Heat works with humidity to damage paper. Heat causes the moisture in paper to evaporate, while cold causes it to
condense on the sheets. Heating systems and air conditioners remove most of the humidity from a room. As paper is
opened and used, it loses moisture, causing streaks and smudging. Humid weather or water coolers can cause the
humidity to increase in a room. As paper is opened and used, it absorbs any excess moisture causing light print and
dropouts. Also, as paper loses and gains moisture, it can become distorted. This can cause paper jams.
Care should be taken not to purchase more paper than can be used in a short time (about 3 months). Paper stored for
long periods may experience heat and moisture extremes, which can cause damage. Planning is important to prevent
damage to large supplies of paper.
Unopened paper in sealed reams can remain stable for several months before use. Opened packages of paper have more
potential for environment damage, especially
if they are not wrapped with a moisture-proof barrier
.
The paper storage environment should be properly maintained to ensure optimum performance. The required condition is
20° C to 24° C (68° F to 75° F) with a relative humidity of 4 percent to 55 percent. The following guidelines should be
considered when evaluating the paper's storage environment:
Paper should be stored at or near room temperature.
The air should not be too dry or too humid.
The best way to store an opened ream of paper is to rewrap it tightly in its moisture-proof wrapping.
If the printer
environment is subject to extremes,
unwrap only the amount of paper to be used during the day's operation to
prevent unwanted moisture changes.
