Keeping arcade machines profitable requires minimizing maintenance expenses. The most common and effective methods for reducing these costs involve a proactive approach focused on prevention and smart management. Firstly, implementing a strict and regular cleaning schedule is paramount. Dust and debris are primary enemies of electronic components. Regularly cleaning the cabinet exterior, control panels, coin mechanisms, and internal boards with compressed air prevents buildup that can lead to overheating and electrical shorts. Secondly, proactive preventative maintenance is far cheaper than reactive repairs. This includes visually inspecting wiring for fraying or damage, ensuring all connections are secure, and checking for loose components. Periodically lubricating mechanical parts like joysticks and trackballs prevents wear and tear. Thirdly, proper power management is crucial. Using a high-quality surge protector for each machine safeguards sensitive electronics from voltage spikes that can instantly destroy circuit boards. An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) can also prevent damage from sudden power outages. Fourthly, source replacement parts wisely. Instead of buying expensive new components, consider reliable used or refurbished parts from reputable suppliers for non-critical items. Building a small inventory of common, failure-prone parts like fuses, buttons, and joystick modules allows for quicker, cheaper fixes and reduces machine downtime. Finally, invest in basic technician training for staff. Empowering employees to perform simple tasks like cleaning, bulb replacement, and basic troubleshooting can save significant money on service calls. By combining consistent cleaning, preventative checks, stable power, smart sourcing, and basic in-house skills, arcade operators can dramatically cut maintenance costs and maximize their revenue.