Advice & Troubleshooting
Clearing a Jam
If paper is not inserted properly into the shredder, or if the sheet capacity is exceeded, a jam may result. The
shredder will automatically stop until the jam is cleared. Move the switch to the REVERSE (REV) position, and
remove the excess paper from the top and pull it out.
TO PREVENT ANY INJURIES, DO NOT PLACE YOUR HANDS OR ANY OTHER OBJECTS NEAR THE FEED OPENING.
Once the paper is cleared, normal shredding operation can resume. If the shredder jams while in REVERSE,
press the switch to the AUTO position and let the shredder run to clear the jammed paper. If the jam does not
clear, slide the switch back and forth between the REV and AUTO until the jam is cleared. If the jam cannot be
cleared following this procedure, unplug the unit and carefully remove the jammed paper manually.
Maintaining your shredder and oiling it regular will help to prevent jamming.
Overheating
Continuous shredding should not last more than 2 minutes, after which the shredder should be allowed
to cool down for 30 minutes before continuing. If your shredder overheats, the unit will automatically shut
off and all functions will cease in order to protect the motor. Simply turn off and unplug the shredder from
the power outlet, allowing enough time for the motor to cool down. The shredder will not resume normal
function until the temperature of the motor cools down to a safe temperature. Then plug the shredder back
into the outlet, turn the unit back on and resume normal operation.
Empty the waste bin frequently to avoid overloading the basket and damaging the cutting mechanism.
Staples and Paperclips
Shredders are designed primarily to shred paper and single credit cards or CDs (as indicated on page 5).
Although Swordfish shredders are safe to shred the occasional standard staple, you should remove them
if possible. Also, industrial or non-standard, large size staples must be removed. Paperclips should not
be shredded at any time, as they significantly reduce the life of the shredder. Please remove staples and
paperclips from paper before shredding.
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