subject: Fixing The Most Common Printer, Copier, And Office Shredder Problems [print this page] No one likes having to call the repair service because their office copier or Xerox copy machine is on the fritz. What many people don't know is that 9 out of 10 printer and color copier problems can be fixed by even the luddites among us. Let's review what the most common, and most easy to fix, copier problems are.
The top issue undoubtedly is a paper jam. This problem is especially common if you use your copier to print stickers, envelopes, and other non-standard papers. A paper jam is when paper gets lodged in the printer and creates problems.
Simply open the printer as you would if you were putting in new ink. Chances are you will see 2 - 4 big plastic rollers. Examine them thoroughly. Make sure there is no paper or debris stuck anywhere in or around the wheels. Then clean them with a damp cloth or some computer cleaner. Also open the paper feeder, where there should be another set of rollers, and check those.
If you are still having problems with your copy machine or printer you need to check the ink cartridges. Since the ink cartridges move on a track, spraying ink as the paper moves by, they can also be prone to jamming. Check the track of the cartridges for obstructions like paper or other debris. Then check the cartridges or toner containers themselves. Has ink dried on the tip? Do they look like the integrity of package has been compromised? If they are dirty clean them off or replace them and then try again.
If you are still having issues you will want to reboot your printer. Unplug it from the power source, wait 30 seconds and plug it back in. It should make some odd noises, possibly print out a test sheet, and then return to normal. Attempt to print your project again and hopefully it will work.
Another place you will find jams often is the office shredder. Chances are your interns have been shredding CDs and other non-paper items with it. Make sure it is off and then open it up. Carefully clean the blades and the area between the blades and then plug it in again.
If these tricks don't work you may need to call your company's handyman or the manufacturer itself. If you lease from an office equipment supplier there is a good chance tech support is included in your package so it won't cost you a thing.
