Electric staplers make office work easier. But when they stop working it can be frustrating. There are some simple fixes you can try at home.
The most common issue with electric staplers is a staple jam. This happens when staples get stuck inside the machine. You can often fix this by unplugging the stapler and opening it up. Look for any bent staples and take them out with pliers.
Regular maintenance can prevent many problems with electric staplers. Clean the stapler often. Check for loose parts. Make sure you use the right size staples. These steps can help keep your stapler working well for a long time.
Troubleshooting Steps
1. Check the Power Source
First and foremost, ensure your electric stapler is properly powered. Staplers can be either battery-operated or plugged into an electrical outlet. For battery-powered staplers, check if the batteries are properly installed and have sufficient charge. If it’s an electric model, confirm that the power cord is intact and the stapler is plugged in securely.
2. Clearing Staple Jams
One of the most common issues with electric staplers is a staple jam. To fix this, first, unplug or disconnect the stapler. Open the tool and remove any visible staples. Look for any bent or out-of-place staples blocking the path and remove them using needle-nose pliers. Ensure the staple magazine is clear of any obstructions before reloading it.
3. Troubleshooting Trigger Mechanism Issues
Sometimes the problem might lie with the trigger mechanism. If your stapler isn’t firing staples, it could be due to a faulty trigger. Inspect the trigger to see if it’s stuck or damaged. In some cases, cleaning or lightly lubricating the mechanism can resolve the issue.
4. Inspecting for Internal Damage
Internal issues such as a damaged spring, uneven anvil, or misaligned staples can also cause problems. Carefully open the stapler to inspect these parts. Look for any visible damage or misalignment. Sometimes, gently adjusting or replacing these components can get your stapler working again.
5. Dealing with Power Issues
If the stapler isn’t turning on, it could be due to power supply problems. A broken power cord or issues with the internal wiring can prevent the stapler from receiving power. Check the cord for any visible damage. If you suspect internal wiring issues, it might be best to seek professional repair, especially if the stapler is under warranty.
6. Regular Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance can prevent many common issues. Keep your stapler clean and free of dust. Also, use the correct size and type of staples recommended for your model to avoid jams and other mechanical issues.
7. When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried these steps and your stapler still isn’t working, it might be time to consult a professional. Sometimes, the issue could be more complex, requiring specialized knowledge or parts replacement.
8. Preventive Measures for Future
To minimize future issues, handle your stapler carefully and store it in a clean, dry place. Avoid overloading the stapler with staples and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for use and care.
Diagnosing the Issue
When an electric stapler stops working, it’s important to find the cause. Let’s look at some common problems and how to spot them.
Identifying the Type and Size of Staples
Electric staplers need the right staples to work well. Check your stapler’s manual to find out what kind it uses.
Common staple sizes:
- 1/4 inch (6mm)
- 3/8 inch (10mm)
- 1/2 inch (12mm)
Look at the staples in your stapler. Make sure they match what the manual says. If they don’t fit, the stapler won’t work right.
Wrong staples can jam the machine. They might be too big or too small. This can break your stapler.
Inspecting for Visible Damage or Jam
Take a close look at your stapler. Check for any signs of damage.
Things to look for:
- Cracks in the body
- Loose parts
- Bent metal pieces
Open the stapler. Look inside for jammed staples. Use pliers to remove any stuck ones.
Clean out any dust or paper bits. These can stop the stapler from working. A small brush can help with this task.
Checking the Power Source and Settings
Make sure your stapler has power. For plug-in models, check the cord. Look for any cuts or frays.
Power checklist:
- Is it plugged in?
- Does the outlet work?
- Is the battery charged? (for cordless models)
Look at the settings on your stapler. Some have different modes for stapling depth. Make sure it’s set right for your paper.
If it still doesn’t work, try resetting it. Unplug it or take out the battery for a minute. Then plug it back in or put the battery back.
Repair and Maintenance Procedures
Fixing an electric stapler often involves simple steps. Here are some key ways to get your stapler working again.
Clearing Staple Jams and Cleaning the Magazine
Staple jams are a common issue. To fix this, unplug the stapler first. Open it up and take out any staples you can see. Look for bent staples that might be blocking the path. Use needle-nose pliers to remove these.
Clean the magazine next. Use a soft brush to sweep away dust and bits of paper. For tough grime, try a damp cloth. Make sure to dry it well after.
Sometimes staples get stuck in the ejection area. Gently pry these out with tweezers. Be careful not to scratch any parts.
Lubricating and Replacing Worn Parts
Lubrication keeps your stapler running smoothly. Put a few drops of machine oil on moving parts. This helps prevent rust too.
Check for worn-out parts. The spring is often the first to go. If it’s weak, the stapler won’t work right. You can replace the spring yourself in many cases.
Look at the pusher mechanism. If it’s bent or broken, you’ll need to replace it. Some staplers let you swap out parts easily.
Adjusting or Realigning the Staple Feed Mechanism
If staples aren’t feeding right, the mechanism might be off. Check if the feed track is straight. Gently bend it back if it’s crooked.
The pusher spring might need adjusting. If it’s too loose, staples won’t feed. Too tight, and they’ll jam. Find the right tension through trial and error.
Make sure the magazine is seated correctly. A slight misalignment can cause big problems. Take it out and put it back in carefully.
If the trigger feels off, it might need adjusting. Some staplers have screws to tighten the trigger mechanism. Don’t over-tighten, or it might break.
Frequently Asked Questions
Electric staplers can stop working for many reasons. These include jams, broken parts, and power issues. Here are some common questions and fixes.
What steps can be taken to troubleshoot a jammed electric stapler?
- Unplug the stapler.
- Open the stapler.
- Take out any stuck staples.
- Check for bent staples blocking the path.
- Remove jammed staples with pliers.
- Close the stapler.
- Plug it back in and test.
How do you repair an electric stapler that won’t staple?
First check if it has power. Make sure it’s plugged in. Then look for loose wires. Clean out any dirt or dust inside. Check if the staples are loaded right. If these don’t work it may need new parts.
What should I do if my electric staple gun has stopped working?
Check the power source first. Make sure it’s plugged in. Look for any loose cords. Next check for jams. Open the gun and clear out any stuck staples. If these don’t fix it call customer service.
How can a dislodged spring in an electric stapler be fixed?
This is tricky to fix at home. It’s best to call a pro. But if you want to try:
- Open the stapler.
- Find the loose spring.
- Put it back in place with tweezers.
- Close the stapler and test.
If this doesn’t work seek expert help.
Why might an electric stapler stop functioning even without a jam?
Several things can cause this:
- Dead motor
- Broken gears
- Loose wires
- Worn out parts
- Power supply issues
Check the power first. Then look for loose parts. If you can’t find the problem call a repair service.
What are common issues in Bostitch electric staplers and how can they be resolved?
Bostitch staplers can have these problems:
- Jams – Clear out stuck staples.
- No power – Check the cord and outlet.
- Won’t feed staples – Clean the feed mechanism.
- Skipping staples – Adjust the depth setting.
- Strange noises – Look for loose parts.
For tough issues call Bostitch customer service at 1-800-343-9329.
