Knowing when your toy crane machine is running low on prizes is crucial for maintaining player engagement and maximizing profits. There are several clear indicators that can alert you to low prize levels before they become problematic.

The most obvious sign is visual confirmation. When you can easily see the bottom of the prize compartment or notice significant empty spaces between toys, it's time for a refill. Regular visual checks should be part of your maintenance routine.

Another telltale sign is changes in gameplay mechanics. If the claw appears to drop deeper than usual or moves with less resistance when descending, this often indicates that prize levels have dropped substantially. Similarly, if prizes no longer stack properly or the claw struggles to grab items effectively, these are strong indicators of low inventory.

Player behavior can also signal low prizes. When customers consistently avoid a particular machine or you hear complaints about difficulty winning, it might be because the prize density has decreased. Well-stocked machines typically have tighter prize configurations that make grabbing items easier.

For optimal performance, most operators recommend refilling machines when they reach approximately 30% capacity. This ensures consistent gameplay mechanics and maintains the visual appeal that attracts players. Keeping detailed records of player traffic and prize depletion rates will help you establish a reliable refill schedule tailored to your specific machine and location.

Regular maintenance checks, combined with these observation techniques, will ensure your toy crane machine remains profitable and provides an enjoyable experience for all players.