HOW TO GET OUT OF A JAM
Nothing can disrupt your flow like a jammed shredder! Paper jams, while annoying, are
easily fixable. Several Fellowes shredders include advanced jam prevention features,
such as 100% Jam Proof™ technology, Jam Blocker™, Jam Buster™ and Auto Reverse to help
avoid jamming; however, sometimes the inevitable happens. Follow the steps below to
learn how to quickly fix a basic paper jam:
RUN IN REVERSE FOR 2-3 SECONDS
The shredder should have a clearly marked "reverse" button or control switch
depending on the machine. This is typically located on the top of the shredder.
-
Set the switch to reverse mode or press and hold the reverse button for 2-3
seconds allowing the machine to work the jammed paper out
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As the shredder is reversing, gently pull the uncut portion of the paper from
the machine
- Resume shredding once the jam is cleared
If running the shredder in Reverse doesn't release the jammed documents:
ALTERNATE BETWEEN FORWARD AND REVERSE MODE
Even the worst paper jams can usually be cleared using this method.
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Slowly toggle between the Reverse Mode (2-3 sec) and the Auto Forward Mode (2-3
sec) to help clear the jam from the cutting blades
-
Once the jammed paper is cleared, gently pull the uncut portion of the paper
from the machine
- Resume shredding once the jam is cleared
If the paper jam STILL cannot be cleared using the toggling method, it may need to be
cleared manually.
HELPFUL TIPS TO PREVENT PAPER JAMS:
Avoid Overfeeding Shredder
Every shredder has maximum sheet capacity, which communicates the number of sheets it
can safely shred at once. To reduce the likelihood of a jam, be conscious to not
exceed the machine's sheet capacity when shredding and remember that a folded sheet of
paper is the equivalent of two sheets! Fellowes ensures that the maximum sheet
capacity is printed clearly on each shredder, near the paper entry.
Only Shred Machine-Approved Materials
Not every shredder is built to shred thicker materials like paper clips, credit cards
and CDs. Trying to shred materials that are not rated for the machine can result in
jams or serious damage to the shredder.
Empty the Waste Bin Regularly
A full waste bin prevents paper from falling from cutting block as it is shred, which
can lead to jams. Be sure to periodically check the waste bin and empty when full.
All cross-cut and micro-cut shredders require oil for optimal performance. Regularly
lubricating the cutters helps to enhance efficiency and extend shredder life. Fellowes
recommends oiling the shredder each time the waste bin is emptied.
For Advanced Jam Prevention -
Look for a Fellowes Shredder with One of These
Features:
All cross-cut and micro-cut shredders require oil for optimal performance. Regularly
lubricating the cutters helps to enhance efficiency and extend shredder life. Fellowes
recommends oiling the shredder each time the waste bin is emptied.
Eliminates paper jams and automatically powers through tough jobs for
frustration-free shredding
Blocks jams and prevents overfeeding by measuring paper thickness
Powers through paper jams with the touch of a button for hassle-free shredding
Stops and automatically reverses paper out if a jam occurs