How to Recalibrate Paper Shredders
You need to recalibrate a paper shredder to protect your sensitive information, and to help extend the life of the shredder. After several uses, a paper shredder will start getting jams and paper will not shred correctly. You need to clean the sensors on the paper shredder, so they can detect the paper more efficiently.
- Unplug the paper shredder from the electrical outlet, and place the shredder on a flat even surface. Remove the paper guide that is located at the entryway of the paper feeder. You should be able to pull it up and then out to remove it.
- Use a Philips head screwdriver to remove the two screws located in the paper feeder area. Pull back the guides to reveal the sensors. Use a soft cloth and clean the dust and dirt off of the sensors. Also wipe around the area of the sensors if it seems dirty.
- Push the guides back in, and then use the Philips head screwdriver to screw the screws back in. Place the paper guide back into the entryway of the paper feeder. Make sure it is secure. Plug the paper shredder back into an electrical outlet, and shred a piece of paper so you can verify that the sensor is working.
- Lessen paper jams on your paper shredder by oiling the cutters. Purchase oil that is in a spray can that has an extended nozzle, to make it easier for you to reach the cutters. If you do not have any shredder oil, you can use any type of vegetable based oil.
- Put the paper shredder in reverse mode, holding down the button while you spray the oil in the opening. Put the paper shredder in forward and allow it to run for approximately 4 seconds. Put the shredder back into reverse mode for 4 seconds. Repeat this process four more times to ensure the oil is worked into the cutters.