How to Replace Paper in Your Thermal Receipt Printer (Step-by-Step)

kenrod2
May 8
2 min read

Black receipt printer with receipt printed, placed on a wooden table. Two white paper rolls beside it. Blurred indoor background.

If your receipt printer suddenly stops printing, chances are you’ve run out of paper. Replacing the paper roll in a thermal receipt printer is quick and easy—but doing it the wrong way can cause jams or faded prints. In this post, we’ll walk you through the exact steps to replace the paper roll properly, so you can get back to business without delay.

What You’ll Need

A new thermal paper roll (make sure it’s the right size for your printer)
Clean hands or gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints on the thermal side

Step-by-Step: Replacing the Paper Roll

Step 1: Open the Printer Cover

Most receipt printers have a latch or release button. Gently lift the cover to reveal the paper compartment.

Step 2: Remove the Empty Roll (If Present)

Take out the old roll and clear any leftover paper or dust from the compartment. It’s a good idea to give it a quick clean while you’re in there.

Step 3: Check the Roll Direction

Thermal printers only print on one side of the paper. Usually this will be the external part of the roll, but if you are not sure you can always check it by scratching the paper lightly with your fingernail—the side that shows a mark is the thermal side. That side should face front from the printer.

Open black receipt printer on a gray surface, showing a roll of white paper being adjusted by a hand.

Step 4: Insert the New Roll

Place the roll inside the compartment, making sure the paper feeds from the bottom of the roll and out toward the front of the printer.

Step 5: Pull a Small Section of Paper Out

Leave about 2–3 inches of paper sticking out before closing the cover. This ensures the printer can grab and feed the paper smoothly.

Step 6: Close the Printer Cover

Snap the lid back into place. You should hear a light click when it’s locked. The paper should now be visible and ready to print.

Step 7: Run a Test Print (Optional but Recommended)

If your printer has a “Feed” or “Test” button, press it to confirm the paper is loaded correctly and the thermal side is printing as expected.

Need Supplies?

POS systems and receipt printer on blue gradient background. Text: "Everything You Need to Keep Your Sales Running Smoothly!" Ken-Rod Office Equipment.

Kenrod carries a full range of thermal receipt printers and receipt paper rolls compatible with popular models. If you’re unsure about sizing or compatibility, we’re happy to help!

📍 Available in Langley – delivery across Canada

📞 Call us at (604) 530-0794 or visit get a quote online