Troubleshooting

If you have questions about using Aurora paper shredders, the following section includes some of the most frequently asked questions and possible solutions.

Troubleshooting Aurora Paper Shredders

I. The shredder is not operating at all. Nothing happens when the machine is switched over to either Auto or Reverse modes.

1. Make sure that the unit is securely plugged into a working outlet / socket.
2. If you have been continuously shredding for an extended period of time, the unit may have overheated and the thermal protection feature has been activated to shut off the machine. If this happens, switch off the unit for at least 30 minutes/1 hour for it to reset before continuing.
3. While in “Auto” mode, the shredder will not run until paper is inserted into the middle of the feed entry slot. The trigger that activates the shredder is located in the center section of the feed entry slot. If the paper you are shredding is narrow, be sure to feed directly into the center. It is normal for the motor to run for a brief moment when the shredder is switched over to the “Auto” setting. The shredder will only constantly run in the “Reverse” mode.
4. The trigger located in the center of the feed entry slot, which activates the shredder, may be blocked. To clear it, you would need to insert an index card or file folder (i.e. rigid paper or cardstock) in the center of the feed slot and apply force. This will usually clear any paper blocking the activation switch and reset the machine.
5. Make sure the head unit portion of the shredder is correctly seated onto the included wastebasket with the words and icons facing you (please click here to read the Instructions). The head unit is particularly designed to work only with the integrated wastebasket. Shredders are equipped with a safety interlock mechanism, which prevents the unit from working when the head unit is lifted or removed. Located on either the back center, back left or right corners of the basket is a tab or raised strip that matches and fits into a slot on the bottom of the head unit allowing it to operate. If the head unit is lifted, not seated correctly, or accidentally knocked off, the shredder will not operate.
6. If using a plastic bag to line the wastebasket, please remove it since this may be the cause of the shredder to not operate.
7. If your model features a pull-out wastebasket, be sure it is properly pushed in all the way and completely closed. The wastebasket is fitted with a bracket, which acts as a safety interlock mechanism that prevents the shredder from operating when the wastebasket is pulled out or not put back in properly.
8. If your shredder is equipped with the ShredSafe™ feature, be sure not to tilt/push open the cover completely beyond the first preset position. If done so, the safety power cut off feature will be activated and the shredder will be inoperable.

 
II. The shredder runs only in "Rev" mode but not in "Auto" mode.

1. While in “Auto” mode, the shredder will not run until paper is inserted into the middle of the feed entry slot. The trigger that activates the shredder is located in the center section of the feed entry slot. If the paper you are shredding is narrow, be sure to feed directly in the center. It is normal for the motor to run for a brief moment when the shredder is switched over to the “Auto” setting. The shredder will only constantly run in the “Reverse” mode.
2. The trigger located in the center of the feed entry slot, which activates the shredder may be blocked. To clear it, you would need to insert an index card or file folder (i.e. rigid paper or cardstock) in the center of the feed slot and apply force. This will usually clear any paper blocking the activation switch and reset the machine.

III. The shredder runs in "Auto" mode and does not stop running, even after the paper has completely passed through.

1. The trigger located in the center of the feed entry slot, which activates the shredder may be blocked or obstructed, making the machine think that paper is still being fed. To clear it, you would need to insert an index card or file folder (i.e. rigid paper or cardstock) in the center of the feed slot and apply force. This will usually clear any paper blocking the activation switch.
2. This problem is mainly caused by improper shredding of plastic items, including things with adhesives or gummy substances (i.e. envelopes or labels). To fix this problem, place a several drops of vegetable oil on a piece of paper and run it through. Repeat if necessary. This may loosen the sensor or dislodge any particles obstructing the trigger switch.

IV. The shredder runs in "Auto" mode but does not pull the paper through.

1. It is likely due to a badly worn or damaged gear that drives the cutting blades. Improper shredding of cellophane window envelopes or items with glued surfaces is the main cause of this problem. The slight heat the machine generates can melt and adhere the thin plastics onto the gears, which prevents efficiency and promotes damage.
2. The shredder is not operating properly. If available, replacement parts may be directly purchased by contacting our Customer Service department. If the unit is currently under the limited product warranty, replacement parts will be supplied at no charge, or if applies, a new shredder will be offered.