7 Common Office Printer Problems and How to Fix Them
Printing issues always seem to strike at the worst possible time. At Mid Ohio Strategic Technologies (MOST), we believe your office technology should work for you, not against you. As a local, family-owned business with over 45 years of experience, we understand the frustrations that come with office equipment issues.
Problems and solutions vary for different brands and models. This is an overview of some of the most common issues we see across different types of office printers:
1. Paper Jams
The problem: One of the most frustrating printer issues—paper gets stuck inside the machine and halts productivity entirely.
Solution:
- – Gently remove the jammed paper by following your printer’s manual instructions
- – Check the printer settings to make sure it’s set to the correct paper size
- – Keep the paper stack aligned and avoid overfilling the paper tray
- – Regularly clean rollers to prevent buildup that can cause jams
How MOST can help:
Our highly experienced technicians (some with over 45 years in the industry) are experts at resolving persistent paper jam issues. Unlike competitors who might send different technicians each time, you’ll work with the same MOST technician who knows your equipment’s history.
2. Print Quality Issues
The problem: Your documents print with faded text, streaks, or smudges—definitely not ideal for professional use.
Solution:
- – Check ink or toner cartridge levels and replace if needed
- – Run your printer’s cleaning cycle (available via printer settings)
- – Use high-quality sheets of paper suited for your printer model
- – Make sure your print heads are clean and aligned
How MOST can help:
We supply high-quality products, including toner and ink cartridges. Our sales representatives are also involved in installation and training, ensuring you get the most out of your equipment’s quality features.
3. Printer Won’t Connect to Network
The problem: Your wireless printer won’t connect to your network or keeps dropping the connection.
Solution:
- – Restart your printer and router
- – Make sure your printer is within range of your Wi-Fi signal and is connected to the same network as your computer
- – Re-enter the network password carefully
- – Check for printer driver updates
How MOST can help: We maintain excellent relationships with local IT companies throughout Columbus. While we don’t provide IT services directly, we can connect you with trusted partners who specialize in connectivity issues, creating a seamless support experience.
4. Slow Wi-Fi Printing
The problem: Pages take forever to come out, especially for large files or images.
Solution:
- – Reduce quality settings for everyday print jobs
- – Use draft mode when possible
- – Make sure your printer is connected to a faster port (USB 3.0 or Ethernet)
- – Clear the print queue and reboot the printer if things freeze up
How MOST can help:
We’ll help you select equipment that matches your volume needs, preventing the bottlenecks that cause slow printing. Our team can analyze your current usage patterns and recommend the right-sized solution for your business.
5. Unresponsive Service from Your Current Provider
The problem: You can’t reach your current provider for troubleshooting. You’re passed between multiple representatives or overseas call centers without resolution.
Solution: Partner with a local provider that answers their phones with live people and takes ownership of your issues.
How MOST can help:
We answer our phones with real people—often the owners themselves. When you call MOST, you won’t encounter automated phone systems or be transferred overseas. Our staff takes ownership of your issues from start to finish, ensuring they’re resolved promptly.
As one client told us, “We’re tired of calling and being passed around to six people just trying to get a toner or get a billing question answered.”
6. Recurring Printer Issues
The problem: Your printer or copier repeatedly breaks down despite multiple service calls.
Solution: Upgrade to more reliable equipment with consistent, competent service.
How MOST can help:
With our tenured service team (including technicians with several years of experience), we fix problems right the first time. Many clients come to us frustrated after their previous provider failed to resolve issues after multiple attempts. Our team’s expertise ensures your equipment stays operational, preventing the productivity losses that come with downtime.
7. Trapped in Unfavorable Lease Terms
The problem: You’re stuck in a long-term lease with unfavorable terms, paying too much for underperforming equipment.
Solution: Work with a provider that can help you exit your current lease and transition to better equipment.
How MOST can help:
We help businesses escape problematic leases. Unlike many competitors, we don’t include “evergreen clauses” that automatically renew your contract if you miss a narrow cancellation window. When you work with MOST, we can often:
- – Pay off your remaining lease payments
- – Provide a letter of intent to return equipment
- – Handle shipping and return logistics
- – Set you up with right-sized equipment at fair prices
As a family-owned business serving Columbus for nearly three decades, we focus on building long-term relationships, not trapping clients in unfavorable contracts.
Do You Have Other Printer Problems Not Listed Here?
Office printing equipment is vital to keeping business operations on track—but even the best machines can run into trouble.
By understanding these common printer problems and partnering with a responsive, experienced local provider, you can minimize downtime and keep your workflow smooth.
Need reliable printer servicing or a more dependable office solution?
We’ll help you find and maintain the right print solutions for your business—without the headaches you may have experienced with other providers.