Whether you’re a new owner or a long-time collector, one thing is certain: pinball machines require care. They’re complex, mechanical, and loaded with moving parts—and with the right maintenance, they can last a lifetime.
At House of Pinball, we’ve helped thousands of customers not just buy, but own their machines with confidence. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about keeping your machine in game-ready condition, avoiding common issues, and knowing when it’s time for expert help.
If you’re currently browsing for a pinball machine for sale, this article will also help you choose a machine that’s easy to maintain.
🕹️ Why Maintenance Matters More Than You Think
Pinball machines are not like modern gaming consoles. They have:
- ⚙️ Physical moving parts (flippers, bumpers, motors)
- 💡 Electrical components (switches, lights, PCBs)
- 🧼 Surfaces that wear over time (playfield, rubbers, decals)
Without proper maintenance, your game can go from fun to frustrating fast.
🧰 1. Routine Pinball Machine Maintenance Checklist
Here’s what every pinball owner should do regularly to prevent issues and prolong their machine’s lifespan.
🗓️ Weekly or After Every Few Sessions:
- Wipe the playfield glass with a microfiber cloth
- Clean the flipper buttons (oils from fingers build up)
- Check for loose balls or screws inside the cabinet
- Make sure all bulbs and coils are working
🗓️ Monthly:
- Clean the playfield with Novus 1 or a pinball-safe cleaner
- Inspect rubber rings for cracks or brittleness
- Check for ball trails or wear spots
- Tighten leg bolts and level the machine for optimal gameplay
🗓️ Quarterly:
- Wax the playfield to reduce friction and protect the artwork
- Check flipper strength—weak flippers mean worn coils or sleeves
- Clean under plastics where dust collects
🛠️ Pro Tip: Always power off your machine before doing any cleaning or adjustments.
🔎 2. Common Pinball Problems & Easy Fixes
Here are a few common issues and how to approach them.
| Problem | Likely Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| 🎯 Ball gets stuck | Broken switch or stuck plastic | Free the ball, inspect nearby parts |
| 🔇 No sound | Audio board issue or loose cable | Check volume, cables, fuses |
| 💡 Lights out | Burnt bulb or bad connection | Replace bulb, reseat connector |
| 🕹️ Weak flippers | Worn coil sleeve or EOS switch | Replace or clean flipper parts |
| 🔥 Fuse blows often | Short circuit | Inspect wiring, replace fuse with same rating |
⚠️ If you’re not comfortable with electronics, it’s best to contact a qualified repair tech—or buy from a dealer like House of Pinball that offers post-sale support.
🧠 3. Preventative Maintenance Tips
Preventing damage is better (and cheaper) than fixing it. Here’s how:
- ✅ Use a surge protector to protect boards from power spikes
- ✅ Avoid high humidity—moisture warps wood and rusts parts
- ✅ Keep drinks and food away from the machine
- ✅ Replace balls every 6-12 months (old balls scratch the playfield)
- ✅ Lift the playfield carefully to avoid pinching wires
🔧 4. DIY vs. Pro Repairs: When to Call in the Experts
Some issues are easy fixes; others need expert hands.
✅ Safe for DIY:
- Bulb replacements
- Rubber ring replacement
- Playfield cleaning and waxing
- Flipper rebuild kits (if you’re mechanically inclined)
❌ Call a Technician For:
- Circuit board work or blown transistors
- Power supply issues
- Sound or display board replacements
- Wiring repairs
💡 If you’re buying a used pinball machine for sale, ask whether it’s been recently serviced and what parts were replaced. At House of Pinball, every machine is fully tested, cleaned, and comes with a warranty.
🛒 5. Choosing a Low-Maintenance Machine (for First-Time Buyers)
Not all pinball machines are created equal. If you’re new to the hobby and don’t want to spend hours under the glass, look for:
| Feature | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| ✅ Solid-state machines (post-1977) | Easier to maintain than electro-mechanical machines |
| ✅ LED lighting upgrades | Longer life, less heat, fewer burnouts |
| ✅ Modern Stern or Jersey Jack titles | Better part availability and manuals |
| ✅ Refurbished by a reputable dealer | Less risk of breakdowns out of the box |
🏆 House of Pinball: Service You Can Count On
At House of Pinball, we do more than sell. We make sure every customer is set up for success.
When you buy from us, you get:
- ✔️ Machines that are professionally cleaned, serviced, and tested
- ✔️ Warranty coverage on parts and labor (30–90 days)
- ✔️ Email and phone support for troubleshooting
- ✔️ Access to replacement parts and upgrade kits
- ✔️ Nationwide shipping with expert packing
🎯 Final Thoughts: Own with Confidence, Play with Joy
A pinball machine isn’t just a game—it’s an experience. With regular care and the right knowledge, it can be the centerpiece of your home or game room for decades.
🔧 Need help picking a low-maintenance machine?
🎯 Browse our best pinball machines for sale now →