A slow office photocopier can be a pain for any workplace, and can even put a damper on your productivity. Standing around and waiting for your documents to copy can really test your patience and waste time that could be better spent working.
So what causes your office photocopier to slow down? There could be a variety of answers to this question. Here are some of the most common issues and how you can take care of them.
There May be a Paper Jam
It’s pretty easy to notice when you have a paper jam, but sometimes there could be an internal blockade preventing your documents from making it to the finish line. Check to see if any pieces of paper have been stuck inside. View our article on fixing a paper jam in your photocopier if you need some tips on how to do this yourself.
Overuse Can Lead to Overheating
There are a lot of parts inside your office photocopier, and, just like any machine, they can become overheated from overuse. Sometimes this could result in your machine being bogged down and slow. You’ll need to give your machine time to cool down. This is why standby mode was invented! Another thing you can do is check with your team to see if anyone is printing things that don’t necessarily need to be printed. Not only does this give your machine a break, but it can save time, energy, and paper.
The Driver May Need Attention
Today’s photocopy machines are run by electronic print drivers. These drivers power your printer, and they do need to be updated every once in a while. If they become out of date, just like your computer, they can begin to run slower. You can easily check this either on the machine itself or through the WiFi. The manufacturer’s website will also indicate if there is a new update available to download.
The Network Could be Busy
Consider the size of your company and how many people are using the copier at any given time. The more people on the network, the more it could cause the machine to slow down. Are any other computers sending things to the printer that could be bugging up the system and causing a virtual traffic jam?
It May be Time For an Upgrade
Sometimes your machine may just need an upgrade. Consider how old it is and the technology involved, and whether or not you feel that you’re ready to get a new one. Many newer machines include innovative technology and upgrades that can actually save you money in the long run. For example, some have user-friendly touch screens and many have energy-saving features. When you purchase a new copy machine you are making an investment in your company’s future.
Don’t be Afraid to Call Your Office Automation Experts
When in doubt, call an expert. At Brock Office Automation, our in-house service experts provide the service and assistance you need to make sure your office equipment is running smoothly. You can always give us a call if you’re not sure how to fix your office photocopier, printer, or other equipment, and we’ll always have an answer for you.
