Printers have a talent for acting up at the worst possible time. One minute everything’s fine, the next you’re staring at an error message, faded prints, or a job that refuses to come out. Before you panic or pick up the phone, a few quick checks can often solve common issues.
This guide walks you through basic troubleshooting printer steps that our technicians recommend — simple things that save time, money, and frustration.
Start With the Basics
It sounds obvious, but many printer problems come down to power or connection issues. Check that the printer is turned on, properly plugged in, and not sitting in sleep mode. If it’s a network printer, confirm it’s still connected to the correct Wi-Fi or Ethernet network. Routers reset more often than people realise, and that alone can cause printers to go offline.
Look at the Printer Screen, Not Just Your Computer
Modern printers usually tell you what’s wrong — but only on their own display. Walk over and check the screen for alerts like paper jams, toner warnings, or tray errors. A printer may appear “offline” on your computer when it’s actually waiting for paper or a door to be closed.
Paper Problems Cause More Issues Than You Think
Paper jams aren’t always visible. Even a small torn corner left inside can trigger constant errors. Remove the paper tray, check the rear access area, and gently clear any debris. Also make sure the paper is the correct size and not curled, damp, or overfilled in the tray.
Check Toner and Consumables
Low or incorrectly installed toner is a common cause of print issues. If prints look faded, streaky, or uneven, remove the toner cartridge, gently shake it side-to-side, and reseat it properly. Make sure all seals and packaging have been removed, especially on new cartridges.
Restart the Right Way
A proper restart can clear many temporary faults. Turn the printer off, unplug it from the power for at least 30 seconds, then turn it back on. This allows sensors and internal components to reset — something a quick power button press won’t always do.
When Troubleshooting Printer Issues Isn’t Enough
If the same error keeps returning, print quality continues to drop, or the printer stops mid-job, it’s likely a worn part or internal fault. That’s when calling a professional technician makes sense. Repeated resets or forcing parts can turn a small issue into a costly repair.
Need Help From a Printer Technician?
If troubleshooting doesn’t fix the problem, Laserfast provides professional printer repair services across Australia. From business-grade printers to office multifunction devices, our technicians diagnose and fix issues quickly — so you’re not stuck guessing.