How to Troubleshoot a Fax Machine

A fax machine is a vital tool in many offices. If it's not working, the fax machine can cause a lot of stress. Each fax machine has its own quirks, so be sure to read the manual that came with yours. Here are general tips to help you troubleshoot your fax machine the next time it acts up.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Test that the fax machine is getting electricity--that is, make sure it is plugged in. Also check that the fax machine's connection to its phone line is secure. Always do these two checks first. Quite frequently one of them is the simple cause of the problem.
2. Print a test page. If the test page looks fine but incoming faxes are blurry, the problem may be with the sending fax.
3. Adjust the sensitivity setting if the test page prints too dark or too light. If your setting is too dark, you are wasting a lot of toner or ink.
4. Open the document feed area to clean it. Use a slightly damp cloth to wipe down all surfaces. If your fax also scans copies, remember to wipe the glass area with glass cleaner on a soft cloth as well. This step can improve images sent from your fax machine.
5. Check the toner cartridge if your fax machine uses one. Remove the cartridge and gently shake it before replacing it in the machine. Wipe up any spilled toner. Replace the toner cartridge if it is empty.
6. Check the ink cartridge if your machine uses one instead of toner. Puddles of ink inside the print area indicate the ink cartridge is leaking. If it is, replace it.
7. Be sure no paper jams are causing your fax machine to malfunction. Check that the paper is feeding properly from the document feeder and that the paper is straight as it emerges from the fax machine.

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