What To Know
- A jammed paper can bring your printing to a screeching halt, leaving you wondering how to reset your Brother printer after a paper jam.
- This guide will equip you with the necessary steps to troubleshoot and reset your Brother printer after a paper jam, getting you back to printing in no time.
- Paper jams happen when a sheet of paper gets stuck in the printer’s paper path, preventing the smooth flow of documents.
Paper jams are a common frustration for anyone who owns a printer, and Brother printers are no exception. A jammed paper can bring your printing to a screeching halt, leaving you wondering how to reset your Brother printer after a paper jam.
This guide will equip you with the necessary steps to troubleshoot and reset your Brother printer after a paper jam, getting you back to printing in no time.
Understanding Paper Jams
Before we delve into the reset process, let’s understand why paper jams occur. Paper jams happen when a sheet of paper gets stuck in the printer’s paper path, preventing the smooth flow of documents. This can be caused by several factors, including:
- Overloading the paper tray: Adding too much paper to the tray can lead to jams as the sheets bind together.
- Using incompatible paper: Using paper that’s too thick, too thin, or has a textured surface can cause jams.
- Damaged paper: Torn or creased paper can easily get stuck in the printer’s rollers.
- Foreign objects: Items like staples, paper clips, or even dust can obstruct the paper path.
- Mechanical issues: Sometimes, the printer’s rollers or other internal components might malfunction, causing jams.
Step 1: Power Cycle Your Brother Printer
The first step in resolving a paper jam is to power cycle your Brother printer. This simple procedure often resolves minor glitches that might be causing the jam:
1. Turn off your Brother printer: Press the power button and wait for the printer to completely shut down.
2. Unplug the power cord: Disconnect the power cord from the printer and the wall outlet.
3. Wait for a few minutes: Allow the printer to rest for at least 30 seconds. This allows the internal components to reset.
4. Plug the power cord back in: Connect the power cord to the printer and then to the wall outlet.
5. Turn on the printer: Press the power button to turn the printer back on.
After the power cycle, attempt to print a test page. If the paper jam persists, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Manually Remove the Jammed Paper
If the power cycle doesn‘t resolve the jam, you’ll need to manually remove the jammed paper. Here’s how:
1. Open the printer cover: Locate the cover that provides access to the paper path. This cover is usually marked with a “paper jam” icon.
2. Locate the jammed paper: Carefully inspect the paper path to find the jammed sheet. You might need to use a flashlight to see clearly.
3. Remove the jammed paper: Gently pull the jammed paper out of the printer. Avoid tearing or ripping the paper, as this can damage the printer’s internal components.
4. Close the printer cover: Once the jammed paper is removed, close the printer cover securely.
Step 3: Clean the Printer Rollers
Dirty or dusty printer rollers can contribute to paper jams. Cleaning the rollers can help prevent future jams:
1. Open the printer cover: Locate the cover that provides access to the rollers.
2. Locate the rollers: The rollers are usually rubber cylinders located near the paper path.
3. Clean the rollers: Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to clean the rollers. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
4. Dry the rollers: Allow the rollers to air dry completely before closing the printer cover.
Step 4: Reset the Brother Printer
If the paper jam persists after trying the previous steps, you may need to reset your Brother printer to factory defaults. This will clear any temporary settings or configurations that might be causing the jam.
1. Locate the reset button: The reset button is usually located on the back or bottom of the printer. It might be labeled “Reset” or have a small arrow symbol.
2. Press and hold the reset button: Press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds.
3. Release the reset button: After 10 seconds, release the reset button.
4. Turn the printer on: Press the power button to turn the printer back on.
The printer will now be reset to its factory settings. You may need to reconfigure your printer settings, such as Wi-Fi connection, after resetting.
Step 5: Seek Professional Help
If none of the above steps resolve the paper jam, it’s time to seek professional help. Contact Brother customer support or a qualified technician to diagnose and repair any underlying mechanical issues.
Beyond the Reset: Preventing Future Jams
Now that you’ve successfully reset your Brother printer, let’s take steps to prevent future paper jams:
- Use high-quality paper: Always use paper that’s compatible with your Brother printer. Avoid using paper that’s too thick, too thin, or has a textured surface.
- Don’t overload the paper tray: Only add a reasonable amount of paper to the tray. Overloading can lead to jams.
- Keep the paper tray clean: Remove any dust or debris from the paper tray regularly.
- Avoid using damaged paper: Don’t use torn, creased, or wrinkled paper.
- Inspect the paper path: Periodically check the paper path for any foreign objects or obstructions.
Moving Forward: A Smooth Printing Experience
By following these steps, you should be able to reset your Brother printer after a paper jam and get back to printing seamlessly. Remember, prevention is key. By following the tips above, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of future paper jams and enjoy a smooth printing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if my Brother printer still shows a paper jam error after I’ve removed the jammed paper?
A: If the error persists, there might be a residual piece of paper stuck in the printer. Carefully inspect the paper path again, using a flashlight if necessary. You might need to access hard-to-reach areas to remove any remaining paper fragments.
Q: Is it safe to manually remove the jammed paper?
A: Yes, it’s generally safe to manually remove jammed paper. However, exercise caution and avoid forcing the paper. If you’re unsure how to remove the paper safely, contact Brother customer support.
Q: Can I use a vacuum cleaner to remove paper fragments from the printer?
A: It’s not recommended to use a vacuum cleaner to remove paper fragments from the printer. The vacuum’s suction can damage the printer’s internal components. Use a soft brush or a damp cloth instead.
Q: What should I do if I can’t find the reset button on my Brother printer?
A: Consult your Brother printer‘s user manual for information on the reset button location. Alternatively, contact Brother customer support for assistance.
Q: How often should I clean the printer rollers?
A: It’s a good practice to clean the printer rollers every few months or whenever you notice a decrease in print quality or frequent paper jams.
