Paper jams are a common and frustrating problem that can grind business productivity to a halt. As an elite printer and copier dealer, WiZiX Technology Group wants to ease that frustration as much as possible with a few tips and tricks. Read on to learn more about how to fix a paper jam so you can get your business back to efficient productivity.
How to Determine Why Your Machine Is Jamming
Before you can take action on fixing a paper jam, first you need to figure out what is causing the problem. You can prevent most jams by properly maintaining and caring for your office equipment, but sometimes a paper jam is simply inevitable.
Common Causes of Printer and Copier Paper Jams
- Inserting paper incorrectly
- Overloading the paper tray
- Using the wrong paper size
- Humidity causing the paper to swell
- Damaged rollers or other machine parts
- Torn, wrinkled, or otherwise damaged paper in the tray
- Using toner or ink cartridges that are low quality or incompatible with the printer
How To Fix a Paper Jam
Step 1: Turn off and Unplug the Machine
Cancel all jobs currently sent to the machine, then turn it off and unplug it. This is the most important step, because it will keep you safe while you inspect the machine. If you have a laser printer, you will need to give it at least half an hour to cool off after unplugging it to prevent burns.
Step 2: Examine the Paper Tray
Start by removing all of the paper from the tray. Then, check the opening where the paper feeds out. Remove any stuck pieces by very slowly pulling the paper in the direction it would feed out, one sheet at a time.
Make sure to remove all bits of paper from the feeder, no matter how small. Once you have finished this step, you can reload the paper into the tray.
Step 3: Access the Inside of the Machine
Next, examine the rest of the paper’s path through the printer. Open the door or panel that gives you access to the rollers. Again, carefully pull any stuck paper out slowly and remove all bits of paper left afterward.
Now is a good time to check the rollers for debris and give them a cleaning. Clean them by gently using a soft, damp towel to help prevent further jamming. If the rollers do not turn easily, you will most likely need to replace them.
Step 4: Turn on the Machine
Close all the doors and panels and plug in the machine before turning it on. Print a test page to make sure that everything is in working order.
How to Avoid Paper Jams
Not all paper jams can be avoided, but you can prevent most of them by taking care of your office equipment. Frequent paper jams most often result from improper use. Make sure to load the paper correctly and use the right paper size as well as the correct toner or ink cartridges for your printer.
Copier and Printer Maintenance in California
If your attempts at fixing a paper jam were unsuccessful, then there may be a more serious problem that requires a maintenance technician. At WiZiX Technology Group in California, we know how to fix a paper jam! We offer a variety of service and maintenance agreements for keeping your copier or printer in top shape. If your printer or copier needs maintenance, call 1-866-846-1411 to speak with a representative.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (6/14/2021). Photo by Christa Dodoo on Unsplash