Resources
Vending Machine Guides for Victorian Workplaces
Running costs, space requirements, product ranging and the questions facility managers ask most.
The short answer
A refrigerated workplace vending machine uses about 1.2–2.5 kWh per day (roughly $0.35–$0.80 in electricity), needs about one square metre of floor space and a standard 240V 10A outlet, and under a free placement agreement costs the host site nothing beyond that power draw.
Vending machine power consumption and running costs
Figures below are indicative daily ranges for late-model machines with LED lighting and energy-saving modes, based on typical Victorian commercial electricity rates of around 30c/kWh.
| Machine type | Typical draw | Daily consumption | Indicative daily cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated drink machine | 300–600W compressor cycling | 2.0–3.5 kWh | ~$0.60–$1.10 per day |
| Snack & drink combo | 250–500W compressor cycling | 1.2–2.5 kWh | ~$0.35–$0.80 per day |
| Snack only (ambient) | 60–120W (lighting & controller) | 0.3–0.8 kWh | ~$0.10–$0.25 per day |
| PPE / safety machine | 80–150W | 0.4–1.0 kWh | ~$0.12–$0.30 per day |
Frequently asked questions
How much power does a vending machine use in a Melbourne workplace?
A refrigerated combo vending machine typically uses 1.2–2.5 kWh per day, roughly $0.35–$0.80 at average Victorian commercial electricity rates. Ambient snack-only machines use far less, around 0.3–0.8 kWh per day. Modern machines use LED lighting and energy-saving modes that idle the compressor and dim lighting outside business hours.
How much space does a vending machine need?
Allow approximately one square metre: about 1830mm high, 1000mm wide and 900mm deep, plus 100mm clearance behind for airflow and enough front clearance for the door to open fully. Trolley access is needed for delivery and restocking.
Who pays for the electricity?
The host site supplies power from a standard 240V outlet. Running cost is typically under $1 per day for a refrigerated machine and less for ambient snack machines.
Can we stock healthy-only products?
Yes. You approve the planogram. Common healthy-first ranges include water, sparkling water, low-sugar drinks, nuts, protein bars, muesli bars and baked snacks. Ranges can be reviewed at any time based on sales data.
What happens if the machine breaks down or takes someone's money?
Report the fault by phone and our local operator attends. Refunds for failed vends are handled by the operator, and cashless transactions can be reversed from the payment records.
How does free vending machine placement work in Melbourne workplaces?
It is a $0 COST hire. There is no purchase price, lease, rental or service fee. We deliver, install, restock and fully maintain modern snack, drink or smart vending machines at your office, warehouse or facility at zero expense to your business.
Do your vending machines support modern cashless and tap-and-go payments?
Yes. All our modern workplace vending machines feature built-in contactless card readers supporting Apple Pay, Google Pay, Visa and Mastercard for instant, frictionless transactions.
What types of businesses qualify for a $0 COST free machine hire?
Any Melbourne workplace, office, warehouse, hospital, school or fitness centre with steady daily traffic. As a guide we look for 30+ staff on site or 50+ daily visitors, though smaller sites in shared buildings often qualify too.
How much does it cost to hire a vending machine?
Nothing. It is a $0 COST hire — placement, delivery, installation, restocking and servicing are all free to your business. You provide the floor space and a standard 240V power outlet, and your team only pays for what they buy.
Which parts of Melbourne do you cover?
All of greater Melbourne and regional Victoria — the CBD, Docklands, Southbank, Richmond and Cremorne, the south-east through Clayton, Mulgrave, Moorabbin and Dandenong South, the west through Footscray, Sunshine, Laverton, Truganina, Werribee and Melton, the north through Preston, Campbellfield, Tullamarine and Craigieburn, plus Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo.
Ready for a $0 COST vending machine hire at your site?
Tell us your location, staff numbers and what your team wants stocked in a $0 COST hire vending machine of your choice, with your product choices to keep everyone happy. We'll confirm the right machine and book installation — at no cost to your business. That's how $0 COST hire works: machine sales pay for the placement and the vending service.