Printer models vary widely in size and complexity.  Some are as small as an A4 sheet, others large, floor standing, on-line mainframe printers.  Nevertheless, there are many common areas and in all cases the objective is to remove the dust and dirt that accumulates and which can cause malfunctions, poor print quality and paper jamming problems.

Laser

Poor quality copies can be caused by neglected rollers and excess of toner.  Initially, the unit is opened up and any loose toner dust removed.  Where accessible, the corona wire is cleaned to improve print quality.  If necessary, the ozone filter is vacuumed or replaced from customer stocks.

All exterior surfaces are then cleaned as described for dot matrix printers.  The function display and controls are cleaned as are the paper tray(s).

Ink Jet

Small amounts of ink residues may build up on the inside of the casing.  These are removed with a moist cloth.

Externally dust, dirt, ink smudges and stains are removed as for dot matrix printers.

The sheet feeders are cleaned, as are ventilation grills and ports.

Dot Matrix

The plastic cover is removed giving access to the printhead, ink ribbon, sheet feeders and motors.  These elements can be vacuumed to remove dust and paper fragments.  In some cases the ink ribbon cartridge is removed to improve access.

All external surfaces, including grills and crevices, are cleaned with anti-static liquid (no solutions are sprayed directly onto the unit's surface).  The cover is replaced and any ingrained dirt, adhesive residues or ink stains are then removed using a 'spotter' solution.  The end result being a virtually 'brand new' unit.