Sometimes a shredder won't run because the electronic "eye" (the sensor that tells the machine paper is present) is blocked by a tiny shred of paper or dust.
Once the jam is cleared, your shredder is vulnerable. The motor is warm, and the blades have been under stress. Perform this quick maintenance to extend the life of the machine: how to unclog paper shredder
For deep jams where paper is wrapped around the blades: Sometimes a shredder won't run because the electronic
If the shredder is jammed but still makes noise, try this before unplugging: Perform this quick maintenance to extend the life
To unclog a paper shredder, the most effective first step is to to ensure safety and prevent further damage . Most minor jams can be cleared using the built-in reverse function , but severe clogs may require manual intervention with tools like tweezers, pliers, and dedicated shredder oil . Step-by-Step Guide to Unclogging a Shredder
If after trying all the above your shredder still won't turn—or it makes a loud grinding noise but the blades don't move—the internal gears may be stripped. Unfortunately, gear repair often costs more than a replacement shredder. At that point, it’s time to recycle the old one and buy a new model.