Tech Tip | Cleaning Thermal Printheads

Why is my label print quality bad?

Grainy or faded print, ribbon wrinkles, and premature printhead failure are all symptoms of dirty printheads. Ribbon debris, environmental debris, and adhesive build up from labels are all causes of dirty printheads. These issues are easily remedied with regular printhead cleaning. For optimal printhead performance, FOX IV recommends cleaning your printhead once per label roll or ribbon roll change, or at least once per shift. If you are operating your label printer applicator in a particularly dirty environment, more frequent cleaning is recommended.

How to Clean your Thermal Printhead

You Will Need:

• Lint-free cloth or swabs
• Thermal printhead cleaning solution.  FOX IV recommends FOX IV Printhead Cleaner or a 90% isopropyl alcohol solution found in our online store.

To Clean Your Printhead:

1. Turn OFF the power to the equipment.
2. Open the printhead.
3. Move or remove the label and ribbon media so that you have full access to the printhead area.
4. Moisten a lint-free cloth or swab with an approved printhead cleaning solution. 
5. Move the cloth or swab across the width of the printhead elements several times until the printhead is clean.**
6. Once the printhead is completely clean, replace the label and ribbon media, then close the printhead.
7. Turn the unit back on.
8. Feed a label or two to reset the label detection sensor.
9. You should now be ready to resume your labeling.

**NOTE: You may have to repeat steps 4 and 5 several times to ensure a clean printhead.

If cleaning the printhead does not resolve your print quality issues, please check for damage to the printhead or printhead wear.