Fixing a Paper Jam
Paper jams are common and usually easy to fix.
Safety First
- Turn off the printer before removing jammed paper
- Let it cool if it's been printing a lot
- Be gentle - don't force or tear the paper
Finding the Jam
The printer display usually shows where the jam is:
- Input tray - Paper feeding in
- Output tray - Paper coming out
- Inside the printer - In the paper path
- Duplex unit - If printing double-sided
Clearing the Jam
Step 1: Open Access Doors
Most printers have doors or panels that open to reveal the paper path:
- Front panel
- Rear access door
- Top cover
- Side panels
Step 2: Remove the Paper
- Gently pull the paper in the direction it was travelling
- Pull slowly and evenly
- Don't tear the paper - you'll need to remove all pieces
- Check for small torn pieces
Step 3: Check Rollers
Look for any stuck paper around the rubber rollers. Remove any scraps.
Step 4: Close Everything
- Close all doors and panels
- Make sure they click shut
Step 5: Turn Printer Back On
- Power on the printer
- Wait for it to initialise
- Try printing again
Preventing Paper Jams
Paper handling:
- Fan the paper before loading
- Don't overfill the tray
- Use the correct paper size
- Store paper in a dry place
- Don't use wrinkled or damp paper
- Clean rollers periodically
- Remove paper when not in use for long periods
- Use good quality paper
Common Causes
Incorrect paper:
- Wrong size for the tray
- Too thick or too thin
- Damaged or curled paper
- Overfilled tray
- Paper not aligned properly
- Guides not set correctly
- Worn rollers (needs servicing)
- Dirty rollers
- Foreign objects inside
When to Call IT
Contact IT if:
- Jams happen frequently
- You can't reach the paper
- Paper keeps tearing inside
- The printer shows an error after clearing
Need Help?
For printer issues, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.
Was this article helpful?
Still Need Help?
If you are still having trouble, our support team is here to help.