To simplify the sequence of maintenance operation of a recording head while shortening the time required for maintenance operation.

At the time of performing a cleaning operation, a capping step (S11) for sealing the nozzle forming face of a recording head is carried out by a capping means. Under a state where the nozzle forming face is sealed by the capping means by carrying out the capping step, a step (S13) for driving a tube pump at a low speed is carried out. The tube pump performs an engaging operation for moving a press roller in the outer circumferential direction of a pump wheel and pressure deforming a flexible tube by means of the roller. Subsequently, a step (S14) for driving the tube pump at a high speed is carried out, thus performing a maintenance operation for sucking and discharging ink from a recording head.