subject: Printer Paper Jams [print this page] Now it's time to fix the problem so it won't happen again. Load the paper properly in the paper tray. Some printers, including inexpensive inkjets, require that you jump through several hoops to ensure the paper is loaded just right. Even if the paper looks like it's loaded correctly, it still might be slightly off, so remove all of the paper and reinsert it. Also, keep the paper tray full or nearly full as regularly as possible because near-empty trays tend to choke on those last few pieces of paper.
Check your manual to make sure you're using the correct paper type. Although many printers can handle various paper types, some models jam easily when you use the wrong paper. For example, copy paper tends to jam in certain laser printers, often because the printer grabs two or three sheets instead of one. If you don't have the manual and can't find documentation online, swap the paper with a different variety. Instead of slick paper, try grainier sheets so the printer rollers can clutch a single sheet. Avoid lightweight paper that has a high opacity and aim instead for at least 20-pound paper.
Sometimes even high-quality paper can jam, so check the condition of the paper. If it's wrinkled, curled, or earmarked, chances are it's not going to have a successful journey through the printer. Even paper that looks healthy could have problems, due to static electricity. Before you place a stack of paper in the printer's paper tray, quickly fan through the pages to eliminate the static and repeat this process with existing in-tray paper if you have paper jams.
If the paper still jams, grab a flashlight and take a closer look inside the HP printer parts. Foreign objects, such as paper clips and staples, can interfere with internal moving printer parts, so if you see anything wedged between rollers or otherwise loitering where it shouldn't, unplug your printer and carefully remove the object. Also, if you use your printer on a daily basis, internal parts, such as screws, can become loose over time and interfere with printer operation, so look for parts that appear out of place. Even screws that aren't out of place but are significantly loose can play a part in paper jams, so it doesn't hurt to tighten everything up, but remember to first unplug the printer.
If you're lucky, your paper jam is a one-time deal that you can fix by adjusting the paper or switching the paper type. Yet as you can see, even if the jams become chronic, there's often an obvious problem source that you can correct with a few steps.
