The best way to extend the life of machinery is to properly maintain it. Once you have invested money into business equipment, maintaining it is a no-brainer. You would not buy a car and never change the oil. In order to keep your paper folding equipment in tip-top shape, you will need to give it a little TLC as well. This article includes some great guidelines for taking care of your machine.

Think about all of the work your paper folding machine does for you and your staff. Having this machine is like having a full-time employee devoted to folding all of your newsletters, invoices, and correspondence. Unlike a real employee, this one rarely talks back, hardly ever calls in sick, and works indefinitely in exchange for a single paycheck. Not too shabby when you look at it that way! Your equipment is an important investment in your business, and taking care of it will ensure it can continue to take care of you.

First of all, cover your machine when you are not using it. The rollers can become dirty as paper particles, lint, dirt, and dust settle onto them. Dirty rollers lead to paper jams, and paper jams lead to frustration and lost productivity. Always turn off your machine and unplug it before attempting to clean it. In addition to ensuring there is no electricity being fed into the machine, you should also check yourself and the area for any loose thing that could become entangled in the equipment's moving parts. Pay special attention to your clothes, hands, and jewelry.

If you notice dirt deposits on the machine, you will want to clean it as soon as possible to prevent misfeeds and jams. Cleaning your paper folder is easy. Make a simple solution of soap and water and wipe it on the rollers, paper feed tires, and paper separator to gently wash away the dirt. If your machine allows you to do so, you may want to take the paper rollers off the equipment in order to clean it properly. If your machine's rollers can't be easily removed (without tools), then play it safe and do not do it.

Much like the brakes or tires on your car, some of the pieces of your equipment need to be replaced from time to time. Some of these parts you need to keep an eye on are paper feed (rubber rollers), rubber brake, and paper feed separators. Rollers in need of replacement may appear cracked or worn or when they become so smooth they no longer pull the paper into the machine correctly (even when you have cleaned them).

Treat your machines to the ongoing attention they need, and they will last longer and perform better. Unfortunately, even the most careful attention to maintenance will not prevent every problem. If you have cleaned your equipment and replaced the parts listed above, and your paper folder still is not working properly, it is time to call in some professional help.