How to Lengthen Your Printer's Lifespan

Many printers need to be replaced every twodamaged, so treat the machine with care.
years or so, but your printer could potentially lastDon't throw away the manual. The user's manual
much longer. Here are a few tips for making surecan show you a kinder, gentler way to open the
your printer lasts as long as you need it to.printer and fix whatever's wrong.
Don't yank the paper out. Paper jams can beIf you've found a printer you like, don't hasten it
frustrating. But you should definitely avoid takingto its end. Instead, treat it carefully and keep the
your frustration out on your printer by yankinguser's manual around to refer to when you see
and pulling too hard.an error message. Make sure the printer is clean,
Turn off your printer when it's not in use. If youespecially on the inside, and free of dust. This will
leave your printer on all the time, you could causecut down on friction, heat and static electricity, all
the printer ink to dry out-which can cause internalof which can damage your printer's fragile
problems in the printer over time.components. Most of all, treat your printer
Clean the machine. Every so often-at least once agently-don't tug on paper or try to wrench open
month or so-wipe down the inside and the outsidea panel-as this can damage the internal
of your printer with a lint-free cloth.components. Follow this advice, and your printer
Be careful with your printer. Printers have manyshould have a long and happy life.
small, delicate moving parts that can easily be