Jamming printers are a common IT Support question - but what can you do about it?

Here are some top tips to stop your printer from jamming

• Align the paper guides correctly

Printers usually have a couple of adjustable plastic guide arms either side of the paper as it enters the printer. Push these together so they firmly guide the paper.

• Make sure you feed paper in via the paper tray if you have on. 

Consider buying one if you can?

• Don't put too much or too little paper in at once.

It is easy to see when you have overfilled the printer but also avoid having less than 2 or 3 sheets if you are getting jams.

• Is your paper suitable for you printer?

Avoid paper that is too thin, heavy or waxy. Paper has a weight rating called GSM. About 80-200gsm is usually acceptable.

• Try not to re-use paper if it is curled or bent

Re-using paper is great environmentally but can cause problems.

Is your printer suitable for your business?

Print jams cost you time and money (toner, paper and time) so getting the right printer is important.

We've listed some of the common features that help you pick the right printer.

• GET A PAPER TRAY. If the printer doesn't have one move on. They are essential to stop jams.
• Price. Expect to pay over £80 for an OK printer, over £150 for a really reliable one.
• Monthly print run. Printers are usually rated by expecting monthly print run.
• Network (Ethernet) port. A network port means you can print directly to the printer without having to plug it into someone else's computer.

What next? Want some help choosing the right printer?

Why not look at our Printers buying guide.

Is printer problems just one of many issues? Why not look at IT Support? It is cheaper and effective way to banish IT problem.