Paper Jams Explained: Prevention and Quick Fixes
Why printers jam, how to clear a jam without damaging the machine, and the simple habits that stop jams happening in the first place.
Paper jams are the most common printer complaint and almost always avoidable. Here is why they happen, how to clear one safely, and how to stop them recurring.
Why printers jam
- Overfilled or poorly fanned paper trays.
- Damp, curled or low-quality paper.
- The wrong paper weight for the machine.
- Worn pickup rollers on an ageing device.
- Debris or torn fragments left inside from a previous jam.
Clearing a jam safely
Power down if the manual advises it, then pull jammed paper gently in the direction of the paper path, never against it. Remove the whole sheet so no fragments remain. Avoid sharp tools that can scratch rollers or the drum. Check every access door before restarting.
Preventing jams
- Fan a fresh ream before loading and do not overfill the tray.
- Store paper flat in a dry place to avoid curl and moisture.
- Use the paper weight the machine is rated for.
- Keep rollers clean and replace worn ones during servicing.
When it is the machine
Frequent jams on an older device often mean worn rollers or a machine past its comfortable duty cycle. If servicing does not fix it, the device may be due for replacement.
If a tired machine is jamming constantly, weigh the cost of repeated callouts against a replacement. See what a suitable new device would cost for your volumes.