Abstract: An ink-jet recording apparatus has a level gauge communicating with both an ink storage unit and the atmosphere in order to detect the amount of remaining recording ink in the ink storage unit, and a sealing device for shielding the interior of the level gauge from the atmosphere.

Abstract: An ink jet recorder is provided with a recovery device for preventing unsatisfactory ink discharge of a recording head, the recovery device being provided with ink suction means having a cap covering an ink discharge port, a vent valve for opening and closing the interior of the cap with respect to the atmosphere and a suction pump for producing a negative pressure in the cap, and wiping means having a cleaning blade adapted to be advanced and retracted relative to the ink discharge port. The cleaning blade is protruded when a motor effecting the sequence operation of the ink suction means revolves in one direction, and is stopped at its retracted position when the motor revolves in the opposite drection.