If you do a lot of photocopying, you’ve probably noticed that your copier generates streaky images from time to time. Streaking is a typical problem, manifesting as light streaks where toner is missing and dark streaks where toner appears to have overflowed. The issue implies that the toner is not adhering to the correct areas of the paper. This issue could be caused by a number of factors.
Needs Cleaning
The components inside copiers accumulate dust, dirt, and grime over time. Failure to clean inside a machine properly can have an impact on its performance. Streaking is frequently an indication that the corona wire is unclean, particularly in older equipment. Corona wire is a component in the bottom of some copiers that charges the paper so that the toner adheres to it. For advice on how to clean a specific machine’s parts, consult your manufacturer’s instructions or call a professional copier repair service. Cleaning the inside of your copier once a month can help prevent streaks. Also, use window cleaner to clean the glass copy board to avoid blemishes on the paper that can streak and smudge copies.
Toner Problems
Streaks can be caused by a couple of toner cartridge issues. One example is a toner-depleted cartridge. Most copiers will notify you when the toner is low and needs to be refilled. Another issue is that the cartridge must be cleaned. A charge wire is used in many cartridges to charge the copier’s drum. If this area is dusty, the drum will not properly charge the paper, resulting in streaking. Excess toner spilling from a cartridge’s reservoir can also cause streaking. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning the cartridges in your model.
Paper Problems
Copiers occasionally make streaky copies because the paper is defective. If you use anything other than copy paper, it may not be able to charge properly so that the toner adheres to it. Another possible issue is that low humidity may cause static electricity in the paper, preventing it from charging properly. To avoid this problem, keep your paper in a somewhat humid environment, especially on chilly winter days. If you suspect static electricity in the paper currently loaded in the machine, take it out and fan the pages with your thumb and forefinger on the other hand.
Hardware Problems
Other causes of streaking have to do with the hardware of your copier. A faulty drum unit, in example, may be unable to transmit clean images to paper copies and may generate streaks. If it isn’t charging properly, it should be replaced. Hardware issues are typically handled by a skilled copier repair specialist.
