Clogged Nozzle

Also known as: Nozzle Clog, Blocked Nozzle, Jam

beginner Maintenance

When debris or burnt filament blocks the nozzle, preventing proper extrusion.

A clogged nozzle is when debris, burnt filament, or contamination blocks filament flow through the nozzle.

Symptoms

  • Under-extrusion or no extrusion
  • Clicking extruder (motor skipping)
  • Filament not coming out
  • Inconsistent extrusion
  • Thin, wispy strands

Common Causes

  • Burnt filament from high temps
  • Contamination from dirty filament
  • Debris from abrasive filaments
  • PTFE tube degradation
  • Moisture in filament (steaming)
  • Heat creep

Clearing a Clog

Cold Pull (Atomic Pull)

  1. Heat nozzle to printing temp
  2. Push filament through manually
  3. Cool to 90°C (PLA) or 160°C (Nylon)
  4. Pull filament out firmly
  5. Repeat until pulls come out clean

Needle/Acupuncture Method

  1. Heat nozzle
  2. Insert needle from below
  3. Break up debris
  4. Extrude to clear

Complete Disassembly

For stubborn clogs:

  1. Remove nozzle while hot
  2. Burn out debris with torch
  3. Soak in acetone if needed

Prevention

  • Quality filament
  • Proper storage (dry)
  • Correct temperatures
  • Regular nozzle changes
  • Keep filament path clean