You love how much your automatic paper folder helps you around the office. But is your relationship with it a two-way street? If you're not careful to give it some regular TLC, you two will soon be breaking up -- because it'll soon be breaking down.
And right when you needed it the most.
Automatic paper folders play an incredibly important role in folding your invoices, bills, and mailers. If you don't take the proper steps to protect this financial investment, you or someone else will end up being stuck doing all of the folding by hand.
And time is money.
So, where do you start? We've compiled a guide of 10 maintenance tips for keeping your paper folder in tip-top shape.
Let's dig in!
1. Automatic Paper Folder: Replace the Parts
Sure, your automatic paper folder is a downright beast. But even a beast can get worn out over time.
To keep your machine up and running, you'll need to replace several parts of the machine regularly. These include:
- Paper feed separator
- Rubber brake
- Rubber rollers
You'll easily be able to tell when your rollers need replacing: They'll look worn and cracked. Or, they will stop grabbing paper efficiently like it used to.
2. Clean Feed Tires
Cleaning is one of the most important things you can do to keep your paper folder operating at its optimum level.
You should clean your machine's paper feed tires periodically to avoid marking issues.
But not so fast.
Before you begin any cleaning activities, first make sure that the power is off, and remove it from the wall outlet. Otherwise, you're putting your own health and well-being at risk.
In addition, keep your jewelry, clothing, and fingers from all moving parts.
Again, safety first.
3. Clean Rubber Roller and Separator
While you're in cleaning mode, why not scratch a couple of other important cleaning activities off your to-do list?
These involve cleaning your rubber rollers and separator.
If ink, dust, and particles from paper accumulate on the rollers and separator, the paper feeding performance will deteriorate. This means the paper you place in the machine may end up slipping and thus jamming.
So, what exactly do you use for the cleaning job?
Some rubber cleaner rejuvenator will do the trick. It's just as effective as good old-fashioned soap and water.
But it does more than just clean: It hydrates. This prevents cracking and will ultimately help to extend the life of your machine.
4. Clean Fold Rollers
Your cleaning job isn't done just yet.
Your machine's fold rollers also need some attention.
If you go too long without cleaning them, they'll collect dust and other particles, just like your rubber roller and separator. And your paper won't fold properly.
To clean the rollers, you might have to take the rollers out of the machine if your machine allows you to do this.
If you have a machine that won't let you remove them without needing tools, then it's best to keep them in there during your cleaning job.
5. "I'll Cover You"
One of the best ways you can take care of your automatic paper folder is to protect it by keeping it covered.
Your machine cover will prevent paper particles and debris from building up on your fold rollers.
It's a simple step that'll keep you from getting into a jam (literally).
6. Speaking of Jams...
Life isn't perfect, so sometimes you'll find yourself in the middle of a paper jam.
What do you do?
No need to cry or swear. Just try to pull the paper out.
Whatever you do, avoid using a screwdriver or scissors to fish it out. This may damage your rubber rollers.
And then you'll have a real reason to cry, as they aren't a particularly cheap replacement part. And they aren't always easy to replace, either.
Also, you know how you don't like being forced to do something against your will? Neither does your automatic paper folder.
So, don't try to force your machine to do what it doesn't feel like doing. If you don't see the roller wheels turning and you try to force them, they just may end up breaking on you.
And who has time for a breakup?
7. Paper Thickness and Finish
Watch what you put through your machine as well. Not all paper is equal.
Avoid using paper that is too thick according to your machine's max specifications. Likewise, don't run papers that are too thin through your machine.
In the same way, be careful about the finish of the paper you run through the paper folder. Glossy paper might cause slips leading to jams in some machines.
8. Staples
When it comes to taking care of your paper folder, stay clear of staples, too.
If you put stapled paper through the machine, the staples might damage your sensitive rubber rollers and negatively impact the machine's performance.
Translation: Your relationship with your automatic paper folder may come to an abrupt end.
9. Preventative Measures
Here are some other things you can do keep your machine running smoothly.
First, the folding plates need to be secure. If they are not seated properly, you can expect lots of annoying paper jams.
Also, once you're finished using the paper folder, go ahead and turn it off. This keeps your motor from unnecessary wear and tear.
And don't forget to plug your top-notch paper folder into a surge protector. This is something you should do for any high-end electronic device to avoid losing it to an unexpected power surge.
10. It's Electric
The same static that can give you an annoying electric shock can also cause you major headaches with your paper folder.
Static electricity may cause several paper sheets to stick together, thus leading to misfeeds and ultimately paper jams.
Some machines are designed to keep static electricity at bay. But if you need some extra help, a static eliminator spay may be a helpful tool to have in your arsenal.
How We Can Help
We offer a wide range of automatic paper folders, ranging from light-duty to medium- and heavy-duty machines, designed to meet your company's unique needs.
Contact us to find out more about what folders may work best for you and how you can maximize your use of it both now and in the years ahead.