Home and business users buy laserjet printers because these devices guarantee relatively lower printing costs and higher printing speeds. laserjet printers typically cost more than their inkjet counterparts but the buying decision should ideally be based on several other factors as well.
With proper upkeep and maintenance, a laserjet printer will continue to deliver optimal performance and provide many years of service.
No, you don’t need an elaborate printer maintenance plan.
A handful of guidelines, short procedures, and techniques that require a minimal amount of time will keep a laserjet printer in good shape for a long span of time.
Let’s take a look at the top seven tips on how to maintain a laserjet printer.
1. KEEP THE LASERJET PRINTER MANUAL IN A SAFE PLACE
The owner’s manual may contain detailed instructions on how to clean and maintain a device.
The manual will, for instance, have information on how to properly open a laserjet printer. While some printers open on a hinge, others have latches. Some may even require the use of screwdrivers.
Just make sure you do not void the manufacturer’s warranty by using screwdrivers to access the interior of a device.
User manuals also offer useful advice on how to troubleshoot common laserjet printer issues.
If you’ve lost your copy, you can find one on the manufacturer’s website.
2. USE THE CORRECT TYPE OF PAPER
Using the recommended type of paper for laserjet printing will not only ensure optimal output quality but also extend the life of your printer.
The wrong type of paper can
- Cause frequent paper jams, thereby increasing the possibility of damage to laserjet printer components
- Require more toner than necessary
3. USE THE PRINTER UTILITIES FEATURE
Several printer manufacturers provide software commonly referred to as Printer Utilities. This software can help detect, diagnose, and resolve various laserjet-printing problems.
You can use this tool to check the current status of your laserjet printer from time to time.
4. PROTECT YOURSELF WHEN START CLEANING A LASERJET PRINTER
To eliminate the possibility of electric shocks, be sure to turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source at least one hour before you begin cleaning it. Allow it to cool down.
While cleaning a laserjet printer, there is a risk of inhaling fine toner particles.
So, it is a good idea to wear a mask. You can also protect your skin by wearing latex gloves.
For maximum protection, turn off the AC (or fans) and keep the windows open.
5. HANDLING THE IMAGING DRUM
If you are using a laserjet printer for the first time, chances are that you don’t know about the differences between drum and toner.
The imaging drum is generally blue or bright green in color.
Always grab the drum from the sides. Avoid touching the surface.
Since the imaging drum is light-sensitive, be sure not to expose it to bright fluorescent light or sunlight. Place it in an area with no light while you clean the toner cartridge.
Read our guide to find out whether you need to replace a drum unit.
6. REMOVING THE TONER PARTICLES
Use a toner-activated cloth to wipe a toner cartridge.
Toner clothes are strong absorbent wipes specially designed to remove toner spillages quickly and safely.
Use a toner vacuum to suck out toner particles stuck in the crevices.
You can point the vacuum at each crevice (after having removed the imaging drum and the toner cartridge, of course) for around three-to-four seconds.
You can use a paintbrush to scrub toner built-up in hard-to-reach areas.
7. CLEANING THE CORONA WIRES
Corona wires attract electrically charged toner particles by transferring a static electrical charge onto the paper. These wires are generally located next to the paper rollers.
Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe these wires clean. All you need is a gentle scrub. Do not apply any pressure to quickly rid corona wires of any excess toner.
You can find swab sticks online or at your local office supplies store.
You can also use cotton swabs soaked in rubbing alcohol to wipe the paper feed roller as well as the exterior of your laserjet printer.
Strictly avoid spilling any cleaning solution directly onto your laserjet printer’s exterior or interior.
LASTLY, CHOOSE THE RIGHT TONER CARTRIDGE REFILL
Millions of home and business users buy compatible and remanufactured toner cartridges for Brother, HP, Canon, and Epson laserjet printers nowadays.
You can read our introductory guide on compatible vs. remanufactured vs.original cartridges if you don’t know about various low-cost alternatives to expensive original-brand toner cartridges.
But, make sure you always source replacement toner cartridges from a reputable source.
Low-quality toners sold by anonymous sellers online not only produce faded or blotchy prints but can also damage the device.
My sister bought a printer last month, but to her dismay, it’s cartridge started leaking, which is why she’s thinking of buying a new one. It’s also a good thing that you shared this; I’ll make sure to tell her that she must use the right paper for her printer because this will prevent paper jams. I’ll also keep in mind to tell him that he must wear a mask whenever she’s going to clean the cartridge.
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