Paper jams & curling paper due to high humidity

Copier paper curling due to humidity is a common issue that many people face especially in environments with fluctuating humidity levels. The problem is also very prevalent during periods of high humidity in the summer months.

Paper is sensitive to changes in moisture content, and humidity can affect its dimensions and shape, leading to excessive jamming in your office equipment.

Here are some examples of what paper curl due to high humidity look like:

If you are experiencing excessive paper curl or jamming, high humidity is likely the culprit. To help prevent or mitigate paper curling due to high humidity, consider the following steps:

• Storage: Store paper in a controlled environment with consistent humidity levels. Ideally, maintain a humidity level of around 45-55%, which is considered optimal for paper. Avoid storing paper near windows, vents, or areas with extreme temperature changes.
• Use a Dehumidifier: Depending on your climate and the time of year, you might need to use a dehumidifier to reduce excess moisture in the air
• Protective Packaging: When storing paper, use protective packaging such as resealable bags or plastic containers to minimize its exposure to external humidity changes. Alternatively, keep the paper wrapped until used.
• Quality of Paper: Higher-quality papers are often less susceptible to curling due to their manufacturing processes and composition. Consider using these higher quality papers during periods of high humidity. Sometimes simply moving from a 20lb paper to a 24lb paper makes all the difference

By paying attention to these environmental factors, you can reduce the likelihood of copy paper curling due to humidity and other related conditions. Proper storage and handling practices are key to preserving the quality of your paper and minimizing excessive jamming issues.