How to Fix ADF Paper Jams on the Epson WF-7720 During Duplex Scanning

Question:

I’m having trouble with the scanner on my Epson WF-7720, specifically the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF). It frequently jams, especially when I try duplex scanning or ffeedingmultiple sheets. The printer whas beenin storage for two years, so II wonderif it’s a hardware issue. Do you have any suggestions for troubleshooting this?


Answer:

1. Check the Pickup and Separation Rollers

The ADF depends on rubber rollers to feed one sheet at a time. After two years in storage, these rollers may have:

  • Hardened due to rubber aging

  • Become glazed (slippery)

  • Accumulated dust, paper fiber, or humidity

Fix:
Clean the rollers using a lint-free cloth dampened with 90% or higher isopropyl alcohol. Roll them manually as you clean to ensure full coverage. If cleaning doesn’t restore traction, you may need to replace the ADF rollers, which are relatively inexpensive and easy to swap.


2. Examine the ADF Pad Assembly

The separation pad ensures only one sheet enters the scanner at a time. When worn, it can allow multiple pages to feed together—this issue is especially common during duplex (double-sided) scanning.

Fix:
Inspect the pad for wear. If it looks shiny, smooth, or flattened, it’s likely due for replacement. You can also try temporarily restoring its grip by gently roughing the surface with fine sandpaper (600+ grit), but replacement is the better long-term solution.


3. Inspect for Obstructions or Jammed Sensor Flags

Debris such as dust, paper scraps, or even dead insects can cause jams or false feed errors. Duplex scanning uses more of the paper path, increasing the chance of blockage.

Fix:
Open the ADF and carefully inspect the entire paper path, especially the return loop used during duplex scanning. Check that all sensor flags and movable parts spring back freely and aren’t sticking.


4. Adjust Paper Stack Size and Quality

Moisture-absorbed or curled paper can cause jams. Older paper stored with the printer may be contributing to the issue.

Fix:
Use clean, flat, and fresh paper. Fan the pages to reduce static cling and make sure they’re properly aligned in the ADF tray. Try feeding just one or two sheets to see if the problem improves. If it does, the issue may be related to overloading or paper condition.


5. Update Firmware and Perform Calibration

Sometimes firmware bugs or miscalibrated settings can cause or exaggerate feeding problems in the ADF.

Fix:
Check the Epson Support website for firmware updates specific to the WF-7720. Also, go to the printer’s Setup or Maintenance menu to perform an ADF calibration, if available.


When to Replace Parts

After long storage periods—even without use—rubber and mechanical components inside the ADF can degrade. If your cleaning efforts don’t help, it’s probably time to replace the ADF roller kit or separation pad assembly. These parts are affordable and can significantly improve feeding reliability.


Handling printer repairs and scanner feed issues can be tricky because they often require hands-on inspection. For that reason, we don’t offer remote troubleshooting or one-on-one technical support. However, we do provide in-person printer diagnostic and repair services at our local repair center. You can learn more and schedule a drop-off through our Printer Repair Service page (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis and there may be a wait of a few weeks. We also understand that our repair rates may not be the most affordable, so we strongly encourage self-guided troubleshooting when possible.

You can begin by visiting our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon on the right side of the menu bar to look for content specific to the WF-7720 or ADF issues. With hundreds of videos published over the last nine years, this is the fastest way to find help—and you might even discover relevant videos from other creators recommended by YouTube.

Thanks again for your question and your kind words about our videos. We hope this helps you get your ADF back in working order! Feel free to reach out again if you have any further issues or want to share what worked for you.