A self-service vending machine needs a short routine each week: check power and the screen, test a payment, restock and check expiry or levels, wipe the outside, look at the sales and fault record, and note what you did. Anything inside the machine, or any repeated fault, goes to your supplier or support plan rather than a DIY fix.
What should you check on the machine each week?
Start with what a customer sees. Is the machine on, is the plug seated firmly in the power point, and does the screen respond to a touch? Is the cable clear of foot traffic? Then run one real payment test, such as a QR code payment, so you know customers are not being turned away.
How do you keep stock under control?
Count what is left and compare it with how fast it sells, so you restock before it runs out. For AI Printbox the stock is phone cases; for Topi Express it is the disinfectant liquid. AIVS supplies stock to owners at cost price, and the Topi Express disinfectant top-up is included in the support plan. Check dates on anything that expires and rotate older stock to the front.
What needs cleaning?
Wipe the screen, the outside panels and any glass with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner that is safe for screens, and clear dust and litter from around the machine. A clean, bright machine looks cared for and gets used more. Do not spray liquid into vents, seams or the payment reader.
What should you look at in the sales and fault record?
Look at the week's sales and any error messages. A sudden drop to zero, or the same error repeating, usually means a problem to report, not one to wait out. AIVS support includes a live dashboard for owners, so you can spot this between visits.
When should you call support instead?
Call for any fault you cannot clear by restarting as instructed, for a damaged part, for a payment reader that keeps failing, or when the machine will not power on. Owners on the AIVS plan get maintenance and repairs under the monthly support, system and software support, and 24/7 technical help by phone or WhatsApp. Read what the support plan covers, and how owning a machine works for the other running costs.
Why keep a simple log?
Write the date, what you checked, what you restocked and any fault, even in a phone note. It helps support find a pattern, shows a host that the machine is looked after, and tells you how much stock a site really uses. See also what to check before you buy a machine.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a self-service vending machine be checked?
At least once a week in person, plus a quick look at its sales and error alerts between visits. A busier site, such as a mall, may need more frequent restocking.
Can I open the machine and repair it myself?
Do not open internal parts unless you have been trained to. Report faults to your supplier or support provider, and keep the machine plugged in and the screen clean in the meantime.
What does the AIVS support plan cover?
Maintenance and repairs under the monthly maintenance support, system and software support, and 24/7 technical help by phone or WhatsApp. For Topi Express it also covers disinfectant top-ups. It starts from S$99 a month.
The machines
AI PrintboxA self-service machine that prints a customer's own photo or a design onto a phone case in about 3 minutes. 14 machines in Singapore malls and Changi Airport.From S$5,000 · More details →
Topi ExpressA plug-in machine that disinfects, deodorises and sterilises a motorcycle helmet in 5 minutes for S$5. Built for motorcycle shops, petrol kiosks and detailing centres.From S$1,800 · More details →