will not be using it on a regular basis. I am going to keep it covered to prevent it from getting too dusty, besides that:

1.) Is there anything I should do to it when I do not print with it for periods of time?

2.) Is there anything I can do to prevent the ink from drying or becoming clogged?

thanks!!!

[Visual Reality]

How long are we talking? A month is fine. Several months probably isn't, and I would remove the ink tanks and seal them each in their own plastic bag. It wouldn't hurt to remove the print head as well if your printer allows it.

[kat.hayes]

Should I try to print every so often to ensure the heads do not get clogged? I know I read something about that a few years ago, not sure if it is still recommended with newer printers.

Thanks!

[Visual Reality]

It is a good idea, but with modern printers I don't think doing so more than once a month is necessary. And you don't need to waste ink on a full-paper image either, just a web page with some different colored texts would be fine.

The other issue is power use, and power-up time. Some printers can take forever to power up, which is why I leave my Pixma MP810 (http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelDetailAct&fcategoryid=116&modelid=13799) on all the time (it stays in Standby). If you won't be using yours very often you may as well turn it off.