How To Fix Brother Printer 'Drum Error': A Comprehensive Guide

Encountering a 'Drum Error' on your Brother printer can be frustrating, especially when you need to print important documents. This error usually indicates that there is an issue with the drum unit, which is a crucial component responsible for transferring toner to paper. In this blog post, we'll explain what the 'Drum Error' means, why it occurs, and provide you with detailed steps to fix it.

Understanding Brother Printer 'Drum Error'

The 'Drum Error' message on a Brother printer typically appears when the drum unit needs attention. This could be due to the drum unit nearing the end of its life, being incorrectly installed, or needing cleaning. The drum unit's life is generally around 12,000 to 15,000 pages, depending on the printer model and usage.

Common Causes of 'Drum Error'

1. Worn-Out Drum Unit: Over time, the drum unit wears out and needs to be replaced.
2. Incorrect Installation: The drum unit might not be installed correctly.
3. Dirty Drum Unit: Dust and toner residue can cause errors.
4. Firmware Issues: Outdated firmware can sometimes misinterpret the drum's condition.

Steps to Fix Brother Printer 'Drum Error'

Here are the steps to diagnose and fix the 'Drum Error':

1. Reset the Drum Counter

After replacing the drum unit, you need to reset the drum counter to clear the error message.

1. Open the Front Cover: Make sure the printer is turned on.
2. Press and Hold the ‘OK’ Button: Hold it for about 2 seconds.
3. Reset Confirmation: Press the '1' key to confirm the reset (for models with a numeric keypad) or follow the on-screen instructions for models without a numeric keypad.
4. Close the Front Cover: The error message should disappear if the drum counter reset was successful.

2. Check Drum Unit Installation

Ensure that the drum unit is properly installed.

1. Turn Off the Printer: Unplug the power cord for safety.
2. Open the Front Cover: Carefully remove the toner and drum assembly.
3. Reinstall the Drum Unit: Make sure it clicks into place securely.
4. Insert the Toner Cartridge: Reinsert the toner cartridge into the drum unit.
5. Close the Front Cover: Turn the printer back on and check if the error persists.

3. Clean the Drum Unit

Dirt and toner buildup on the drum unit can cause errors.

1. Turn Off the Printer: Unplug the power cord.
2. Remove the Drum and Toner Assembly: Carefully take it out of the printer.
3. Clean the Drum: Use a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol to gently clean the drum unit.
4. Reinstall the Assembly: Place the drum and toner assembly back into the printer.
5. Turn On the Printer: Check if the error message is cleared.

4. Update Printer Firmware

Outdated firmware can sometimes cause misinterpretation of the drum's condition.

1. Visit Brother's Official Website: Go to the support section.
2. Find Your Printer Model: Download the latest firmware update.
3. Follow Instructions: Install the firmware update as per the provided instructions.

5. Replace the Drum Unit

If the drum unit is near the end of its life or severely damaged, replacing it is necessary.

1. Purchase a New Drum Unit: Make sure it's compatible with your printer model.
2. Turn Off the Printer: Unplug the power cord.
3. Remove the Old Drum Unit: Open the front cover and carefully remove the old drum and toner assembly.
4. Install the New Drum Unit: Insert the new drum unit and reattach the toner cartridge.
5. Reset the Drum Counter: Follow the steps mentioned above to reset the drum counter.

Preventive Measures

To avoid encountering the 'Drum Error' in the future, consider these preventive measures:

• Regular Maintenance: Clean the drum unit and other components periodically.
• Use Genuine Parts: Always use genuine Brother drum units and toner cartridges.
• Firmware Updates: Keep your printer’s firmware updated to the latest version.

Conclusion

The 'Drum Error' on Brother printers can be a hassle, but with the right steps, you can resolve it quickly. Regular maintenance and using genuine parts can help prevent this error from recurring. If you follow the troubleshooting steps outlined above and the error persists, it might be time to contact Brother support for professional assistance.

We hope this guide helps you fix your Brother printer’s 'Drum Error' and get back to printing smoothly.