In a perfect world, these fantastic gizmos that put marks on paper would never fail on us. However, it’s all too familiar that when we need our multifunction office equipment to perform the most, problems arise.

We get the urgent calls everyday, and thankfully with the award winning Xerox platforms we support most issues can be fixed either on the phone or within 24 hours. However, here are some quick tips to keep in mind to help you avoid potential issues:

1. Use Fresh Paper

If anyone’s heard the excuse from their copier technician “...it’s the paper” without much explanation, I can only imagine the rage one feels. However, there’s definitely some merit in the fact that paper can play an important role with equipment performance. Moisture, dust and temperature can all have negative effect on how the machine operates. Try to use paper within a week or two after opening in normal operating environments. In humid or dusty conditions, use only what you need on a daily basis.

2. Less Hands = Less Jams

People use technology differently, and when more people have access to the equipment, more problems are inevitable to occur. If your office has the luxury of a smaller group of people dedicated to using the machine, you’re much better off.

3. If There’s a Problem, Let Someone Know About It

It’s surprising how long problems go unreported. In larger workgroups, issues tend become someone else’s problem to deal with when there is an alternative method to getting documents produced. Inheriting a paper jam is never is fun; post your local Xerox service provider’s number near the machine and require someone internally to be the "go to person" when situations arise.

4. Remember It’s Still a Machine

Machines are mechanical and unfortunately they are going to break down. We pride ourselves at Hungate Business Services in selling the best product and services in the imaging industry, however things do happen. Report issues promptly and there’s a good chance you’ll be up and running within a day or less.

5. Don’t Try to Perform Maintenance Yourself

No help needed from the weekend do-it-yourselfer’s. These devices are high-tech, and very sensitive to the slightest error for many of the internal components. Xerox equipment design is intuitive enough for even the most novice of users for common functions and clearing problems. However, if something isn’t working based on what the touch screen instructs you to do, proceed no further and contact your service provider. Most vendors will charge you if you break something while attempting to do a repair (even if you have a service contract), so don’t take the chance.

6. Use Genuine OEM Xerox Parts and Supplies

Only use manufacturer recommended consumables in your office equipment. If you’re purchasing Xerox supplies, make sure you’re buying them from an Authorized Sales Agent or Dealer. If they are included in your contract, request that these components come directly from the manufacturer. Supplies in the Xerox world have gotten so advanced, that toner is even chemically grown - even the slightest micron off can compromise quality and overall reliability of the equipment.