I don't know if it is to be expected, but if I'm not printing, I print a test every week. If I forget for just one week, I can expect to have to run a auto clean cycle. I still come out way ahead vs. 3800, but it's frustrating, I know. I do print on both ends of an 8.5x11 so ink+paper per week is minimal, but going through the paces is an unexpected PITA.
Dave