What To Know
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away any dust or debris from the exterior of the printer.
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water to gently wipe the electrical contacts on the ink cartridges and inside the printer.
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water to clean the inside of the waste ink tank.
Maintaining a clean printer is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. If you own a Brother Printer MFC-J491DW, this comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to effectively clean it, ensuring its smooth operation and pristine condition.
Materials Required
- Soft, lint-free cloth
- Distilled water or isopropyl alcohol (70%)
- Cotton swabs
- Soft brush (for external cleaning)
Cleaning the Exterior
1. Power off the printer and unplug it: Safety first! Always disconnect the printer before cleaning.
2. Wipe down the surface: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away any dust or debris from the exterior of the printer.
3. Clean the control panel: Use a cotton swab dipped in distilled water to clean the buttons and display screen. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
4. Brush off the paper tray: Use a soft brush to remove any dust or paper particles from the paper tray.
Cleaning the Ink Cartridges
1. Open the ink cartridge cover: Locate and lift the ink cartridge cover on the front of the printer.
2. Remove the ink cartridges: Gently grasp the ink cartridges and pull them straight up to remove them.
3. Wipe the contacts: Use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water to gently wipe the electrical contacts on the ink cartridges and inside the printer.
4. Reinstall the ink cartridges: Insert the ink cartridges back into their respective slots, ensuring they snap into place.
5. Close the ink cartridge cover: Lower the ink cartridge cover to secure the cartridges.
Cleaning the Print Head
1. Access the print head: Open the front cover of the printer. The print head will move to the center for easy access.
2. Soak the print head: Fill a small container with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol. Submerge the print head for 15-20 minutes.
3. Wipe the print head: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away any ink or debris from the print head.
4. Dry the print head: Use a clean, lint-free cloth to pat the print head dry.
5. Reinstall the print head: Place the print head back into its slot and close the front cover.
Cleaning the Paper Feed Roller
1. Open the paper feed cover: Locate and open the paper feed cover on the back of the printer.
2. Remove the paper feed roller: Gently pull the paper feed roller towards you to remove it.
3. Clean the roller: Use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water to wipe away any dirt or debris from the roller.
4. Dry the roller: Use a clean, lint-free cloth to pat the roller dry.
5. Reinstall the paper feed roller: Insert the paper feed roller back into its slot and close the paper feed cover.
Cleaning the Waste Ink Tank
1. Locate the waste ink tank: The waste ink tank is usually located on the back or side of the printer.
2. Remove the waste ink tank: Open the waste ink tank cover and gently pull the tank towards you to remove it.
3. Empty the tank: Pour the waste ink into a designated waste container.
4. Clean the tank: Use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water to clean the inside of the waste ink tank.
5. Reinstall the waste ink tank: Insert the waste ink tank back into its slot and close the cover.
Cleaning the Other Components
- ADF (Automatic Document Feeder): Use a soft brush to remove any dust or debris from the ADF.
- Scanner Glass: Use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with glass cleaner to clean the scanner glass.
- Fuser Unit: This component is not user-serviceable. Contact an authorized service technician for cleaning.
Troubleshooting Common Cleaning Issues
- Printer won’t print after cleaning: Check if all components have been properly reinstalled and that the printer is powered on.
- Print quality is poor after cleaning: Clean the print head again and ensure that the ink cartridges are not clogged.
- Printer is making strange noises after cleaning: Check if any components are loose or damaged. Contact an authorized service technician if the problem persists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I clean my Brother Printer MFC-J491DW?
A: Regular cleaning is recommended every 3-6 months or as needed based on usage.
Q: Can I use tap water to clean my printer?
A: No, it’s best to use distilled water or isopropyl alcohol to avoid mineral buildup.
Q: Is it safe to use a vacuum cleaner to clean my printer?
A: No, vacuum cleaners can damage delicate components. Use a soft brush or lint-free cloth instead.
