Paper jams are caused by a number of reasons beyond just improper loading, and each jam results in lost work time and potentially expensive repair costs.

Tips for Avoiding Paper Jams

Paper jams are a leading cause of copier repair in Las Vegas. An occasional paper jam is to be expected when dealing with large copier and printer volumes, but chronic paper jams are more than just annoyances and can result in a significant loss of productivity as well as substantial repair costs.

Paper Loading and Overfilling

Many offices assign the responsibility to a single person or a small group of people in order to avoid improper loading. The process isn’t difficult by any means, but it does demand some attention to detail. Ensure that the paper is clean and uniform, and discard any sheets that aren’t uniform. Perhaps the most common mistake people make is overfilling the paper tray. As a rule of thumb, only fill a paper tray to the two-thirds mark, which will lessen strain on the separation pad.

Paper Choice and Storage

Paper choice does matter. You obviously need a size that the copier supports, but you also want to avoid brands that are prone to irregularities. Another common problem area is storage. Humidity can actually make paper more likely to cause a jam even though the paper may look fine to the naked eye. If humidity is a problem, you may need to store the paper with a dehumidifier.

Toner Fit and Quality

A toner cartridge with an uneven edge can also result in frequent paper jams. You don’t necessarily have to avoid discount cartridges, but you should ensure that the casing is sealed and provides a tight, even fit. Refilling cartridges is also a concern because you have to be very careful not to alter the surface.

Sensor Damage and Other Hardware Issues

If you’re certain that paper, toner cartridges and technique aren’t a problem but you’re still experiencing chronic paper jams, then the issue may be hardware-related. Gunk may be the culprit if the machine hasn’t been cleaned in a while, and common hardware failures that can result in chronic paper jams are damaged input and exit sensors. At this point, you may need to call in a professional.