Black streaks when using the document feeder

Black streaks when using the document feeder

A dirty scanning area can cause black streaks on copies or faxes made through the document feeder. The scanning area is the long, narrow strip of glass the feeder scans across. Cleaning it may help, but streaks can have other causes, so it may not fix every case.

Cleaning the scanning glass

1. Wipe the scanning area with a clean, soft, dry cloth. Don't use a hard or dirty cloth, or a tissue.
2. If marks remain, use a soft cloth moistened with water and wrung out well.
3. Take care not to scratch the glass.

What not to use on the glass

Don't use alcohol, detergent, solvents or any liquid other than water on the scanning glass. If your feeder is a Dual Scan Document Feeder, it has its own scanning glass strip, and the same water-only rule applies.

Streaks across the page

Black streaks running across the copy can also come from a stained guide next to the scanning area. The guide has its own cleaning instructions in your model's regular-maintenance guidance, which differ from those for the glass. Don't use the guide's cleaning materials on the glass.

Fine dust

Fine dust can cause noticeable scanning marks when originals go through the feeder. The manual also refers to ADF Noise Reduction. Ask whoever manages your copier whether this option is available on your model.

How often to clean

The manufacturer recommends cleaning the scanning areas weekly so originals are always scanned cleanly.

Never try to repair, take apart or modify the copier yourself. The manufacturer warns that doing so could cause a fire or an electric shock.

If streaks continue after cleaning, contact your service provider with your model name and, if possible, a sample copy showing the streaks.