Brother Cooling Down: Machine pausing to cool
✅ Usually fixable yourself
Brother says "Cooling Down" means the inside of the machine is too hot, so it pauses the current print job and goes into cooling mode.
What to try
- Wait until the machine finishes cooling down.
- Make sure all vents on the machine are clear of obstructions.
- Printing resumes on its own once the machine has cooled.
When it needs a technician
Brother lists no service step for this message.
Which models show Cooling Down
Brother documents this code for models including HL-L3280CDW, HL-L8260CDW, HL-L8360CDW, MFC-L3780CDW, MFC-L8610CDW, MFC-L8900CDW, MFC-L8905CDW, HL-L2460DW.
First steps for any printer error
- Write down the exact code before you do anything else — similar-looking codes often mean completely different things.
- Power the printer off, unplug it for a couple of minutes, then power it back on. A surprising number of transient errors clear here.
- Open the covers and check for paper scraps, packaging material, or anything blocking the carriage.
- Check the cartridges or tanks are genuine, correctly seated, and not empty.
- Confirm the printer is plugged directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension lead.
- Check your model’s own manual — codes are model-specific, and the manual is the authority for your machine.
Source: Brother Support FAQ - Cooling Down (MFC-L8900CDW). Codes are model-specific, so your own model's manual is the final word. Reviewed October 2026.
Still showing Cooling Down?
Tell our printer technician your model and what you've tried. You'll find out whether it's fixable at home or worth repairing at all.
Ask about my printer — $1Eric Paul Amora · Printer & Hardware Repair Technician
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