Avoid These Common Mistakes That Damage Your Plotter

Plotters are essential tools in architecture, engineering, design, and construction industries. These precision machines are responsible for producing high-quality drawings, blueprints, and large-scale prints. But despite their importance, plotters are often subject to mishandling, neglect, and errors that can significantly shorten their lifespan or degrade output quality.

At Just Repair, we often get service calls for issues that could’ve easily been avoided with a little awareness. If you’re using a plotter at your office or workspace, here are the most common plotter mistakes that users make—and how you can avoid them.

1. Using the Wrong Paper Type or Size

One of the most frequent causes of plotter malfunctions is the use of incorrect or poor-quality paper. Plotters are designed for specific media types, and using incompatible paper can lead to jamming, wrinkling, or image distortion.

Avoid this by:

• Using the manufacturer-recommended paper types (bond paper, coated paper, vellum, etc.).
  
  

• Checking the paper roll’s width and diameter before loading.
  
  

• Storing paper in a clean, dry place to avoid moisture absorption.
  
  

Just Repair Tip: If you’re unsure about which paper works best with your model, our technicians can help you choose the right one based on your usage.

2. Neglecting Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Dust, ink residue, and paper fibers accumulate over time, affecting the plotter’s performance. A dirty plotter can produce streaky or blurry prints and even cause internal damage.

Here’s what you should do:

• Clean the printhead and platen roller regularly.
  
  

• Remove dust and debris using a soft brush or cloth.
  
  

• Schedule professional maintenance every few months.
  
  

At Just Repair, we offer routine maintenance services that include internal cleaning, calibration, and performance checks to keep your plotter running like new.

3. Incorrect Paper Loading

Improper paper loading can cause serious issues like skewed prints, paper jams, or damage to the feed rollers. Some users force the paper in or don’t align it properly with the feed path.

Avoid this by:

• Following your plotter’s paper loading instructions carefully.
  
  

• Ensuring the paper roll is placed correctly and feeding smoothly.
  
  

• Adjusting the alignment guides to match the paper width.
  
  

Even small misalignments can disrupt the print job and cause unnecessary wear and tear on internal components.

4. Using Low-Quality or Non-Genuine Ink

Ink plays a major role in plotter performance. Using cheap or incompatible ink cartridges can clog the nozzles, reduce color accuracy, and damage the printhead.

Best practices:

• Always use high-quality or OEM-recommended ink cartridges.
  
  

• Store cartridges in a cool, dry place to prevent drying or leaking.
  
  

• Never refill cartridges with untested or low-grade ink.
  
  

Just Repair Reminder: We can supply and install compatible, high-quality ink for your plotter to ensure smooth and consistent output without risking internal damage.

5. Ignoring Software and Firmware Updates

Plotters, especially newer models, rely on updated firmware and drivers for optimal functionality. Outdated software can lead to performance bugs, connection issues, and print errors.

Avoid problems by:

• Checking for regular updates from your plotter’s manufacturer.
  
  

• Installing updated drivers on your computer.
  
  

• Letting professionals handle firmware updates if you’re unsure.
  
  

Keeping your plotter’s software current ensures compatibility with new operating systems and avoids unexpected printing glitches.

6. Not Calibrating the Plotter

Calibration ensures that your plotter prints with precision. Skipping calibration leads to misaligned prints, color mismatches, and inconsistent output—especially problematic in industries where accuracy is everything.

To prevent this:

• Calibrate your plotter after installing new ink cartridges or paper rolls.
  
  

• Perform a test print to verify alignment and color accuracy.
  
  

• Use the plotter’s built-in calibration settings or let a technician handle it.
  
  

At Just Repair, we offer expert calibration services to keep your plotter accurate and ready for demanding projects.

7. Overworking the Plotter

Plotters are built for high-precision work, but they also have limits. Running large print jobs back-to-back without rest can overheat the machine, wear out the rollers, and reduce the printhead’s life.

Avoid overworking by:

• Letting the plotter rest between large print runs.
  
  

• Checking the recommended monthly print volume and staying within limits.
  
  

• Using multiple plotters for high-volume workflows.
  
  

Just like any machinery, your plotter performs best when it’s not pushed beyond its design capacity.

8. Forcing Parts or Opening Panels Incorrectly

Plotters have delicate components like printheads, rollers, and sensors. Forcing paper trays, covers, or parts open without care can break hinges, damage sensors, or disrupt internal alignments.

Instead, always:

• Follow the user manual while replacing parts or accessing internal areas.
  
  

• Turn off the machine before opening any panels.
  
  

• Avoid poking or pulling parts unless you know what you’re doing.
  
  

If you face a hardware issue, it’s always safer to call professionals like Just Repair than trying DIY fixes that could make things worse.

9. Letting Ink Dry Out in the Printhead

Plotters left unused for long periods often develop dry ink buildup in the printhead. This clogs the nozzles, reduces print quality, and can cause permanent damage.

Prevent this by:

• Running a test print or cleaning cycle weekly.
  
  

• Keeping the plotter in use if possible.
  
  

• Covering the printhead area if the machine will be idle for long.
  
  

Our experts at Just Repair can professionally clean clogged printheads or replace them if they’ve been damaged due to dry ink.

10. Delaying Professional Repairs

One of the biggest mistakes users make is ignoring small issues—like faint lines, minor jams, or slow print speeds—until they escalate into major problems. By the time we’re called in, the damage may already be extensive.

Avoid this by:

• Addressing issues as soon as you notice them.
  
  

• Scheduling regular maintenance checks.
  
  

• Calling in Just Repair for timely diagnosis and repair.
  
  

We offer fast, on-site service to reduce downtime and prevent small issues from becoming costly replacements.

Final Thoughts

Plotters are high-precision machines that require attention and proper care. By avoiding these common mistakes and staying on top of regular maintenance, you can ensure your plotter runs smoothly for years to come.

At Just Repair, we specialize in plotter repair, maintenance, and part replacements. Whether you use HP, Canon, Epson, or any other brand, our technicians are trained to handle it all. We offer affordable service plans, emergency support, and expert guidance to help you avoid the pitfalls that damage your equipment.

Need help with your plotter? Contact Just Repair today and give your machine the professional care it deserves.