Damp paper is one of the most common problems that a digital photocopier (or any device that moves paper) encounters, and can cause ongoing problems with image quality and paper jams.

If you are experiencing on going paper jams or image quality problems then checking your paper is one of the first things I would recommend. Paper is produced in a controlled environment and is packaged in a damp resistant ream. When opening the ream it will instantly absorb any moisture in the air (humidity) like a sponge. This happens to all different types of paper available e.g. letterhead paper, envelopes, copy paper, labels and slips etc

How do I know if I've got damp paper?

1. The copy or print is curled and will not lie naturally flat.

2. The paper becomes creased as it exits the photocopier.

3. Very poor copy quality image.

4. Persistent paper jams.

5. Paper feels limp and soft to touch.

You may think that your paper is not damp, but you will be surprised how little the moisture content has to alter for it to become a problem. To check if your paper is at fault follow these simple steps.

1. Open a new packet of reasonable/good quality copy paper.

2. Remove the old paper from the paper cassette drawer and replace it with the new paper.

3. Make about 10-15 photocopies using a blank piece of paper as your original.

4. If the document passes through without jamming then make some more copies using a printed document.

5. Now you should find the problem has been resolved.

Paper Storage Helpful Tips

1. Always make sure your paper is stored in a warm dry place. If it is currently stored in a back room or near an external entrance then your paper is very likely to be damp. Always store your photocopier paper in a dry and warm environment.

2. If your photocopier usage is very low try reducing the amount of paper you put in the cassette and store the rest in a suitable place.

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