How to Avoid a Printer Jam
Last Updated on May 12, 2017 by Christian Ralph
Printers are some of the most essential tools for running a business. Whether its legal paperwork or the latest plans for a building, companies have the constant need to use a printer.
But have you even been in a rush when a paper jam has occurred? Read on to discover why this nightmare happens and how to avoid it.
What is a printer jam?
A printer jam is when paper gets stuck in the printer, causing it to stop working. When this happens, the paper needs to be removed manually and is likely to be ripped or torn in the process. You may notice some fault warning lights flash up on your printer.
Why does a printer get jammed?
There are many reasons why a printer jam might happen. It could be that the paper you are trying to print on is damp. The paper could be of low quality or not the type designed to be used with your specific printer. A printer jam can also occur when you load the paper incorrectly, or when there is dust and static present on the paper.
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How to fix a printer paper jam
1. Turn off the printer
2. Open all the latches to see where the paper is stuck
3. Check for askew paper and gently pull the sheets to remove them from the printer
4. Close all the latches and turn the printer back on. It should reset by itself.
5. If the printer still refuses to print, check again for loose scraps of paper.
6. If the printer declines to print, you will need to contact a printer repair company for a possible repair to a broken part.
How to avoid a printer paper jam in future
You may be tempted to buy cheaper paper but to avoid a paper jam, it’s best to buy the paper recommended by your printer’s manufacturer. This will be noted in your manual. You should also be careful not to mix two types of paper.
If you need to print on thicker paper, the best idea is to use the manual feeding tray at the front of the machine as it helps provide a straighter path for the paper and thus, avoid paper jams. Make sure you don’t overload the tray.
A good way to stop the printer becoming jammed, is to fan the paper before you put it in the tray as this will shake out any dust and reduce static, which are two major causes of paper jams.
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Another way to avoid a printer paper jam is to keep your machine clean. You can do this by taking a soft cloth to wipe down the rollers which hold the paper tray. This tip can also help prevent any paper slippage. Excess dust should be wiped away from the ink or toner cartridges.
It helps to keep your printer out of humid conditions and it should be stored properly when not in use.
If you need any further tips on how to keep your printer jam-free, contact our team of experts today who would be happy to advise on the best type of paper and storage for your printer.
