How to open and maintain a Tork paper hand towel dispenser 

Paper hand towel systems are essential to any cleaning and sanitation tasks in your facility, from wiping up spills to keeping proper hand hygiene. So, what’s the key to a smooth operation and keeping up high hygiene standards? It all starts with regular maintenance of your dispensers to ensure paper hand towels are always available for users. Fortunately, Tork paper towel systems are easy to use and uphold. Sharing this simple guide is a great way to help your cleaning and maintenance staff take care of them properly.
 

How to open a Tork paper towel dispenser 

Our paper towel dispensers have two different opening methods, depending on whether you want the dispenser to remain locked while opening. 

1. Key method 

To open your paper towel dispenser while keeping it locked, insert the dispenser key into the unit’s keyhole and turn it clockwise. To close, just turn the key back to its original position.

2. Push button method 

You can also open most Tork paper towel dispensers using the built-in push button method. This will open and unlock the dispenser. Simply insert the key into the dispenser keyhole, turn it counter-clockwise, remove the key, and push in the lock to open.  
 

How to clean a Tork paper towel dispenser 

Paper towel dispensers can sometimes be prone to paper dust, which can cause blockages and other issues, like paper jams. This can lead to wasted product as well as frustrated users who leave the restroom with wet hands and unmet hygiene expectations.
 
As a general rule of thumb, dispensers should be cleaned approximately once a year even if there are no visible paper build-ups. Nonetheless, training your staff to clean them any time they see paper dust accumulating —which is common in high-traffic areas — is a sure way to prevent any issues and the possibility of costly replacements.

Tork paper towel dispenser cleaning guide 

To clean the paper towel dispenser, simply:
  1. Open the dispenser and remove the reem of paper towels. 
  2. Clear any loose paper and dust from the feed assembly. You can do this with a vacuum or a soft microfiber cloth.
  3. Add a mild detergent to the cloth if extra cleaning is needed. Wipe afterwards with a dry paper or microfiber towel if necessary.
  4. Put the paper towels back in and close the dispenser.
  5. Wipe the outside.
 

Tork paper towel dispenser troubleshooting 

If you run into issues with your Tork paper towel dispenser, there are a few simple fixes you can try to resolve them.
 
Be mindful that some of these troubleshooting techniques don’t necessarily apply to every model of Tork paper towel dispenser. So, if they don’t get you too far, scan the QR code on your dispenser with your smartphone to find helpful videos with more specific tips.
 

Problem: Paper towels are not visible in Tork Matic paper hand towel dispenser 

Issue: Paper towels are not properly loaded.
 
Solution: Locate the arrows embossed on the cassette cover to show where the paper should be loaded. Next, make sure the paper towels are placed between the rollers. Then, push the bar to feed through the mechanism.
 
Issue: Towels are loaded properly, but there is a paper jam. 
 
Solution: Open the cassette cover and place your fingers on both sides of the cassette. Then, locate the raised tabs and pull the cover towards you and down. Finally, clear any paper from the dispenser.
 

Problem: The towel is not fully cut or very little of the paper towel is showing 

This is a more common problem in older dispensers or units placed in high-traffic areas. To figure out what’s going on, you need to start by opening the dispenser and checking the following components:
  1. The large spring for the cylinder
  2. The small spring on the paper break arm
If either of these pieces is broken, you’ve likely found the issue. To get your dispenser back up and running, the broken part will need to be changed. Once you have the replacement from your distributor, just follow the instructions in your Tork paper towel dispenser manual.
 

Problem: The dispenser doesn’t work at all 

In the unfortunate instance that your Tork Matic paper towel dispenser falls into complete disrepair, the cassette will need to be replaced. In this case, we recommend getting in touch with the distributor that you purchased the dispenser from so that they can assist you further.
 
The purpose of paper towel dispensers in your facility is to provide a good cleaning and hygiene experience to restroom users and staff alike. The first step is choosing the right products. Tork dispensers are designed to be just as easy to install and use as they are easy to manage, making them a reliable and efficient option for your business. The better your cleaning staff takes care of them, the longer you’ll make the most out of those benefits.
 
 
 
Trying to troubleshoot a toilet paper dispenser too? We’ve got your back with this simple guide. Or are you looking for an innovative, data-driven way to ensure everyone in your facility has access to hygiene products? Learn more about how Tork Vision Cleaning can help.