Copier Maintenance

Troubleshooting your copier

It doesn’t really matter if you have a small inexpensive discount copier or a top of the line color digital model, you will still have to do some routine maintenance on it to keep it running properly. Even if you have a service agreement there are little things you should do yourself. These are a few tips that may help keep your copier in good working order. Remember these are preventative maintenance suggestions and not repairs.

• You can help reduce paper jams by fanning the copier paper by hand before putting it in the copier because the rollers may try to pull more than one sheet through and cause a paper jam.

• Don't keep the lid up when making copies as it will prevent the copier from monitoring how much toner to use and it often results in a thick layer of black toner. The hot toner acts like a glue and may stick to the belt or it could wrap around the roller, causing a jam.
• When taking out jammed paper, try to avoid tearing it off and leaving a piece inside.
• Check your original document paper for curls and wrinkles before putting them into the copier as small creases can cause a jam.
• Clean the glass everyday to remove dirt. This will help reduce electrostatic charge and helps the paper to slide through the copier.
• Keep all paper clips, staplers and elastic bands away from the copier as they can cause serious damage if they get into the housing or drum.
• When changing cartridges make sure to clean up any toner that spills as the toner particles collect inside the copier and may settle on a sensor which will preventing the copier from working.
• Never use sharp objects to remove a paper jam. Scissors, knives and pens can cause damage to belts and rollers.
• If you’re having a problem with your copier read the troubleshooting section of the owner’s manual for an explanation and follow the instructions.
• Make sure that all employees are trained on proper use of the copier.
• Keep your copier 6 to 12 inches from the wall to make sure it’s properly ventilated as air needs to circulate around the electronic circuit boards inside of it.
• If possible, keep the copier in an air conditioned room to reduce humidity as humid air can cause paper to stick together.

You can buy copier maintenance kits to help keep your discount copier or newer copier in good condition. Most of these kits include items such as glass and mirror cleaner, machine cleaner, compressed air, lubricant, wiping cloths, toner drop mats, and protective gloves.