Regular habits
- Print something regularly. Inkjets that sit unused for weeks are prone to dried nozzles. A short colour page every week or so helps.
- Keep it dust-free. Wipe the outside and close trays and covers when not in use.
- Use good paper stored flat and dry.
- Switch off with the power button, not at the wall, so inkjets can cap their print heads.
Every month or so
- Check the paper path and trays for scraps, clips and dust.
- On inkjets, print a nozzle check and compare it with the last one.
- On lasers, look at prints for faint streaks or background grey, early signs of drum or toner wear.
- Check for firmware updates from the manufacturer’s own support page.
When the printer warns you
Supply, drum and maintenance kit warnings are useful early notice. Plan replacement rather than waiting for a hard stop, and follow the manual for any counter reset.
What to leave to a technician
- Opening covers that need tools.
- Cleaning inside laser printers around the fuser or laser unit.
- Anything involving the power supply.
- Repeated service or fatal error messages.
Loose toner in particular should not be vacuumed with a household vacuum cleaner.
General guidance only. Follow your printer’s manual and safety warnings, and unplug the printer before reaching inside.
