FAQ

All Paper Shredders need shredder oil to continue to function properly and maintain the maximum capacity. It is very common for paper dust to build up inside of the cutting assembly. After time, this sediment can become packed together like cement. Oil serves to soften this packed dust, which allows the movement of the cutting head. The proper movement of this head will push the dust out of the paper shredder. The finer the cut the paper shredder makes, the more oil it will need. 

How to oil your paper shredder

Proper shredder maintenance is recommended by all paper shredder manufacturers to maintain warranty coverage. The most important thing you need to do is keep your machine oiled.

The frequency of shredder oil applications is determined by the type of shredder you have. First of all cross cut shredders must be oiled more often than strip cut shredders do. A cross cut paper shredder will require regular applications of shredder oil while a strip cut can go for a longer period of time without decreased performance. Secondly, paper shredders that are used more will need more lubrication. A paper shredder under heavy usage will need to be oiled about every half hour of constant use, while one under normal use will only require oil every few days. Most manufacturers recommend oiling the cutters once every 30 minutes of accumulative shredding, some makes now come with an indicator when this is required.

Directions
You should only use specifically designed shredder oil to oil your paper shredder. This oil is designed to lubricate precision heat treated shredder cylinders, and any other lubricant or oil will void the manufacturers warranty.

Shredder oil can come in both bottles and aerosol varieties.

The first way to oil your shredder is to spray or squirt lubricant into the opening and onto the cutting heads. The oil is packaged in a squeeze bottle and is applied directly onto the cutting head in a fine stream, make sure you first turn the machine off. Once done leave for about 30 seconds then turn the machine on and run in reverse for about 10-15 seconds to allow the oil to transfer to all parts of the cutting head. The final step is to shred a few sheets of paper to remove any excess oil.

The other, and perhaps most common, way to oil your paper shredder is illustrated in the image above. Simply spread a small amount of shredder oil onto a piece of paper in a zig-zag type motion. Make sure that you spread the oil over the entire sheet. Feed this sheet through the shredder and then operate the machine in the reverse mode for a few seconds. This will make sure the oil is dispersed throughout the shredders cutting cylinders.

Don't forget this just oils the cutters the machine still needs to have a full service every six months to ensure all,the drive gears are lubricated and greased as well.

Most jams can be simply backed out with the reverse button, while more stubborn jams may require the assistance while reversing it out.

If you have jammed your shredder so bad that you can no longer back out the paper, don't worry because there is a solution. Most paper jams are caused by improper use or over feeding of your paper shredder. Proper maintenance can prevent jams and keep your paper shredder in prime running condition.Please call us for more information on 0844 8000840

With any type of shredder you can use the same technique:
Soak the jammed paper with some shredder oil and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Once it is completely saturated try to run the paper through again in both forwards and reverse. For the most part, this technique is going to clear most jams. However; if the shredder still doesn't budge you probably have a more serious problem,Please contact us for more information.

SRS are the authorised main UK service agents for Swordfish, Dahle and Kobra. Being the main service agents in the UK we carry most parts you need when you need them. We also have a limited stock or can obtain parts for other makes of shredder we just need the full model and serial number. For enquiries about specific parts please call our sales team on 0844 8000 840 to check for availability. Buying paper shredder parts and performing repairs can save you a lot of money. We also give free in-house estimates on the repairs . If your paper shredder is beyond repair and no amount of parts will bring it back to life, you will always find the great prices on our new paper shredders at SRS.

Having trouble installing your new shredder parts?
SRS technicians are trained in all aspects of paper shredder repair, we have over 20 years experience in on-site and in-house repairs. If you are having trouble, SRS may be able to provide technical support to alleviate your difficulties with installing your shredder parts. In some cases we can have a technician come out to your location if the need arises for a call out fee please ring for details.