Your basic commercial office shredder is designed to last seven to ten years. Ongoing maintenance of these units typically includes oiling the cutting assembly to reduce friction, removing dust that builds up in the blades, and replacing bags as they fill. It is also important that the shredder not be continually used at its maximum paper capacity.

Personal models are really not designed to be repaired. If a model breaks down while under warranty, the manufacturer will usually send a replacement model rather than pick it up for repair. To minimize the likelihood of breakdown, it's important that the shredder not be used for more than 10-15 minutes at a time and that the recommended paper capacity not be exceeded.