Reactive maintenance is a type of maintenance that is carried out in response to a problem or breakdown. It is the opposite of preventive maintenance, which is done to avoid problems from occurring in the first place. Reactive maintenance is often used when the cost of preventive maintenance is too high or when the problem is too difficult to predict. Reactive maintenance can be costly and time-consuming, as it requires the repair of a problem that has already occurred. It is important to note that reactive maintenance should not be used as a substitute for preventive maintenance, as it does not prevent future problems from occurring. Instead, it is best used as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted. Reactive maintenance is best used to quickly address any issues that arise, so that they can be resolved before they become a bigger problem.