6 Copier Problems And What To Do About Them
Photocopier rage is a real thing! It’s almost as if the machine knows when there’s a sense of urgency and decides that’s just the point to stop working. Thankfully, most problems are easily rectified, allowing you to quickly get on with the job in hand (not to mention allowing your blood pressure to return to normal…)
The following are 6 of the most common copier problems and how to fix them.
Copier problem #1: Toner issues
Nothing is guaranteed to wind you up more than that frustrating beep followed by an error message saying, ‘toner empty’. “Hey, (insert name of colleague who you suspected last used the machine) — thanks for leaving it to me to sort out…!”
However, this is one of the easiest copier problems to put right — all you need do is replace the toner cartridge.
Other toner challenges include manufacturer errors or incompatibility issues, which are usually caused by using poor quality copies or the wrong cartridge. Replace with a genuine one and voila! You’re ready to rock n roll…
Rage rating: 4/5
Easy fix rating: 5/5
Copier problem #2: Paper jams
Super common, this is more of an annoyance than an issue. Paper jams are caused by improper paper loading, using the wrong size paper or an accumulation of paper dust clogging the internal workings.
Remove the jammed paper, check that it’s the correct size and neatly organised and regularly wipe the paper feed elements to remove the build-up of dust.
Rage rating: 1/5
Easy fix rating: 5/5
Copier problem #3: Spots on the pages
Random dots or groups of dots on an otherwise pristine copy might or might not be an irritation. If you’re making an official copy then, yes, it certainly does matter. But in other cases you might put up with it. Either way, it’s best to address the issue sooner rather than later.
The most common cause is debris or smudges on the glass or mirror element of the machine. Cleaning this will remove the problem. A rather more difficult (and expensive) reason is a defect in the drum of the copier. In such a case there’s likely to be dots across the whole document. It’ll need an engineer to diagnose and replace the drum.
Rage rating: 2/5
Easy fix rating: Depending on the cause — from 1/5–5/5
Copier problem #4: Wrinkled pages
Aside from being caused by the paper itself being damaged (which is obvious to see), this is usually the result of wear and tear to the copier itself. The feed mechanisms can become worn over time, as can the paper tray and assembly elements. If it’s the paper tray, you can simply order a replacement. But anything else will require a specialist technician.
Rage rating: 5/5
Easy fix rating: 2/5
Copier problem #5: Copies are too light/too dark
Usually a simple fix, it’s often because the settings are wrongly balanced. Delve into the menu of the copier and reset the density levels will usually be all that’s needed to solve the problem. It could also be caused by a faulty toner cartridge, so change this if resetting the density doesn’t work. The last reason is that the drum needs replacing, which will need an engineer visit to put right.
Rage rating: 1/5
Easy fix rating: 5/5
Contact Advanced Document Solutions for Printer, Copier & MDF Maintenance
The best way to ensure your copier, printer or MDF works as expected is through regular maintenance (and to have the right installation for your needs). Perth-based Advanced Document Solutions are the go-to provider for WA businesses and have been servicing the region’s printer and copier needs for over 25 years.
Find out more at advanceddocumentsolutions.com.au or give them a call on 08 9443 5557 to discuss your company requirements.
