Cotton candy vending machines offer an exciting and profitable opportunity, but like any piece of equipment, they are subject to wear and tear. The components most susceptible to breakdowns are the furnace, water pumps, sugar motors, and some of the electrical equipment – although this is heavily dependent on the manufacturer. We know multiple operators who fix their machine weekly due to sourcing from deficient & otherwise negligent manufacturers. Because of such a wide array of quality between providers, the parts that require replacement vary on manufacturer, but there are some general universal parts that need replacing.
Commonly Replaced Parts
For successful operators, it’s important to know that some parts will need replacing regularly. In most cases, you can expect to replace the following parts about once a year:
1. The Furnace: This part is responsible for heating and spinning the sugar onto the cotton candy stick. Due to its constant use, it’s no surprise that the furnace is prone to wear and tear, requiring replacement annually. To increase the life of the furnace, check out our maintenance guide here.
2. Water Pump: The water pump is used to maintain proper humidity within the machines inside cabinet. Each unit of production requires the water pump to be used, so it’s common for operators to replace this component once a year.
3. Sugar Motors: The motors responsible for dispensing the sugar are another high-use component that wears out over time. Expect to replace them once a year.
Diagnosing the Problem: The Hardest Part
While replacing these parts is often straightforward (expect in the event your furnace breaks), diagnosing the problem is where things can get tricky. Most of the time, the challenge lies in correctly identifying which component has failed or is causing the issue. This is where operators must be comfortable working with tools like multimeters to test the functionality & flow of electricity for different areas of the machine.
A multimeter can help you determine if a motor, wire, or another electrical component is faulty. Understanding how to use this tool effectively can save operators a lot of time and help them get the machine back in service quickly.
The Key: Sourcing from the Right Manufacturer
The best way to minimize breakdowns is by sourcing your machine from a reliable manufacturer. If you choose the right machine, with high-quality components, problems will happen, but less frequently. Not all manufacturers are created equal, and the durability of individual parts can vary widely depending on who made the machine. If you are interested in a cotton candy vending machine for your business, but want to avoid to headache of maintaining it, reach out to our sales staff to see if your business qualifies for our turn-key solution.
