Prevention is Better Than Cure

Most printer problems are preventable with proper care. Understanding common issues helps you avoid costly repairs and downtime.

Paper Jams: The #1 Problem

Causes:

  • Poor quality or damp paper
  • Overfilled paper trays
  • Worn feed rollers
  • Mixed paper sizes in one tray

Prevention:

  • Use quality 80gsm paper
  • Store paper flat in dry conditions
  • Fan paper before loading
  • Fill trays to 80% capacity maximum
  • Clean feed rollers monthly

Poor Print Quality

Symptoms: Faded prints, streaks, spots, or ghosting

Causes and Fixes:

  • Fading: Low toner or incorrect density settings
  • Streaks: Dirty drum or contaminated toner
  • Spots: Debris on drum or fuser
  • Ghosting: Worn fuser or drum unit

Network Connectivity Issues

Prevention:

  • Use static IP addresses for printers
  • Document network settings
  • Keep firmware updated
  • Ensure proper network infrastructure

Toner and Supply Issues

Best Practices:

  • Use genuine supplies for reliability
  • Order replacements when "Low" warning appears
  • Store toner in original packaging until needed
  • Never shake toner cartridges roughly

When Problems Persist

Some issues require professional diagnosis. Attempting DIY repairs can worsen problems or void warranties. Contact ilexDigital for expert troubleshooting in Nairobi.