When you are operating a vending machine business, of course you want it to work well all the time. If it fails, even for just an hour, it can cause inconvenience to you, your customers, and everyone else who wants to use it.
The good news is that instead of wasting money and time on vending machine service and repairs, you can try to fix simple problems on your own. Believe it or not, many vending machine issues can be easily resolved with just a few minor tweaks.
Before calling professional vending machine service providers, here are a few things you can do that actually make a difference:
1. Do a quick power check.
This may sound like an easy thing to do, but many vending machine owners tend to overlook checking the power source. If your vending machine’s power source is problematic, know that it has dollar bill slots, coin mechanisms, and control boards that need power to run. If the circuit gets tripped or if the cord is unplugged, the machine will not operate.
So, make it a habit to check the items first before doing anything. You don’t want to spend a lot of money over unnecessary expenses only to figure out that the connections are only to blame.
2. Clear the money mechanisms.
With daily use, the money mechanisms of these vending machines will get filthy. As bills and coins get into the machine, they will leave dirt and dust, which accumulate over time.
Be sure that you clean the money slots regularly to avoid problems. Use a paper towel or a damp cloth to clean the path. To make it easier for you to clean the coin slot, take the top part out and be sure the path is clear. If you don’t do it, coins might get stuck and purchases might be rejected.
So, how often should you clean the money paths? It is ideal to clean them every time you get the bills and coins. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone.
3. Test the selections to ensure they work.
A typical vending machine dispenses snacks and beverage items. When a snack or drink is selected, it is expected to drop down within seconds. If it doesn’t, then expect one disappointed buyer.
You may ask what seems to be the culprit behind this unacceptable instance. Well, there could be many, but a faulty motor is the most common. Ensure that you test each item selection. Press every motor switch to see if a specific motor is problematic or if there is something wrong with the whole machine itself.
4. Position the machine on an even surface.
Another simple fix to the most common vending machine issues is to position the machine on an even surface. Doing otherwise may disrupt the whole vending process, causing items not to drop down. It might also cause the machine not to give the proper change.
5. Know when to call for help.
If you have tried everything you could but the problem still persists, it’s okay to give up and seek help. Vending machine providers will always be willing to service the machines when needed. They offer almost any type of vending machine service you can think of, be it an issue as simple as a damaged button to a problem that is way beyond your abilities and understanding.
When the time to call for help comes, hands off the issue and leave the problem to professionals. You might be surprised that your vending machine is already up and running sooner than you have imagined.
Other Handy Vending Machine Service Tips
Whether or not you possess a strong mechanical aptitude, considering these vending machine service practices can help keep your machine running efficiently and avoid more serious issues:
- When cleaning your vending machine, use a food-grade detergent, a soft towel, and warm water.
- Position the vending machine at least four inches away from a wall. This way, you can maximise airflow. Overheating is a known issue among vending machines, which usually results in a complete breakdown.
- Be sure you position the machine away from direct sunlight because too much heat can cause unexpected malfunctions.
- Sanitize and wipe all visible surfaces of the machine. Consumers are more likely to buy from a clean machine.
- Know the electrical requirements of the machine. Using the right voltage and polarity will give you the assurance that the correct amount of power flows into it, greatly improving the machine’s longevity.
Vending machine service and repairs can cost a lot of money. The best way to avoid these unnecessary costs is to ensure you observe a regular upkeep and maintenance. Should you have a vending machine business, consider the information above and in the long, you’d be able to maximise your profit!
For your vending machine needs, contact TCN Vending Australia. Let’s talk about your needs and figure out a vending machine solution that works best for you and your business.
