How to Get Out Of A Paper Jam

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How to Get Out Of A Paper Jam

HOW TO GET OUT OF A JAM

Nothing can disrupt your flow like a jammed shredder! Paper jams, while annoying, are easily fixable. Several Fellowes shredders include advanced jam prevention features, such as 100% Jam Proof™ technology, Jam Blocker™, Jam Buster™ and Auto Reverse to help avoid jamming; however, sometimes the inevitable happens. Follow the steps below to learn how to quickly fix a basic paper jam:

RUN IN REVERSE FOR 2-3 SECONDS

The shredder should have a clearly marked "reverse" button or control switch depending on the machine. This is typically located on the top of the shredder.

Set the switch to reverse mode or press and hold the reverse button for 2-3 seconds allowing the machine to work the jammed paper out
As the shredder is reversing, gently pull the uncut portion of the paper from the machine
Resume shredding once the jam is cleared

If running the shredder in Reverse doesn't release the jammed documents:

ALTERNATE BETWEEN FORWARD
AND REVERSE MODE

Even the worst paper jams can usually be cleared using this method.

Slowly toggle between the Reverse Mode (2-3 sec) and the Auto Forward Mode (2-3 sec) to help clear the jam from the cutting blades
Once the jammed paper is cleared, gently pull the uncut portion of the paper from the machine
Resume shredding once the jam is cleared

If the paper jam STILL cannot be cleared using the toggling method, it may need to be cleared manually.

HELPFUL TIPS TO PREVENT PAPER JAMS:

Avoid Overfeeding Shredder

Every shredder has maximum sheet capacity, which communicates the number of sheets it can safely shred at once. To reduce the likelihood of a jam, be conscious to not exceed the machine's sheet capacity when shredding and remember that a folded sheet of paper is the equivalent of two sheets! Fellowes ensures that the maximum sheet capacity is printed clearly on each shredder, near the paper entry.

Only Shred Machine-Approved Materials

Not every shredder is built to shred thicker materials like paper clips, credit cards and CDs. Trying to shred materials that are not rated for the machine can result in jams or serious damage to the shredder.

Empty the Waste Bin Regularly

A full waste bin prevents paper from falling from cutting block as it is shred, which can lead to jams. Be sure to periodically check the waste bin and empty when full.

Routine Oiling

All cross-cut and micro-cut shredders require oil for optimal performance. Regularly lubricating the cutters helps to enhance efficiency and extend shredder life. Fellowes recommends oiling the shredder each time the waste bin is emptied.

For Advanced Jam Prevention -
Look for a Fellowes Shredder with One of These Features:


Eliminates paper jams and automatically powers through tough jobs for frustration-free shredding		Blocks jams and prevents overfeeding by measuring paper thickness


Powers through paper jams with the touch of a button for hassle-free shredding		Stops and automatically reverses paper out if a jam occurs