We’ve all experienced the frustration of a paper jam; no matter how small, big, old or new your printer is, they can happen from time to time.
Paper jams can occur for a number of reasons, from overfilling the paper tray, to using the wrong type of paper, but we have put together a list of simple ways to prevent and fix a paper next time you experience one.
How to avoid a paper jam
Paper jams are not only tedious, but they can cause permanent damage to your printer. Here are some simple steps for preventing future paper jams occurring I the first place:
Don’t overload your paper tray.
A lot of printers have sliding mechanisms to keep paper in place – using these will stop you from putting paper in awkward positions that could lead to a paper jam.
Make sure you’re using good quality paper that is suitable for your printer.
Don’t mix multiple types of paper in a single stack.
Clean your printer regularly to keep the paper pathways clear.
Tips for fixing a paper jam
Before you unknowingly stick your hands into the printer or open any doors or compartments, it is important for your own safety and for the health of the printer to understand your printer inside and out before tampering with it. Follow these steps next time your experience a jam.
Read the user manual
Firstly, it’s important to check the user manual to see if your printer has a built-in function that can detect where the paper jam is located. Some newer versions of printers can investigate where the paper jam is and will display this on the printer screen. It can then advise on how to treat the issue.
Turn the printer off
If your printer is a few years old, it’s likely that the detection feature isn’t available, therefore the first step would be to turn your printer off and wait for it to shut down completely. Removing jammed paper can be a fiddly process and the last thing you want to do is be troubled by moving parts that could cause further damage.
Sometimes the cartridge may need removing
If you’re having trouble removing the paper, the cartridge may need removing. Once you’ve located the cartridge, remove it carefully and once again pull the paper away slowly, but firmly.
Follow the path of the paper
The trick to successfully unjamming a printer is to follow the pathway of the paper. If you’ve stopped the printer mid-operation you don’t want to be interfering with this, as this could cause further issues. What’s more, trying to remove paper opposite to the direction it was moving could cause the paper to tear, leaving remains behind in your printer, which could cause even more paper jams in the future. It’s also important to remain patient – remove the paper slowly.
Inspect the rollers
Paper jams often occur as the paper passes between the two rollers. If the rollers turn easily when touched, rotate them slowly until you’re able to free the jammed paper. However, if the paper jam is more complicated, this may require removing the rollers; to do so, carefully remove one roller and lift it out of the printer to free the paper. It’s also important to note that many printer models require you to use a latch to release the rollers, so check your model’s user manual before touching the rollers.
Having trouble with your office printer? Here at Elite Office Solutions help businesses effectively manage their printer systems. Get in touch with us on 01962 864 332 to see how much you could save on your printing.