Just like a car.
Printers, much like cars, rely on moving parts that require regular care and maintenance to function at their best. Regular upkeep and using the right “fuel” — in this case, quality toner and paper — are essential for smooth operation. However, if a printer is neglected or placed in a damp, dusty environment, its performance is likely to decline over time.
Both the working environment and the materials you use play a critical role in maintaining optimal performance.
This brings us to the common question: “Why does the Photocopier keep jamming?”
For many organisations, copiers and printers are essential to daily operations. A breakdown can disrupt workflow and negatively impact productivity. How long can your business afford to function without a working copier—minutes, hours, or even days?
Paper jams are more than just an annoyance; they’re a drain on time, resources, and efficiency. Left unchecked, these issues can slow down your team and cost your business. The solution? Prevention. By taking proactive steps, you can keep your equipment running smoothly and maintain productivity in your office.
Tips to Avoid Paper Jams
Discover simple yet effective strategies to prevent the frustration of paper jams. By taking a few proactive steps now, you can ensure your machine operates smoothly and reliably for the long haul.
1. Pay Attention to Your Paper
Proper paper handling is essential for maintaining your copier’s performance. While your machine may have a maximum capacity of 2,000 sheets, that doesn’t mean you should load it to the brim.
Stick to Your Machine’s Specifications
Overloading the paper tray can cause sheets to stick together, leading to multiple pages being pulled through the rollers at once. This can disrupt your copier’s operation and result in paper jams throughout the machine, which can be time-consuming to resolve.
If your copier frequently operates at full capacity, it might be worth considering an upgrade to a larger machine designed to handle higher workloads more efficiently.
Use the Correct Paper Thickness
The weight of the paper plays a key role in your copier’s performance. Always consult your device’s manual to ensure you’re using paper within the recommended weight range.
Using paper that exceeds your copier’s maximum specifications can lead to jams. Additionally, remember to adjust the paper settings to account for weight differences, and avoid mixing paper weights in the same tray to prevent issues. Feeding thinner paper, such as 70gsm stock, without adjusting the printer’s settings can also cause jams and other issues. If the correct paper type—such as “Light Paper” or the 60-74gsm range—is not selected, thinner paper can interfere with the printer’s operation by causing the fuser to overheat, therefore causing jams and other internal issues; such as developer failures. Refer to related article: Importance of selecting the correct “Paper Type” on laser printers. 70gsm vs. 80gsm.
If you need to quickly copy onto cardstock and prefer to bypass the paper tray, use your copier’s bypass option. Placing heavy-weight paper on top of standard paper in the tray can confuse the machine, increasing the risk of a jam.
Paper Storage Environment
To ensure optimal performance from your copier, paper should be stored in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. The condition of the paper is heavily influenced by its storage environment, and improper handling can significantly impact your copier’s functionality.
Once paper is removed from its packaging, it begins to absorb moisture from the surrounding air. This moisture causes the paper fibers to expand, altering its dimensions, flatness, and strength. These changes can compromise the paper’s ability to perform effectively in your printer, as flatness and consistent dimensions are essential for smooth operation. Proper storage is key to maintaining both the quality of the paper and the performance of your equipment.
2. Choose Quality Over $$$
Cheaper isn’t always better. Investing a bit more in high-quality toner and paper ensures your copier runs smoothly and saves you time and frustration in the long run.
Cheap Toner Leads to Paper Jams
Using low-quality toner can leave residue on your printer’s internal components. Over time, this build-up not only diminishes print quality but also increases the likelihood of paper jams.
Additionally, if your printer has been unused for an extended period, it’s a good idea to replace the toner cartridge. Old toner can lead to printing issues and contribute to jamming problems.
Cheap Paper Leads to Paper Jams
The same focus on quality should extend to the paper you use. Cheap, low-grade paper may seem like an economical or eco-friendly option due to its “recycled” label, but it’s far from ideal for your copiers and printers.
Inferior paper produces tiny particles, known as “paper dust,” which accumulate inside your machine. This dust is a leading cause of paper jams—more dust means more frequent jams. Beyond the inconvenience, it also degrades print quality and accelerates wear and tear on your machine’s components.
Think of it this way: you wouldn’t put low-octane fuel in a high-performance car, would you? The same principle applies to your office equipment—prioritise quality to ensure optimal performance.
3. Routine Printer Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your devices running smoothly. A simple habit, like powering down or setting your machine to sleep mode at the end of the day, allows it to perform a self-cleaning cycle. This small step can significantly enhance your copier’s performance between scheduled services.
Routine cleanings by a professional technician are equally important. For those with a managed print services contract, maintenance is often included—be sure to confirm with your provider.
Over time, daily use can wear down feed rollers, reducing their traction and causing frequent paper jams – much like tyres on a car. A technician can identify and replace worn rollers before they cause disruptions, while also removing any dust or debris inside the machine. These proactive visits help prevent downtime and reduce unexpected service calls.
Reliable office equipment is essential for consistent productivity. At Oztech, we are dedicated to keeping your devices in top shape. Need to schedule maintenance or order supplies? We’re here to help!
See also: “Importance of selecting the correct “Paper Type” on laser printers”
