Extend The Life Of Your Printer

By Author: Stacy
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Let's say you just bought a brand new printer for your home or business office. After the initial purchase, you're probably not too concerned with how long the device will last. However, extending the life of your printer may be easier than you think. In the following guide, we'll go over some simple steps you can take to ensure that you get the most from your machine.

Proper Placement

Whether you place the printer right beside your computer or on a shelf above your workspace, it's important that all wiring is tucked away neatly. After purchasing a brand new device, the last you want is to have someone trip over the cables, dragging the printer onto the floor. For your own personal well-being, you might want to consider placing it near an open window. Studies have shown that certain devices emit tiny particles into the air while printing, which usually come from the toner cartridge inside the printer. If these invisible particles don't adhere to the paper, the chances of you inhaling them are quite high.

Also, make sure the surface you choose for your printer is capable of handling the weight and vibration ...
... of the machine. The best way to prevent accidents or mishaps is by purchasing a sturdy, reliable printer stand. Most printer stands are portable, which allows you to move the device to any location in your home or office. If possible, you should try to store the printer in a cool, dry place and avoid humidity at all costs.

Keep it clean

Throughout the life of your printer, it's important that you properly clean the device to keep it running smoothly for a longer period of time. First, you should take a few minutes to wipe off any dust from the outside of the printer and the printer tray. Most instruction manuals advise owners to use a soft, clean cloth when wiping the exterior. Then, open up your printer and remove any excess particles, such as tiny pieces of paper, with a can of compressed air. When you're not using the printer, you should keep the tray closed to reduce the amount of dust that gets inside. Also, if your machine experiences a severe jam, make sure you clean up any mess it leaves behind.

Use quality printer supplies

You don't have to spend large amounts of money on your printer supplies, but make sure you take care of the ones you purchase. Keeping your paper flat and crease-free is an easy way to prevent excessive paper jams. Also, several manufacturers have minimum standards for the paper and toner that's used in their printer. If you experience any maintenance issues or technical difficulties, they may refuse to help unless you're using the proper consumables.

Turning off the Printer

As with all modern appliances, leaving your printer on constantly eats a substantial amount of electricity. In addition to using up unnecessary power, the ink cartridge inside the printer tends to dry out easily when not in use. Not only will you have to purchase more cartridges than normal, but your printing quality will suffer as well. Therefore, it's important that you always turn the device off when you're not using it. The best way to do this is by using the On/Off switch, which will engage a capping mechanism that prevents ink from drying up. If you unplug it from the wall or flip off your power switch, your cartridge will freeze in its current state, and it will still be at risk for drying out.

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