Printer feeds multiple sheets of paper at once

Symptoms

• Two or more sheets pull through together on a single print job
• Problem is worse with a full paper tray
• Sheets seem stuck together when picked up from the tray
• Problem is more common with certain paper types (glossy, thin)

Likely causes

• CommonPaper sheets sticking together from static or humidityNew reams, especially in dry or very humid conditions, can have sheets clinging together.
• CommonWorn separator pad or pickup rollersThese parts are designed to grab only the top sheet, and they lose effectiveness as they wear.
• CommonTray overfilled beyond the recommended capacityOverloading increases the chance of multiple sheets feeding together.
• PossibleUsing specialty paper (glossy, coated) not well suited to the feed mechanismCoated or glossy paper can be more prone to sticking than standard paper.

What to do

1. Remove the paper stack, fan it by flexing the edges and riffling through it to separate any stuck sheets, then square it up.
2. Reload a smaller stack, well below the tray's maximum fill line.
3. Check the tray's paper weight and type settings match what's actually loaded.
4. Locate the separator pad (usually a small rubber pad near the pickup rollers) and clean it with a lightly water-dampened lint-free cloth to restore grip.
5. If using glossy or specialty paper, load only a few sheets at a time rather than a full stack.
6. Store paper in a cool, moderate-humidity location, since very dry or very humid conditions worsen sheet-sticking.
7. Check the manufacturer's site for a separator pad or roller replacement kit if the issue persists across multiple paper types.

Tools and parts

• Lint-free cloth

When to call a pro

If fanning the paper and cleaning the separator pad doesn't stop multi-sheet feeding, the pad or rollers are likely worn out and a replacement kit or technician visit is the next step.

Safety