When you need to print important documents at work or in your home office, a paper jam is your worst enemy. Fortunately, in many cases, the problem is easy enough to resolve without the need for printer repairs. Here’s a quick-fix guide on how to tackle a paper jam on your own. 

4 Steps to Fixing a Paper Jam

1. Shut Down the Printer

Shut the printer completely down and unplug it. Doing so will prevent you from becoming electrocuted or causing mechanical damage. If you use a laser printer, it’s wise to allow it to cool down for about 30 minutes before you continue to the next step. This is due to the heat generated by the fuser and rollers while it’s operating.

2. Empty the Paper Tray

Since most jams happen while the paper is being fed into the printer, empty the paper tray. If necessary, gently pull out any stuck pages. If the removed paper shows any signs of tearing or crumpling, recycle it and refill the tray with fresh paper.

3. Remove the Jammed Paper

Open the main door to your printer and gently pull the jammed pages out of the rollers without tearing them. If the paper does tear, attempt to retrieve all of it.

Particularly stubborn jams may require a professional’s attention. Only go further into the printer if you feel entirely confident about your ability to avoid damage that might affect your unit’s warranty.

Next, check the rollers for dirt and debris buildup and clean them with a dampened towel. While you’re in there, inspect the rollers to make sure they move with ease. If they don’t, you may need to replace them. 

4. Test the Printer 

Close the main door to your printer, plug it in, and turn it on. To test the printer, either resume your previous job or start a new one. If another paper jam occurs or you notice any other problems, contact a repair team. 

The next time you need printer repairs, get in touch with Alpha Laser Richmond Corp. Since 1993, they’ve provided printer, laptop, and copier repairs along with toner and ink cartridge recycling to clients throughout Staten Island, NY. Call (718) 317-1263 to book an appointment for printer repairs and visit them online to learn more about the brands they sell and service.